This Easy Key Lime Pie delivers a burst of tangy, citrusy bliss in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy days. The creamy, velvety filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp, buttery graham cracker crust, creating a harmony of textures.
Each bite is a refreshing escape, with the zesty lime flavor balanced by a hint of sweetness. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet effortless, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or a quick treat. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up without sacrificing that classic, irresistible flavor.
With no baking required, this pie is as fuss-free as it gets, yet it tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The bright, vibrant lime aroma will fill your space, instantly lifting your mood. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe guarantees success every time.
It’s the kind of dessert that leaves everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe. In just 10 minutes, you’ll have a show-stopping pie that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients for Easy Key Lime Pie
- For the graham cracker crust:
- 2 cups (6oz/170g) graham cracker crumbs (or any plain biscuit)
- 3/4 cup (6oz/170g) butter, melted
- For the filling:
- 1 can (14oz/398g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/3 cup (2 1/2floz/71ml) whipping cream
- 1 cup (8oz/225g) cream cheese
- 1/2 cup (4floz/115ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
- Zest of 3 limes
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for decorating
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Mix the melted butter with the graham cracker crumbs until the texture resembles wet sand. Transfer the mixture into a pie pan and press it down firmly using your fingertips. Use a small bowl or cup to shape the crumbs evenly along the sides of the pan. Place the crust in the fridge to set for 30 minutes. Tip: If you want to remove the pie easily, line the pan with 2 layers of cling wrap before adding the crust.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, whip together the cream cheese, condensed milk, whipping cream, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Whip for 4-5 minutes until the mixture firms up slightly. Don’t worry if it’s not very firm—it will set in the fridge.
- Assemble the pie: Remove the crust from the fridge and pour the filling mixture into it. Return the pie to the fridge and let it set for a minimum of 5 hours, or preferably overnight. Note: Since there’s no setting agent, it needs ample time to firm up.
- Decorate and serve: Once set, fit a piping bag with a nozzle and fill it with whipped cream. Decorate the pie with whipped cream and lime slices. Slice, serve, and enjoy! Store any leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Quick Tips for Perfect Key Lime Pie
To save time, use pre-made graham cracker crusts or store-bought lime juice if you’re in a pinch. For a smoother filling, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before whipping. If you’re short on fridge time, pop the pie in the freezer for 1-2 hours to speed up the setting process.
Creative Toppings and Serving Ideas
Elevate your pie with a drizzle of raspberry coulis or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. Serve with a dollop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast. For a festive touch, garnish with edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Storage and Freshness Tips
Keep your pie covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Avoid freezing the pie, as the texture of the filling may change. If you’ve decorated with whipped cream, add it just before serving to maintain its shape and freshness.
Equipment You’ll Love for This Recipe
Invest in a GoodCook Zester/Juicer for easy lime zesting and juicing. A Sweet Creations Cupcake Decorating Kit makes piping whipped cream a breeze. For a perfectly even crust, use a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup to press the crumbs firmly into the pan.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use bottled lime juice? Fresh lime juice is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch. How do I know when the pie is set? The filling should be firm to the touch and not jiggle when gently shaken. If you’re unsure, give it an extra hour in the fridge.
Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe in 10 Minutes
Ingredients
For the graham cracker crust:
- 2 cups graham crackers crumbs (or any plain biscuit) 6oz/170g
- 3/4 cup butter (melted) 6oz/170g
For the filling:
- 1 can condensed milk, sweetened 14oz/398g
- 1/3 cup whipping cream 2 1/2floz/71ml
- 1 cup cream cheese 8oz/225g
- 1/2 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed) 4floz/115ml
- zest of 3 limes
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for decorating
Instructions
- Prepare the graham cracker crust by mixing the melted butter with the graham crumbs until you’ve reached the texture of wet sand.
- Transfer the crust mixture into your pie pan and press down using your fingertips. Use a small bowl or cup to push the crumbs up to the side of the tin. This will form an even crust.
- Once the graham mixture has been pressed into the tin place it in the fridge to set for roughly 30 minutes. Note: If you want to be able to remove your pie from the dish to serve then line your pie tin with 2 layers of cling wrap. This will ensure you can easily remove the pie crust from the tin.
- While the crust is setting make the key lime filling: First juice 1/2 cup of fresh limes using the GoodCook Zester/Juicer.
- In a large bowl whip the cream cheese, condensed milk, whipping cream, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Whip for roughly 4-5 minutes until it firms up. Don’t worry if your mix is not really firm as it will set up in the fridge overnight.
- Remove the pie crust from the fridge and fill it with the filling mixture. Return to the fridge and allow to set for a minimum of 5 hours but preferably overnight. As there is no setting agent, it needs a long time in the fridge.
- Once set, fit a GoodCook piping bag with a nozzle then fill with whipped cream. For this, I suggest using the Sweet Creations Cupcake Decorating Kit (12 Pieces). Decorate your pie with whipped cream and slices of lime and enjoy!
- This pie can be kept covered and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.