I love making these Heavenly No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies when I want a dessert that feels refreshing, creamy, and impressive without turning on the oven. The buttery graham cracker crust paired with a tangy, silky key lime filling always reminds me of warm days and simple, happy moments. These mini pies are easy to assemble, fun to serve, and perfect for sharing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it is completely no-bake, which saves time and keeps my kitchen cool. The balance between sweet and tart is just right, and the creamy texture makes every bite feel indulgent. I also enjoy how versatile these mini pies are, since I can prepare them ahead of time for gatherings or quick desserts during the week.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Directions
I start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar in a bowl, then I pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is evenly coated. I press this mixture firmly into the bottoms of a muffin tin or mini pie cups to form the crust. I place the crusts in the refrigerator to chill while I prepare the filling.
For the filling, I whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth and thick. In a separate bowl, I whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then I gently fold it into the lime mixture. I spoon or pipe the filling over the chilled crusts and smooth the tops.
I refrigerate the mini pies for at least two hours, or until fully set, before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 10 to 12 mini pies from this recipe.
Preparation time is around 20 minutes, and chilling time is about 2 hours, making the total time approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes swap graham crackers for vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a different crust flavor. When I want a stronger citrus taste, I add a little extra lime zest. For a tropical twist, I like topping the pies with toasted coconut or fresh berries.
Storage/Reheating
I store these mini key lime pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since this is a no-bake dessert, I never reheat them. I simply enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I Use Regular Lime Juice Instead Of Key Lime Juice?
I can use regular lime juice if key limes are unavailable, and the pies still taste delicious, though slightly less traditional.
Can I Make These Ahead Of Time?
I often make them a day in advance because they hold their shape well and taste even better once fully chilled.
Do These Mini Pies Freeze Well?
I can freeze them for up to one month, then thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
What Can I Use Instead Of A Muffin Tin?
I sometimes use small dessert cups or ramekins, which work just as well and make serving easy.
How Do I Know When They Are Set?
I know they are ready when the filling feels firm to the touch and holds its shape when gently shaken.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to these Heavenly No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies because they are simple, refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whenever I need a quick yet elegant dessert, this recipe never lets me down.
These Heavenly No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies are a refreshing and creamy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a tangy lime filling. Easy to make, no oven required, and perfect for summer or any occasion.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
Mix graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar in a bowl.
Add melted butter and stir until the mixture is evenly coated.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottoms of a muffin tin or mini pie cups to form the crust.
Chill the crusts in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth and thick.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture.
Spoon or pipe the filling over the chilled crusts and smooth the tops.
Refrigerate the mini pies for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
You can substitute graham crackers with vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for variety.
Extra lime zest intensifies the citrus flavor.
Top with toasted coconut or fresh berries for a tropical twist.