Description
A refreshing no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy key lime filling, graham cracker crust, and whipped topping, perfect for summer and easy to prepare ahead.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Key Lime Layer
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
Pudding Layer
- 1 box (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping, thawed (divided)
Garnish (Optional)
- Extra whipped topping
- Lime slices
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create an even crust. Refrigerate to set while preparing the filling.
- Make the key lime layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest, continuing to beat until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust.
- Prepare the pudding layer: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk briskly for about 2 minutes or until the mixture thickens. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the layers: Spread the pudding mixture evenly over the key lime layer in the baking dish. Then, top with the remaining whipped topping and smooth the surface for a clean finish.
- Chill and garnish: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. Before serving, garnish with additional whipped topping and fresh lime slices or zest if desired.
Notes
- For a stronger citrus flavor, add a few drops of lime extract to the key lime layer.
- Try using crushed vanilla wafers or golden Oreos as a crust alternative for a different twist.
- This dessert tastes best when made a day ahead, allowing flavors to meld and the layers to firm up perfectly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (approximately 3.5 x 3.5 inches)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
