These no-bake mini key lime pies are refreshing little treats that are tangy and sweet. With a crumbled graham cracker crust and creamy lime filling, they’re perfect for warm days!
Making these is so easy! I love how they set up in the fridge. Plus, everyone can have their own mini pie, which is just fun! Who can resist that cute little serving?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: The crust gets its flavor from graham cracker crumbs. If you don’t have them, crushed digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafers can work well, too. I like to use flavored options for a twist!
Heavy Whipping Cream: This gives the pies a light, fluffy topping. If you want a lighter version, you can use whipped topping instead. Just be sure to check for sugar added if you’re watching your sweetness.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives the filling its rich texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try using Neufchâtel cheese. It’s a similar flavor but with fewer calories!
Key Lime Juice: Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled juice is convenient and still good. Don’t skip adding lime zest; it gives a nice burst of citrus that elevates the pies.
How Do You Ensure a Smooth Filling?
Getting the filling smooth is crucial for a great pie. Start with softened cream cheese to avoid lumps. Here’s how to succeed:
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Beat it well until creamy and smooth. This builds a good base.
- Add sweetened condensed milk slowly, mixing continuously to keep the mixture smooth.
- Finish with key lime juice and zest, mixing until fully combined.
Taking these steps will help achieve the perfect consistency without any lumps in your filling!
No-Bake Mini Key Lime Pies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- Zest of 1 lime (optional for added flavor)
For The Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- Lime wedges or slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and a minimum of 4 hours to chill. That’s all it takes to create these refreshing mini key lime pies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium-sized bowl. Stir everything together until it looks like wet sand. This will be the base of your mini pies!
2. Create the Crust Base:
Next, grab your mini pie pans or muffin tins and line them with paper liners. Divide the crust mixture evenly among the pans and press it down firmly to form an even layer at the bottom. Pop them in the refrigerator to chill while you work on the filling.
3. Make the Filling:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Then, slowly add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until everything is blended and smooth. Now it’s time to add the key lime juice and lime zest (if you’re using it) and mix until combined.
4. Fill the Crusts:
Take the crusts out of the fridge and carefully fill each one with the key lime filling. Smooth the tops with a spatula to make them look nice. Then, return them to the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 4 hours or until they are set.
5. Whip the Cream:
When your mini pies are ready, whip the heavy cream in a bowl with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This will create a fluffy topping for your pies!
6. Top and Garnish:
Use a piping bag or spoon to dollop the whipped cream over each mini pie. Don’t forget to add a lime wedge or slice on top for a pretty touch before serving.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing no-bake mini key lime pies! They’re perfect for a summer treat or any gathering!
Can I Substitute Different Crackers for the Crust?
Absolutely! If you want to switch things up, you can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers for the crust. Just make sure to adjust the sugar content, as some cookies may be sweeter than graham crackers. Aim for a similar texture when crushing them!
How Can I Make These Mini Pies Gluten-Free?
You can easily make these mini key lime pies gluten-free by using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or an alternative like crushed almond flour cookies. Just check the labels to ensure all other ingredients, like the sweetened condensed milk and topping, are also gluten-free.
Can I Make the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance! Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the pies. Make sure to give it a good stir before pouring it into the crust, as it may thicken a bit while chilling.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Mini Key Lime Pies?
Store any leftover mini key lime pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to wait to add the whipped cream topping until just before serving to keep it fresh and fluffy!
