This No-Bake Key Lime Pie combines tangy lime flavor with a creamy filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust — all without needing to turn on the oven. A refreshing dessert ideal for warm weather.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s quick, light, and delightfully tart. The lime flavor is bright but creamy, and the no-bake preparation means you can whip it up effortlessly. Serve it chilled for a perfectly cool finale to any meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

graham cracker crumbs
melted butter
sweetened condensed milk
fresh key lime juice (or regular lime)
lime zest
whipped topping or whipped cream
optional garnish: lime slices, zest, mint

Directions

Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a pie plate. Chill to set.
In a bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth and thickened.
Fold in whipped topping (or whipped cream) gently until combined.
Pour filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
Before serving, garnish with lime slices, additional zest, or mint.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 4+ hours (overnight recommended)
Total Time: ~4 hours 15 minutes (or overnight)

Variations

Use a graham cracker–chocolate cookie crust for a twist.
Fold in lime zest or bits of lime peel for texture.
Add a layer of berry compote on top for added flavor.
For a semi-frozen version, freeze slightly and serve like pie “ice cream.”

Storage/Reheating

Keep covered and refrigerated for up to 4 days. This dessert is not suitable for freezing, as the texture can suffer. Serve chilled.

FAQs

What if I can’t find key limes?

Regular limes work fine, though key limes have a slightly smoother, more aromatic flavor.

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes, but graham cracker crust is classic and best complements the lime.

Why did my filling runny?

Possibly too much lime juice or not enough chilling time.

Can I use powdered sugar instead of condensed milk?

Not directly — condensed milk provides both sweetness and structure.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free graham crackers.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prepare the day before and let it chill overnight.

How tangy will it be?

It’s pleasantly tart, balanced by creamy sweetness.

Can I cut it early?

Wait until it’s fully set in the fridge for clean slices.

What toppings pair well?

Whipped cream, lime slices, zest, mint, or berries.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan or make two pies; chilling time may adjust.

Conclusion

No-Bake Key Lime Pie with Graham Crust is a vibrant, refreshing dessert that’s simple to make yet impressive in flavor. It’s the perfect choice when you want zesty but effortless dessert bliss.

No-Bake Key Lime Pie with Graham Crust

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A refreshing and tangy no-bake key lime pie made with a creamy lime filling and a buttery graham cracker crust — the perfect summer dessert.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream (plus more for garnish)

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Instructions

In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form a crust. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
Fold in the whipped topping gently until evenly incorporated.
Pour the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
Garnish with additional whipped cream and lime slices or zest before serving.