Ah, key lime pie – the classic dessert that never goes out of style. The tangy sweetness of the filling, the crumbly crust, and the burst of citrus flavor all combine to make it a timeless favorite. But why settle for just one way to enjoy this beloved treat when you can mix things up and try new twists on the original? In this article, we’ll explore 18 creamy key lime pie recipes that put a fresh spin on the classic. From no-bake options to vegan variations, cheesecakes to smoothie bowls, and everything in between, there’s something for every key lime lover. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in these delightful desserts!
Classic Key Lime Pie with Graham Cracker Crust
This classic recipe combines the tanginess of key lime juice with the crunch of a graham cracker crust, making it a timeless dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press crust mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, key lime juice, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour filling over baked crust and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until filling is set.
7. Allow pie to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 23-28 minutes
No-Bake Key Lime Pie with Whipped Cream Topping
Brighten up your dessert table with this refreshing no-bake key lime pie, topped with a dollop of whipped cream. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for hot summer days or any occasion when you want to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour filling over crust and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
6. Top with whipped cream before serving.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Key Lime Pie Cheesecake with a Shortbread Crust
This creamy cheesecake combines the tangy sweetness of key lime pie with a buttery shortbread crust, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the Shortbread Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cheesecake:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup key lime juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare the Shortbread Crust: Mix flour, confectioners’ sugar, and butter until a dough forms. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Make the Cheesecake: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by key lime juice and vanilla extract.
4. Pour cheesecake batter over crust.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Key Lime Pie with Coconut Cream
A tangy and creamy vegan twist on a classic dessert, this key lime pie is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a little citrus pick-me-up. This recipe uses coconut cream to add richness and texture without dairy.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
• 1/4 cup vegan graham cracker crumbs (gluten-free)
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 can full-fat coconut milk, chilled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together coconut, maple syrup, key lime juice, and melted coconut oil until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into a pie dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
6. Open the chilled coconut milk can and scoop out the solid coconut cream. Whip with a fork or electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
7. Spread the whipped coconut cream over the cooled pie crust.
8. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Key Lime Pie Bars with Almond Flour Crust
These bite-sized bars combine the brightness of key lime with the nutty flavor of almond flour crust. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, granulated sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the crust mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, egg yolks, key lime juice, and lime zest.
5. Pour the filling over the crust and smooth out.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly browned.
7. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Key Lime Pie Tarts with Meringue
These bite-sized treats are the perfect combination of tangy and sweet, topped with a fluffy meringue crown.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Meringue topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 12 equal squares.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, key lime juice, and salt.
4. Spoon a small amount of the mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold the other half over to form a triangle and press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Meringue Topping:
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over cooled tarts and bake at 400°F (200°C) for an additional 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
Key Lime Pie Ice Cream with a Cookie Swirl
Brighten up your dessert routine with this unique and refreshing Key Lime Pie Ice Cream, swirled with a crumbly cookie mixture. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a taste of sunshine.
Ingredients:
For the ice cream:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup key lime juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the cookie swirl:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the cookie swirl by mixing flour, softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, and chopped pecans (if using) in a small bowl until well combined.
5. Once the ice cream is almost fully churned, add the cookie mixture and continue churning until swirled throughout.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (including churning time)
Key Lime Pie Parfaits with Fresh Berries
Elevate your dessert game with this easy-to-make Key Lime Pie Parfait, layered with fresh berries and crunchy graham cracker crumbs. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick dessert fix.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
– Whipped cream and additional berries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg yolks, sugar, melted butter, Key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour mixture into 4-6 small cups or glasses.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until filling is set.
5. Allow parfaits to cool completely.
6. Layer fresh berries, graham cracker crumbs, and cooled parfait in a glass or cup.
7. Top with whipped cream and additional berries, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Key Lime Pie Dip with Cinnamon Sugar Chips
A tangy and sweet dessert dip perfect for fruit, graham crackers, or even pretzels.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup key lime juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lime zest
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Cinnamon sugar chips (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
3. Gradually add the sugar and mix until combined.
4. Stir in key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
Cinnamon Sugar Chips:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1. Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
2. Cut a piece of parchment paper to fit a baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the parchment paper.
4. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Break into chips.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus chip cooking time)
Key Lime Pie Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Brighten up your dessert menu with these moist and tangy Key Lime Pie Cupcakes, topped with a rich Cream Cheese Frosting. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a unique treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, Key lime juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Combine ingredients and beat until smooth. Spread or pipe onto cooled cupcakes.
