Key Lime Pie Jars

These Key Lime Pie Jars are the perfect individual-sized dessert, combining a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy lime filling, and a light, fluffy whipped cream topping. A refreshing and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion, especially spring and summer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Portioned: These jar desserts are ideal for individual servings, making them great for parties, picnics, or make-ahead desserts.

• No-Bake Convenience: Skip the oven—this easy dessert is completely no-bake, making it a breeze to whip up.

• Tart and Sweet Balance: The zesty lime filling paired with sweetened condensed milk creates that signature key lime pie flavor that’s irresistibly tangy and creamy.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep these ahead of time and store them in the fridge until ready to serve, perfect for entertaining or meal prep treats.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (or regular lime juice)

• 1 tablespoon lime zest

• A few drops of green gel food coloring (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Thin lime slices or lime curls, for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
   Press about 2 tablespoons of the crust mixture into the bottom of each small jar or cup. Set aside.

2. Make the Filling:
   In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, and food coloring (if using) until smooth and creamy.
   Spoon the lime filling evenly over the crust in each jar, smoothing the tops.

3. Chill:
   Chill the jars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.

4. Prepare the Topping:
   Just before serving, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form.
   Pipe or spoon the whipped cream over the lime filling and garnish with thin lime slices or curls.

5. Serve:
   Serve these refreshing key lime pie jars chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 jars

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 2 hours

• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

• Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving

Variations

• Crust Options: Swap graham crackers with crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a twist.

• Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the crust or sprinkle on top of the whipped cream for a tropical vibe.

• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut condensed milk, dairy-free sour cream, and coconut whipped topping for a lactose-free dessert.

• Citrus Blend: Mix in a bit of lemon or orange zest with the lime for a unique citrus medley.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the jars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, add whipped cream topping just before serving.

• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled jars (without whipped topping) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and add topping before serving.

• Reheating: Not applicable for this chilled, no-bake dessert.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh lime juice will give the best flavor. If using bottled, look for key lime juice for authenticity.

Do I need to bake the crust?

Nope! This is a completely no-bake recipe, so you can skip the oven altogether.

Can I make these jars ahead of time?

Yes, they’re perfect for prepping a day or two in advance. Just add whipped topping before serving for best texture.

What kind of jars should I use?

Any small jars or cups (about 4-6 oz) work well—mason jars are a popular and cute choice.

Can I make this recipe in a large dish instead of individual jars?

Absolutely! Use a small pie dish or baking dish and follow the same layering instructions.

Is green food coloring necessary?

Not at all—it’s just for visual appeal. The flavor stays the same without it.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be substituted for sour cream in equal amounts.

How long do these need to chill?

At least 2 hours is recommended for the filling to set properly.

Can I make a gluten-free version?

Yes, just use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.

Can I add other toppings?

Definitely—try crushed nuts, toasted coconut, or even white chocolate shavings.

Conclusion

Key Lime Pie Jars are a simple yet elegant dessert that’s full of flavor and fun to eat. With their creamy lime filling, buttery crust, and airy whipped topping, these jars make the ultimate portable treat. Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a tangy-sweet bite, these no-bake delights are guaranteed to impress!

Key Lime Pie Jars

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• Author: Paula
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 jars
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Key Lime Pie Jars are a refreshing, no-bake dessert layered with a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy, tangy lime filling, and fluffy whipped cream. Perfectly portioned in jars for individual servings, they’re a crowd-pleasing treat ideal for spring and summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a make-ahead dessert that’s light, zesty, and indulgent.

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Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (or regular lime juice)

1 tablespoon lime zest

A few drops of green gel food coloring (optional)

For the Topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Thin lime slices or lime zest curls, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until it resembles wet sand. Spoon about 2 tablespoons into each jar and press down gently to form the crust base. Set aside.

2. Make the Filling:
   In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, and optional food coloring until smooth. Spoon the mixture evenly into each jar over the crust layer. Smooth the tops.

3. Chill:
   Place jars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set the filling.

4. Prepare the Topping:
   Just before serving, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Pipe or spoon onto the chilled filling.

5. Garnish & Serve:
   Top with lime slices or curls and serve chilled.

Notes

Make Ahead: These jars can be made a day in advance—just add the whipped cream before serving.

Customize: Try using crushed vanilla wafers or gingersnaps for the crust for a flavor twist.

Citrus Variations: Swap lime with lemon or orange juice/zest for a citrusy spin.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: ~310 kcal per serving