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Key Lime Pie Trifle Recipe

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3.9 from 25 reviews

This refreshing Key Lime Pie Trifle combines the zesty tang of key lime with creamy layers of whipped cream and cream cheese, all nestled between crispy graham cracker crumbs. Perfect for a make-ahead dessert, it’s a no-bake treat that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (divided)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

Filling

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream (chilled)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup key lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon key lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare crumb base: Mix 1 cup of the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup crumbs for later decorating.
  2. Form base layer: Press the buttered graham cracker crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your serving dish to create a compact crust layer.
  3. Whip cream: Using a mixer, beat the chilled heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This will create a light and airy texture for the filling.
  4. Beat cream cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy to ensure no lumps in the filling.
  5. Add flavorings: Incorporate the powdered sugar, key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  6. Fold whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, combining them carefully until the filling is light, fluffy, and well blended.
  7. Layer filling and crumbs: Spread half of the creamy filling over the graham cracker crust, then sprinkle some of the reserved crumbs on top.
  8. Add second filling layer: Spoon the remaining filling over the crumb layer evenly.
  9. Top with crumbs: Sprinkle the remaining reserved graham cracker crumbs and additional lime zest on top for garnish.
  10. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh key limes if possible for more authentic flavor, or bottled key lime juice as a convenient alternative.
  • Ensure the heavy cream is very cold before whipping for best volume.
  • For a more tart dessert, increase the key lime juice slightly, but adjust sugar accordingly.
  • This trifle keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days, but consume within that time for optimal freshness.
  • Can be served in individual glasses or a large bowl for striking presentation.