Key Lime Pie Parfaits Recipe

Introduction

These key lime pie parfaits are a bright, creamy dessert that’s both refreshing and simple to make. Perfect for after dinner or parties, they combine tangy lime flavor with crunchy cookie crumbs and fluffy whipped cream. This no-bake treat is sure to please anyone craving a sweet and zesty dessert.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup graham cracker crumbs (about 3–4 full sheets)
• ¾ cup shortbread cookie crumbs (about 15 small round cookies)
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup key lime juice
• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
• 3 tablespoons Dixie Crystals confectioners’ sugar
• ¾ teaspoon Nielsen‑Massey vanilla extract
• Freshly grated lime zest and/or thinly sliced lime, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and shortbread cookie crumbs. Mix evenly.
2. Step 2: Divide the crumb mixture among serving glasses or parfait cups, pressing lightly to form the base layer.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and key lime juice until smooth and thickened.
4. Step 4: In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
5. Step 5: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture until well combined and creamy.
6. Step 6: Spoon or pipe the lime cream over the crumb layers in each glass.
7. Step 7: Add another layer of crumbs if desired, followed by more lime cream.
8. Step 8: Garnish each parfait with freshly grated lime zest or thin lime slices.
9. Step 9: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to set.

Tips & Variations

• Use regular lime juice if you can’t find key lime juice; it will still be delicious.
• For extra texture, add chopped pistachios or toasted coconut between layers.
• Try using ginger snap crumbs instead of shortbread for a spicier twist.
• Serve in small glasses for individual portions and easy presentation at parties.

Storage

Store the parfaits covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Re-chill before serving for the best texture. These parfaits are best enjoyed fresh, as the crumb layers may soften over time.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these parfaits ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these parfaits a few hours ahead or the day before. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator and add garnishes right before serving.

What can I substitute for key lime juice?

If key lime juice is unavailable, fresh regular lime juice or bottled lime juice can be used. The flavor will be slightly different but still pleasantly tart.

Key Lime Pie Parfaits Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 119 reviews

• Author: Lila
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 3–4 servings 1x

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Description

These Key Lime Pie Parfaits are a bright and creamy dessert featuring layers of crunchy graham cracker and shortbread crumbs topped with a luscious, tangy lime custard-like filling and fluffy whipped cream. This refreshing treat is easy to assemble, perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet and tart indulgence with a burst of citrus flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust Layers

• ¾ cup graham cracker crumbs (about 3–4 full sheets)
• ¾ cup shortbread cookie crumbs (about 15 small round cookies)

Lime Filling

• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup key lime juice

Whipped Cream

• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
• 3 tablespoons Dixie Crystals confectioners’ sugar
• ¾ teaspoon Nielsen‑Massey vanilla extract

Garnish

• Freshly grated lime zest and/or thinly sliced lime, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crumb Base: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and shortbread cookie crumbs thoroughly. Divide this crumb mixture evenly among serving glasses or parfait cups, pressing lightly to form a compact base layer for each parfait.
2. Make the Lime Mixture: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and key lime juice until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken, forming a custard-like consistency full of tangy citrus flavor.
3. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream along with the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, creating a light and fluffy whipped cream.
4. Combine Cream and Lime Mixture: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture until completely blended and creamy, maintaining a light texture.
5. Assemble the Parfaits: Spoon or pipe the lime cream over the crumb layers in each glass. If desired, add an additional layer of crumbs followed by more lime cream to create layered parfaits.
6. Garnish and Chill: Top each parfait with freshly grated lime zest or thin slices of lime for brightness and visual appeal. Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 1 hour before serving to allow them to set and flavors to meld.

Notes

• For a more vibrant lime flavor, use fresh key lime juice if available.
• You can prepare the parfaits a few hours ahead to allow the flavors to develop more deeply.
• Add crushed nuts or toasted coconut to the crumb layers for extra texture if desired.
• To make it gluten-free, substitute gluten-free crackers for the graham crackers and ensure shortbread cookies are gluten-free.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Key Lime Pie, Parfaits, No Bake Dessert, Lime Dessert, Summer Dessert, Creamy Lime, Graham Cracker Crust