Heavenly No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together effortlessly with no baking required.
• Individual Portions: Perfectly portioned for individual servings, making them ideal for parties or gatherings.
• Bright and Tangy Flavor: The fresh key lime juice gives a delightful tang, balanced by the creamy filling.
• Versatile: Simple ingredients and easy substitutions allow for variations.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These pies need chilling time, so you can prepare them in advance.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• graham cracker crumbs
• granulated sugar
• unsalted butter, melted

For the Key Lime Filling:

• cream cheese, softened
• sweetened condensed milk
• key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
• key lime zest
• vanilla extract
• heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks (or store-bought whipped cream)

For Garnish:

• whipped cream
• thin slices of key lime or lime zest
• graham cracker crumbs (optional)

Directions

For the Crust:

1. Prepare the tin: Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners or use mini tart pans.
2. Make the crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press into liners: Divide the mixture evenly among the cupcake liners or tart pans. Press it firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides using the back of a spoon.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the crusts while preparing the filling.

For the Key Lime Filling:

1. Beat the cream cheese: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add condensed milk and flavorings: Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Fold in whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mixture to create a light texture.
4. Fill the crusts: Spoon the filling evenly into the chilled crusts.

Chill and Serve:

1. Refrigerate: Chill the pies for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
2. Garnish: Before serving, top with whipped cream, key lime slices, or lime zest. Add a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 12 mini pies.
• Prep Time: 20 minutes.
• Chill Time: At least 4 hours (or overnight).

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
• Citrus Swap: Substitute lemon juice and zest for a lemony twist.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut condensed milk, and coconut whipped cream.
• Bite-Sized: Use a mini muffin tin for even smaller portions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the pies (without garnish) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: These pies are served chilled, so reheating is not necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?

Yes, regular lime juice works, though key lime juice has a more distinctive tangy flavor.

2. How far in advance can I make these?

You can make them up to 2 days in advance. Add the garnish just before serving.

3. Can I make this recipe in a single pie dish?

Absolutely! Use a standard pie dish instead of individual servings and follow the same steps.

4. What can I use if I don’t have a muffin tin?

You can use small ramekins or mini tart pans as an alternative.

5. Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?

Cream cheese is key for the texture, but you could try using mascarpone as a substitute.

6. What’s the best way to zest key limes?

Use a microplane zester to get fine zest without the bitter white pith.

7. Can I use a food processor to make the crust?

Yes, a food processor is perfect for combining the graham crackers, sugar, and butter.

8. Do I need to grease the cupcake liners?

No, the butter in the crust prevents sticking.

9. Can I use pre-made graham cracker crusts?

Yes, pre-made mini crusts are a great time-saving option.

10. What if I don’t have whipped cream?

You can substitute store-bought whipped topping or whip your own from heavy cream.

Conclusion

These no-bake mini key lime pies are an effortless and elegant dessert, bursting with zesty citrus flavor and a creamy, smooth filling. They’re perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday gatherings. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly these little pies disappear!

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