Hey there, my zesty dessert dynamo! Let’s whip up these Key Lime Pie Jars—they’re about to bring a tangy, creamy burst of sunshine right to your spoon. Picture this: buttery graham cracker crumbs layered with a velvety key lime filling, topped with a dollop of whipped cream, all packed into cute little jars for a portable pie vibe. They’re tart, they’re sweet, and they’re so easy you’ll be chilling them in no time. I’m totally thrilled for you to try these—they’re like a mini vacation in every bite, and you’re gonna love ‘em!
Why You’ll Love Key Lime Pie Jars
These jars aren’t just a dessert—they’re a fun, no-bake treat that’ll brighten any day with minimal effort. Whether you’re packing them for a picnic, serving at a party, or just craving a citrus kick, they’ve got that tropical magic. Here’s why they’re about to become your new obsession:
Versatile: Perfect for picnics, parties, or a solo sweet fix—anytime you want a zesty twist.
Budget-Friendly: Graham crackers, limes, condensed milk—simple stuff turned into gold.
Quick and Easy: Mix, layer, chill—big flavor, no oven required!
Customizable: Tweak the tartness or toppings—make ‘em your own pie-jar masterpiece!
Crowd-Pleasing: Kids will love the jars, adults will crave the limey zing—everyone’s digging in.
Ingredients in Key Lime Pie Jars
Here’s the lineup that makes these jars a key lime dream—basic ingredients turned into pure bliss:
Graham Crackers
Crushed—forms that classic pie crust base.
Butter
Melted—binds the crumbs into a buttery layer.
Sweetened Condensed Milk
Canned—sweet, creamy backbone of the filling.
Key Lime Juice
Fresh or bottled—tart and tangy, the star of the show.
Lime Zest
Fresh—boosts that citrus punch.
Cream Cheese
Softened—adds richness and smooths it out.
Whipped Cream
Homemade or Cool Whip—light, fluffy crown.
Instructions
Let’s get these jars layering—it’s so simple, you’ll be chilling in no time!
Preheat Your Equipment
No heat needed—just a bowl, a spoon, and some jars!
Combine Ingredients
For the crust: Mix 1 cup graham cracker crumbs with 3 tablespoons melted butter—stir ‘til it’s like wet sand. For the filling: Beat 8 oz softened cream cheese ‘til smooth, then mix in 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk, ½ cup key lime juice, and 1 teaspoon lime zest—whisk ‘til creamy and thick.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
Grab 6-8 small jars (4-6 oz each)—your pie palaces are ready!
Assemble the Dish
Spoon 2 tablespoons of the crumb mix into each jar—press down lightly with a spoon. Add 3-4 tablespoons of the lime filling on top—smooth it out. Repeat if your jars are big enough for layers!
Cook to Perfection
No cooking—just chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours ‘til set—firm and cool!
Finishing Touches
Top each jar with a dollop of whipped cream—sprinkle with extra crumbs or zest for that pie flair.
Serve and Enjoy
Dig in cold—perfect with a spoon and a citrusy smile!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350
Fat: 20g | Protein: 6g | Carbs: 38g
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
How to Serve Key Lime Pie Jars
These jars shine however you scoop ‘em—here’s how to make them extra zesty:
Fresh Salads: Pair with a fruit salad—berries or mango—for a tropical vibe.
Crusty Bread: Skip it—the graham base is the crunch star!
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a drizzle of caramel—lime and caramel are wild together!
Vegetable Sides: Nope, keep it sweet—this is all about citrus bliss!
As a Standalone: Serve with tiny spoons on a tray—cute and ready to enjoy.
I love ‘em chilled with a cold iced tea—the lime tang and cool drink are pure summer vibes!
Additional Tips
Here’s the scoop to make these jars even more lime-tastic:
Prep Ahead: Make a day early—chills perfectly and saves time.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ginger to the filling—warmth meets zing!
Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free grahams or sugar-free condensed milk—still heavenly.
Storage Tips: Keep covered in the fridge for 4 days—stays fresh and tart.
Double the Batch: Double it up—same steps, just more jars to love!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use regular limes?
A1: Yep! Key limes are tarter, but regular work—use a bit more zest!
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Totally! Prep up to 3 days ahead—top with cream day-of for freshness.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Covered in the fridge—good for 4 days of limey joy!
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Not great—texture gets funky, better fresh from the fridge!
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: No reheating—just serve cold for that pie perfection!
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Oh, yeah! Double everything—use more jars, same chill time.
Q7: Can I skip the cream cheese?
A7: Sure! Sub with more condensed milk—still creamy, just lighter!
Q8: Why’s it runny?
A8: Not chilled enough—give it at least 2 hours to set!
Q9: Can I use bottled juice?
A9: Yep! Fresh is zingier, but bottled (like Nellie & Joe’s) is key lime legit!
Q10: How many jars do I need?
A10: 6-8 small ones (4-6 oz)—adjust filling amount to fit!
Conclusion
There you have it, my friend—these Key Lime Pie Jars are your new citrusy champs! They’re creamy, they’re tart, and they’ve got that no-bake ease that makes every spoonful a mini getaway. Whether you’re sharing with your crew or sneaking one solo, they’re a little taste of sunshine you’ll want to make again and again. So grab those limes, layer those jars, and let’s chill some pie magic together—you’re gonna love this one, I promise!
PrintKEY LIME PIE JARS
These Key Lime Pie Jars are tangy, creamy, and perfectly portioned for a refreshing spring dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious key lime filling, and a fluffy whipped cream topping, they make for an irresistible treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the crust: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted).
For the filling: 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk, ½ cup sour cream, ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (or regular lime juice), 1 tablespoon lime zest, a few drops of green gel food coloring (optional).
For topping: 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, thin lime slices or curls for garnish.
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the crumb mixture into the bottom of each jar and press it down gently to form the crust. Set aside.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. Add a touch of green food coloring if desired for extra vibrancy.
- Divide the filling evenly among the jars, spooning it gently over the crust.
- Place the jars in a baking dish and add about 1 inch of hot water around them to create a water bath. Bake for 12–15 minutes, just until the centers are set but slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Meanwhile, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Once the jars are fully chilled, top with piped whipped cream swirls.
- Garnish with a twist of lime or a thin lime wheel on each jar.
Notes
- For a more intense lime flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lime zest.
- These jars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Swap key lime juice for lemon juice for a citrusy variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg