Description
This refreshing No Bake Key Lime Pie features a crunchy graham cracker crust and a creamy, tangy filling made from cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and fresh lime juice. Perfect for a quick and easy dessert that doesn’t require baking, it sets beautifully in the fridge for a luscious, cool treat.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (approximately 2 packets)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick, melted)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional)
For the Filling
- 24 ounces cream cheese (3 blocks full fat, softened to room temperature)
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
- ¾ cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime zest
- 8 ounces Cool Whip (thawed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Plate: Spray a 10-inch pie plate with non-cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers until you obtain fine crumbs. Alternatively, crush them using a rolling pin in a zip-closure bag.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: Transfer the crumbs to a small bowl, then add sugar and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is fully combined.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pie plate.
- Set the Crust: Place the crust in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric hand mixer on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add Remaining Filling Ingredients: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest. Beat again until fully combined and smooth.
- Incorporate Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip using a spatula or wooden spoon to maintain airiness.
- Assemble the Pie: Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the filling onto it. Spread evenly with a spatula, lightly pressing down in a back-and-forth motion to smooth.
- Chill the Pie: Refrigerate the pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set properly.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, decorate the pie with additional whipped cream and fresh lime slices or freshly grated lime zest for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lime juice and zest.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Chill the pie long enough; an overnight chill yields the best texture.
- This pie can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you prefer a more tart pie, increase the lime juice by a tablespoon.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
