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If you adore zesty desserts that brighten your day and bring a smile to your face, then this Key Lime Pie Jars Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine all the tangy, creamy goodness of a classic key lime pie, but served in charming individual jars that make every bite feel special and delightfully portable. Perfect for summer picnics, casual get-togethers, or a sweet ending to any meal, these jars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a luscious lime-infused filling topped with fluffy whipped cream. They are as fun to eat as they are to make, and I guarantee they will become one of your favorite go-to treats in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe celebrates simplicity with just a handful of ingredients, each playing an important role in creating the texture and vibrant flavor that make this dessert stand out. From the crisp, buttery crust to the smooth and tangy lime filling, every element is essential for that perfect balance.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crunchy, flavorful base that complements the tartness of the lime filling.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the citrus notes.
- Unsalted butter: Melted to bind the crust, giving it richness and a buttery aroma.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Creates a creamy, dense filling with natural sweetness and smooth texture.
- Key lime juice: The star of the show, delivering a fresh and tangy punch that defines the dessert.
- Lime zest: Adds fragrant citrus oils for an extra layer of flavor complexity.
- Heavy cream, whipped: Lightens the filling with a fluffy texture, making each bite melt in your mouth.
- Extra lime zest and graham cracker crumbs or lime slices (optional): Perfect for a pretty finishing touch to impress your guests.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Jars Recipe
Step 1: Make the Crust
Begin by combining the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. The goal here is to get a moist, sandy mixture that will firmly hold together when pressed. Divide this mixture evenly into your jars and press down gently but firmly to form a sturdy crust layer that’s ready to support the luscious filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Next, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until the filling thickens slightly and becomes silky smooth. The citrus juice reacts with the condensed milk, creating that signature creamy yet tart texture. Carefully fold in the whipped heavy cream, which lightens the mixture and adds an irresistible fluffiness that’s key to this dessert’s charm.
Step 3: Assemble the Jars
Spoon the vibrant key lime filling over the crust in each jar, filling them about two-thirds full. This balance ensures you get both crust and filling in every heavenly spoonful. Taking your time here guarantees neat presentation and even layering.
Step 4: Add Topping and Chill
Top each jar with a generous dollop of whipped cream, spreading it evenly to create a creamy crown. Sprinkle on some extra lime zest and a few graham cracker crumbs or adorn with a tiny lime slice for a pretty garnish. Chill the jars in the fridge for at least two hours so the flavors meld and the filling sets perfectly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these delightful Key Lime Pie Jars chilled, straight from the jar with a spoon. They’re wonderfully refreshing and make for a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing dessert that feels like a party in every bite.
How to Serve Key Lime Pie Jars Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your jars visually and flavor-wise by adding a sprinkle of extra lime zest on top for that burst of citrus aroma. A pinch of graham cracker crumbs adds subtle crunch, while a thin lime slice or wedge brightens the presentation and invites savoring the tang.
Side Dishes
These jars shine as a stand-alone treat but also pair beautifully with fresh fruit salads, berry compotes, or a simple mint garnish to elevate the tropical vibe. They’re light and refreshing enough to complement richer mains or casual BBQ fare alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the key lime filling and crust alternately for a visual surprise when scooped. Using clear jars of different sizes creates a charming dessert display. You might also serve them with cute mini spoons tied on with twine for a rustic but elegant touch to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Stored tightly sealed in the refrigerator, these key lime pie jars keep well for up to three days. Keeping them chilled is essential for maintaining the fresh citrus notes and creamy texture that make this recipe so irresistible.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it can alter the texture of the whipped cream topping, making it less fluffy when thawed. For best results, freeze only the filling (without the whipped cream topping) in a covered container and thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling to preserve the jar’s classic texture.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. The luscious filling and whipped cream are meant to be savored chilled, offering a refreshing contrast to warm weather or heavy meals.
FAQs
Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?
Absolutely! While key lime juice gives a unique tang and aroma, regular lime juice is a great substitute that still delivers fresh, citrusy flavor.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream, or can I use whipped topping?
Whipped topping works well for a lighter option and makes the process quicker, but heavy cream adds a richer, fresher flavor and creamier texture that really elevates the dish.
How long does it take for the filling to set properly?
Chilling the jars for at least two hours is crucial for the filling to firm up and the flavors to marry beautifully, giving you the ideal silky yet sliceable consistency.
Can I make these jars ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! These jars are perfect for prepping a day in advance, allowing you to focus on other party details while offering guests a stunning, ready-to-serve dessert.
What is the best way to crush graham crackers if I don’t have crumbs?
Place whole graham crackers in a sealed plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan until you have fine crumbs. This ensures an even, consistent crust texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly joyful about these Key Lime Pie Jars Recipe that makes every gathering extra special. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or sharing with friends and family, the balance of zesty lime, creamy filling, and crunchy crust brings sunshine to any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you just might find a new favorite dessert that’s both charming and delicious!
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Key Lime Pie Jars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these refreshing Key Lime Pie Jars, a no-bake, mini version of the classic tangy and creamy dessert. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a luscious key lime and sweetened condensed milk filling, finished with fluffy whipped cream and zesty lime garnish, these jars are perfect for summer, parties, or anytime you crave a citrusy treat without turning on the oven.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full crackers, crushed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest (from key limes or regular limes)
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped (or 2 cups whipped topping)
Topping & Garnish
- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
- Extra lime zest (for garnish)
- Graham cracker crumbs or lime slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter thoroughly. Divide this mixture evenly among 6 to 8 (8 oz) mason jars or dessert cups, pressing lightly into the bottom of each to form the crust layer, about 2 to 3 tablespoons per jar.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream or whipped topping until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Assemble the Jars: Spoon the prepared key lime filling over the crust layer in each jar, filling them about two-thirds of the way full, which is roughly 1/3 cup per jar depending on size.
- Add Topping: Top each jar with a generous dollop of whipped cream or whipped topping, spreading it evenly over the filling.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle the jars with extra lime zest and a pinch of graham cracker crumbs or add a small lime slice for an attractive decoration. Refrigerate the jars for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy the key lime pie jars chilled straight from the jars with a spoon for a convenient and delicious treat.
Notes
- You can substitute regular lime juice and zest if key limes are not available.
- For a lighter option, you can use whipped topping instead of heavy cream.
- Ensure the jars are well chilled to help the filling set and maintain texture.
- These jars can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated until serving for convenience.
