Creamy, tangy, and incredibly refreshing, these no-bake Key Lime Pie Dessert Cups feature a buttery graham cracker crust, silky lime cheesecake filling, and fluffy whipped topping. They’re the perfect make-ahead dessert for parties, holidays, or warm summer days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 dessert cups

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Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust

• 1½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)

Key Lime Filling

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 can (14 oz / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup (120ml) fresh key lime juice
• 1 tablespoon key lime zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy whipping cream, whipped to stiff peaks

Topping

• 1 cup whipped cream
• 2 tablespoons graham cracker crumbs
• Thin lime slices
• Extra lime zest

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly moistened.
2. Divide the mixture evenly among 6 serving glasses.
3. Press gently with the back of a spoon.
4. Chill while preparing the filling.

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Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until creamy.
3. Blend in the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract.
4. Gently fold in the whipped cream until light and fluffy.

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Step 3: Assemble

1. Spoon or pipe half of the filling over the crust.
2. Add a thin layer of extra lime filling or lime curd if desired for the vibrant green layer.
3. Top with the remaining cheesecake filling.
4. Smooth the tops.

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Step 4: Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best texture.

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Step 5: Garnish

Before serving, top each cup with:

• Whipped cream
• Graham cracker crumbs
• Fresh lime slice
• Lime zest

Serve chilled.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on the ingredients used.

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Tips for Success

• Fresh key lime juice gives the brightest flavor, but regular lime juice works well too.
• Chill the dessert overnight for the firmest, creamiest texture.
• Pipe the filling into the cups for neat, bakery-style layers.
• Whip the cream until stiff peaks form before folding it into the filling.
• Garnish just before serving to keep the whipped cream fresh.

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Variations

Strawberry Key Lime Cups

Add a layer of fresh sliced strawberries between the filling.

Coconut Lime Cups

Mix ¼ cup toasted coconut into the crust.

Lemon-Lime Version

Use equal parts lemon and lime juice for a citrus twist.

Mini Cheesecake Jars

Assemble the dessert in small mason jars for easy transport.

Chocolate Lime Cups

Replace the graham cracker crust with crushed chocolate cookies.

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Serving Suggestions

• Fresh berries
• Mint leaves
• Vanilla ice cream
• Iced tea
• Coffee
• Tropical fruit salad

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Storage

Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

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Nut Information

Contains Peanuts? ❌ No

Contains Tree Nuts? ❌ No

Nut-Free Recipe: ✅ Yes

Allergy Note: This recipe is naturally nut-free. Always check packaged ingredients such as graham crackers, cream cheese, and whipped topping for allergen statements and possible cross-contamination if serving someone with severe nut allergies.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes. Regular Persian limes work well, although key limes have a slightly more floral and tart flavor.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. They can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated.

3. Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?

Yes. Store-bought whipped topping can be substituted in equal amounts.

4. How do I make the filling firmer?

Chill it overnight or fold in an additional 2–3 tablespoons of whipped cream cheese for extra stability.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Simply use certified gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

6. Can I freeze these dessert cups?

Yes. Freeze without the whipped cream garnish, then thaw in the refrigerator and decorate before serving.

7. Can I make this sugar-free?

Yes. Use sugar-free sweetened condensed milk, a sugar-free sweetener if needed, and sugar-free cookies or almond flour crust for a lower-sugar version.