Description
Key Lime Lush is a refreshing no-bake layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and a tangy key lime topping topped with fluffy whipped cream. This vibrant treat combines sweet and tart flavors perfect for warm days and gatherings.
Ingredients
Crust
- ½ Cup butter
- 2 ½ Cups graham cracker crumbs
- Butter or shortening (for greasing the pan)
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 Ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
- 1 Cup granulated sugar
- ½ Teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 Ounces whipped topping (half of the total 16 ounces, thawed)
Key Lime Layer
- 28 Ounces sweetened condensed milk
- ½ Cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 Teaspoons key lime zest
- ¼ Cup key lime juice
- 8 Ounces whipped topping (remaining half, thawed)
Instructions
- Grease: Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or pan with butter or shortening. Set aside to prepare for the crust.
- Make the Crust – Melt Butter: Melt the butter in a small microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals until fully melted.
- Make the Crust – Combine: In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Make the Crust – Press: Pour the crumb mixture into the prepared baking dish, then firmly press it into an even layer on the bottom using a flat-bottom glass or measuring cup.
- Freeze Crust: Place the crust in the freezer for about 15 minutes to harden while you prepare the filling layers.
- Prepare Cheesecake Layer – Blend Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer at medium speed to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Whipped Topping: Add half (8 ounces) of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture and blend at low speed until fully incorporated.
- Prepare Key Lime Layer – Whisk Base: In a separate medium or large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and Greek yogurt until smooth.
- Whisk in Key Lime Zest and Juice: Add the key lime zest to the mixture, then gradually whisk in the key lime juice carefully to avoid splashing. Continue whisking until all juice is incorporated evenly.
- Assemble – Layer Cheesecake: Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the chilled graham cracker crust and spread it out evenly to cover the crust completely.
- Assemble – Layer Key Lime: Pour the key lime mixture over the cheesecake layer, spreading it to reach the edges of the dish for an even layer.
- Top with Whipped Topping: Spoon and smooth the remaining 8 ounces of whipped topping over the key lime layer to finish the dessert.
- Chill: Cover the assembled dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with extra whipped cream and key lime slices before serving chilled for a bright, creamy finish.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Press the graham cracker crust firmly to help it hold together better.
- Use fresh key limes for zest and juice when possible for the most authentic flavor.
- The dessert must be chilled for at least 4 hours to allow layers to set properly.
- Can be made a day ahead for convenience and better flavor melding.
- Substitute whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste if desired.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
