No-Bake Key Lime Pie Cups

Name: No-Bake Key Lime Pie Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/2 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed is best); 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; Zest of 2 key limes; Whipped cream; Lime slices; Additional lime zest

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

I absolutely love making No-Bake Key Lime Pie Cups when I want a refreshing dessert that’s quick and easy. The bright, zesty flavor of key limes paired with a creamy filling creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, assembling these cups takes just minutes, and the best part is that there’s no oven required! With a graham cracker crust that adds that classic pie flavor, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds of this delicious and tangy dessert.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-18T14:50:19.626Z

When I first attempted to make No-Bake Key Lime Pie Cups, I wasn't sure how it would turn out without baking. To my delight, the texture was perfectly creamy and the flavor was downright refreshing. One tip I learned is to let the cups chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving, as it allows the flavors to marry beautifully.

I've tried various no-bake desserts, but this one stands out for its bright flavor and crisp textures. For an extra twist, I sometimes garnish it with a sprinkle of zest or a slice of lime on top, which not only looks appealing but also enhances the overall taste!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy and tangy filling that bursts with flavor
No baking required, making it a quick and easy dessert
Perfectly portioned for individual servings

Understanding Key Ingredients

The primary flavor in No-Bake Key Lime Pie Cups comes from key lime juice, which is different from regular limes. Key limes are smaller and have a more aromatic, tart flavor that elevates this dessert. If key limes are not available, you can substitute with freshly squeezed regular lime juice, but expect a slightly different taste. Freshly squeezed juice is crucial for achieving the vibrant flavor, so avoid bottled options if you can.

Sweetened condensed milk plays a vital role in achieving the creamy texture of the filling. It adds sweetness and stability, balancing the tartness of the lime juice. If you're looking to reduce the sweetness, you can experiment with low-sugar sweetened condensed milk, though the texture might be slightly less creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can be used as a substitute, lending a rich flavor that complements the lime beautifully.

Perfecting the Crust

Achieving the ideal crust texture is important for the overall dessert experience. When mixing the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar, you want a sandy texture that holds together when pressed. If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of melted butter at a time until it sticks together without being overly wet. Press down firmly to create a solid base; this will prevent the filling from leaking through and maintain the structure during serving.

For a twist on the traditional graham cracker crust, consider adding crushed nuts, such as pecans or almonds for a nutty flavor. Mixing in a quarter cup of finely chopped nuts can add an interesting twist while maintaining that classic crumbly texture. Just remember to adjust the sugar slightly if you're using sweetened nuts to balance the flavors!

Ingredients

To make these delectable cups, gather the following ingredients:

For the Crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup melted butter
2 tablespoons sugar

For the Filling

1/2 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Zest of 2 key limes

For Garnish

Whipped cream
Lime slices
Additional lime zest

Combine these ingredients to create a delightful dessert that will impress your guests!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your No-Bake Key Lime Pie Cups:

Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into each serving cup and press down firmly to form a crust.

Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk until well combined. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the key lime mixture until just combined and smooth.

Assemble the Cups

Spoon the filling over the prepared crust in each cup. Smooth the top with a spatula. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Garnish and Serve

Before serving, top each cup with a dollop of whipped cream, a slice of lime, and a sprinkle of lime zest for a stylish finish!

Enjoy this refreshing dessert on a warm day or whenever you crave something sweet and zesty!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, try adding a splash of coconut cream to the filling. You can also substitute regular limes if key limes are not available.

Serving Suggestions

When it's time to serve, consider presenting your No-Bake Key Lime Pie Cups on a decorative tray to elevate the dessert visually. Arranging them with additional lime slices or edible flowers can create a stunning display. Each cup can also be paired with a small mint leaf for a pop of color, enhancing the refreshing vibe of the dish.

For those who enjoy a little extra flavor, try drizzling a thin layer of raspberry coulis or a fruit puree around the cup before adding your filling. This not only adds a beautiful color contrast but also provides a complementary sweetness that pairs nicely with the tartness of the lime.

Make-Ahead Tips

These key lime pie cups can be made a day in advance, making them an ideal option for parties or family gatherings. After assembling, cover them tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. Just remember to add the garnish, like whipped cream and lime slices, just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

If you need to store leftovers, make sure they are covered well and consumed within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture. Freezing these cups is not recommended, as the texture of the cream can change and become grainy upon thawing. Instead, enjoy them fresh for the best taste experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, regular limes can be used, but the flavor will be slightly different and less tangy.

→ How long can I store the No-Bake Key Lime Pie Cups?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! These cups can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in the fridge until you are ready to serve.

→ Is there a dairy-free alternative for the filling?

Yes, you can use coconut cream combined with sweetened condensed coconut milk for a dairy-free version.