Key Lime Pie Smoothie Bowl with Granola
Experience the creamy, tangy goodness of Key lime pie in a refreshing smoothie bowl topped with crunchy granola. This tropical treat is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/2 cup frozen mango
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Granola, for topping
Instructions:
1. Combine pineapple, mango, Greek yogurt, honey, and lime zest in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if desired to achieve the perfect consistency.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl.
4. Top with granola and a drizzle of lime juice.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Key Lime Pie Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
Brighten up any day with this refreshing Key Lime Pie Pudding, served atop crunchy vanilla wafers. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon key lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-16 vanilla wafers
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and melted butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in egg yolks, key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, place a layer of pudding on top of a vanilla wafer, repeat as desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Cook time: 10-12 minutes
– Chill time: 2-8 hours
Key Lime Pie French Toast with Citrus Syrup
Start your day off bright with this tangy and sweet breakfast twist on classic French toast, infused with the flavors of key lime pie.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Challah or brioche work well)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup key lime curd or key lime jam
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
– Citrus Syrup (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
2. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Place coated bread slices on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Drizzle key lime curd or jam and vanilla extract on top of toast.
6. Dust with powdered sugar.
Citrus Syrup:
– Combine equal parts orange juice and honey in a small saucepan.
– Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
– Reduce heat to low and let syrup infuse for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
– Strain syrup before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Key Lime Pie Pancakes with Coconut Whipped Cream
Start your day off right with these sweet and tangy pancakes, infused with the bright flavors of key lime pie. Top them with a dollop of creamy coconut whipped cream for a tropical twist on breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
– Coconut whipped cream (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, key lime juice, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
Coconut Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Whisk heavy cream, coconut, and sugar until stiff peaks form. Top pancakes with whipped cream and serve immediately.
Key Lime Pie Overnight Oats with Chia Seeds
Transform your morning routine with a tangy and refreshing twist on traditional oats. This overnight recipe combines the brightness of key lime with the nutty flavor of chia seeds for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and key lime zest. Stir until well combined.
2. Add chia seeds and stir to distribute evenly.
3. Refrigerate overnight for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours.
4. Top with additional honey, whipped cream, or fresh fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: Overnight (minimum 4 hours)
Key Lime Pie Yogurt Bark with Pistachios
Get ready to treat yourself to a sweet and tangy dessert that’s perfect for warm weather. This Key Lime Pie Yogurt Bark combines the flavors of key lime pie with crunchy pistachios, all on top of a bed of creamy yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons key lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– Lime zest and wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, honey, sugar, key lime juice, and salt until well combined.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to form a thin layer.
4. Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top of the yogurt layer.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
6. Break into pieces and garnish with lime zest and wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is no-bake and ready in under 10 minutes.
Key Lime Pie Popsicles with White Chocolate Drizzle
Beat the heat with these creamy Key Lime Pie Popsicles, topped with a rich white chocolate drizzle. Perfect for hot summer days or as a unique dessert for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– Popsicle sticks and paper cups
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, sugar, and salt until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or paper cups.
3. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
5. Drizzle melted white chocolate over frozen popsicles.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: 4-12 hours (depending on freezing time)
Key Lime Pie Chia Pudding with Almond Milk
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing twist on traditional key lime pie! This chia pudding is a healthier alternative that still packs plenty of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup almond milk
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey or maple syrup, key lime juice, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the chia seed mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the pudding to thicken.
5. Serve chilled and garnish with whipped cream, toasted coconut flakes, or a sprinkle of lime zest.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the tangy and sweet world of key lime pie! This article presents 18 creative recipes that put a twist on the classic dessert. From traditional graham cracker crusts to innovative uses like cheesecake and pancakes, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique flavor combinations like coconut cream and whipped cream, or try your hand at vegan and gluten-free variations. Whether you’re in the mood for a decadent dessert or a refreshing snack, these creamy key lime pie recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!