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Heavenly No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies
Introduction
A perfect treat for warm days or when you want to impress guests without firing up the oven, these Heavenly No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies are sweet, tart, and irresistibly creamy. Made with a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with a fluffy, tangy lime filling, this dessert brings the flavors of Florida’s iconic Key Lime Pie into a bite-sized, easy-to-make treat.
You don’t need to worry about turning on the oven, so these pies are ideal for summer get-togethers or when you’re craving something refreshing without much fuss.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
For the Filling:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (Key lime juice, if available)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Lime slices or zest (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, melted butter, and salt (if using). Stir well until the mixture is evenly combined and has a wet sand-like texture.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of mini tart pans or muffin tins, creating a firm, even layer. Use the back of a spoon to compact it.
- Place the crusts in the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes to help them set.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the heavy cream with powdered sugar and a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture, combining it until light and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Pies:
- Once the crusts are chilled and firm, spoon the lime filling into each mini crust, smoothing the tops with a spatula or spoon.
- Chill the mini pies in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is firm.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, garnish each mini pie with a dollop of whipped cream, a lime slice, or a sprinkle of lime zest for an added pop of color and flavor.
History of Key Lime Pie
The Key Lime Pie is one of the most beloved American desserts, and it traces its origins to the Florida Keys, where it’s made with small, tart Key limes native to the area. The pie became popular in the early 20th century, with its exact origins being a bit of a mystery. It’s believed that it was first made by a woman named Aunt Sally, a Key West resident, but there are many competing stories about its creation.
Historically, the filling for the pie was made with sweetened condensed milk, a product that was used due to the lack of refrigeration in the Keys, and the pie’s rise in popularity is tied to the availability of this milk. While traditionally Key Lime Pie is baked, the no-bake version we’ve made here offers a refreshing, cooler twist—perfect for warm climates or summer celebrations.
Methods & Formation
Creating the perfect No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies requires precision in both the crust and filling.
- Crust Formation: The graham cracker crumbs provide a sturdy base, but they must be pressed firmly enough into the pan to prevent crumbling when serving. Using melted butter binds the crumbs together and ensures they hold their shape.
- Filling Formation: The key to achieving the ideal texture is to beat the cream cheese until smooth and combine it with the sweetened condensed milk and lime juice until it’s completely blended. Folding in the whipped cream at the end gives the filling its airy, light texture that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy crust.
Conclusion
These Heavenly No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies are the ultimate summer treat—deliciously tangy, sweet, and oh-so-creamy. The best part? You don’t even need to turn on your oven! Whether you’re looking for a light dessert after a BBQ or a unique treat for a special occasion, these mini pies will surely be a hit. Easy to make, easier to love—serve them chilled, and they’ll be the star of the show.
For the Lovers of Lime:
This dessert is a dream for citrus lovers. The combination of tart Key lime juice and the creamy filling makes each bite burst with flavor. You can get creative by adding other citrus zest or mixing the filling with different fruits like strawberries or mangoes for a tropical twist.
Enjoy! ❤️