no bake key lime pie with cream cheese

A show-stopping dessert, the Triple Decker Key Lime Pie is an elegant and refreshing treat that beautifully balances tart citrus and creamy sweetness. Featuring three decadent layers—a crisp graham cracker crust, a tangy key lime filling, a whipped cheesecake middle, and a cloud-like whipped cream topping—this pie is a no-bake masterpiece perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime indulgence. The vibrant lime flavor and silky texture make every bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Triple Decker Key Lime Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of textures and flavors. Here’s why it stands out:

• No-Bake Layers: Apart from the crust, the pie requires no baking, making it ideal for hot days.
• Triple Texture Delight: Each layer brings its own unique texture—crunchy, creamy, and airy.
• Zesty & Sweet: The balance of key lime tartness and creamy sweetness is refreshing and satisfying.
• Great for Entertaining: Its beautiful layers and make-ahead convenience make it a perfect choice for dinner parties or celebrations.
• Customizable: With easy-to-find ingredients, this dessert can be adapted to suit various tastes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• graham cracker crumbs
• granulated sugar
• unsalted butter, melted

For the Key Lime Layer:

• sweetened condensed milk
• key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
• cream cheese, softened
• vanilla extract

For the Creamy Cheesecake Layer:

• cream cheese, softened
• powdered sugar
• heavy cream, whipped

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• heavy cream
• powdered sugar
• lime zest (plus more for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch deep pie dish. Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden. Let the crust cool completely.
2. Make the Key Lime Layer:
   In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and vanilla extract. Blend until silky and pour into the cooled crust. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
3. Add the Cheesecake Layer:
   In a separate bowl, beat the remaining cream cheese with powdered sugar until fluffy. Gently fold in the whipped cream. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled key lime layer. Chill for at least 1 hour.
4. Prepare the Topping:
   Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream on top of the pie. Sprinkle with lime zest for garnish.
5. Final Chill:
   Chill the entire pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 4 hours (minimum)
• Total Time: 4 hours 35 minutes
• Servings: 10 slices
• Calories: Approximately 410 kcal per slice

Variations

• Coconut Crust: Replace half the graham cracker crumbs with shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• Mini Pies: Use a muffin tin to create individual servings—perfect for parties.
• Lemon Version: Substitute lemon juice for key lime juice for a tangy lemon alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free crust.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based cream cheese, coconut whipped cream, and a vegan sweetened condensed milk alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: Not applicable for this no-bake dessert; serve chilled directly from the fridge.

FAQs

What’s the best way to get smooth layers?

Ensure each layer is fully chilled before adding the next. Use a spatula to gently spread and level each layer for a clean finish.

Can I use bottled key lime juice?

Yes, bottled key lime juice works well, especially if fresh key limes are unavailable. Just ensure it’s 100% juice without added sugars.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it tastes best when chilled overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Yes, a pre-made graham cracker crust can save time. Just make sure it’s deep enough to hold all the layers.

How do I keep the whipped cream from deflating?

Use cold utensils and heavy cream. Stabilizing the whipped cream with a bit of powdered sugar helps it hold its shape longer.

Is it possible to make this pie dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the cream cheese, whipped cream, and condensed milk with suitable dairy-free alternatives.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

Digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies are excellent alternatives.

How do I know when the crust is fully baked?

The crust should be lightly golden and fragrant. It will firm up more as it cools.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, though key limes offer a distinct flavor, regular limes are a suitable substitute.

How should I garnish this pie for presentation?

Top with extra lime zest, thin lime slices, or even a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for a polished look.

Conclusion

The Triple Decker Key Lime Pie is a delightful combination of creamy textures and bright citrus flavor, making it a perfect dessert for spring and summer occasions. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a slice on a quiet evening, its vibrant layers and refreshing taste are sure to impress. With its easy-to-follow preparation and stunning results, this pie is a must-try for any dessert enthusiast.

Triple Decker Key Lime Pie

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Triple Decker Key Lime Pie is the ultimate no-bake layered dessert with a graham cracker crust, a tangy key lime filling, a fluffy cheesecake center, and a light whipped cream topping. Perfect for summer gatherings or spring celebrations, this zesty lime dessert will refresh your taste buds and impress your guests.

• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: : 4 hours 35 minutes (including chilling)
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Key Lime Layer:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Creamy Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1 cup heavy cream, whipped

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon lime zest (plus more for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate.

3. Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden. Cool completely.

4. For the key lime layer: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and vanilla. Mix until smooth. Pour into crust and chill for 30 minutes.

5. For the cheesecake layer: Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until fluffy. Fold in whipped cream. Spread over the lime layer and chill for 1 hour.

6. For topping: Whip cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Swirl or pipe over the top. Garnish with lime zest.

7. Chill the pie for at least 4 hours or overnight before slicing.

Notes

• For a stronger lime flavor, add extra zest to the filling.

• Use fresh key lime juice for the best tangy taste.

• Make-ahead friendly—this pie holds up well overnight.

• A springform pan can be used for cleaner layers when serving.

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