Name: Key Lime Pie Trifle
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 package Cream Cheese, softened (8 oz); 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz); 1/2 cup Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice (Key limes preferred); 2 pieces Limes, Zest; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 2 tablespoons Powdered Sugar; 1 package Graham Crackers, crushed (10 oz); 2 tablespoons Melted Butter; 1 cup Fresh Whipped Cream (for topping); to taste Lime Slices and Extra Zest (for garnish)

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Creamy, tangy, and bursting with fresh lime flavor, this Key Lime Pie Trifle is a showstopper that’s sure to brighten up any day. Imagine layers of velvety lime cheesecake, crunchy graham cracker crumble, and clouds of whipped cream—each spoonful both refreshing and indulgent! Key lime desserts hold a special place in my heart: my family requests them every summer, and this trifle is always gone in minutes. What makes this dish even more special is its simplicity—no baking or complicated equipment, just a few easy steps and a handful of pantry staples.

If you loved my No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits, get ready to fall head over heels for this Key Lime Pie Trifle. Both recipes promise the wow factor with minimal effort. Let’s dive in and create a dessert that will be the highlight of your next gathering—easy, zesty, and utterly irresistible!

What is Key Lime Pie Trifle?

So, what on earth is a Key Lime Pie Trifle? No, it’s not a typo—it’s a playful mashup! Trifle, a traditional British dessert, layers cake, custard, and cream. Key Lime Pie, a tangy American favorite, stars lime, creamy filling, and a graham cracker crust. Put them together and voila—you have Key Lime Pie Trifle, the dessert equivalent of a “mic drop.” Ever heard the saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”? Well, this trifle is the recipe that proves it’s true for anyone with a sweet tooth. Ready to make your kitchen the happiest place in the house? Then read on and get ready to whip up this showstopping treat!

Why You’ll Love This

There’s so much to adore about Key Lime Pie Trifle! First, it’s all about those bright, zesty flavors—imagine tangy lime mingling with creamy cheesecake and buttery, crunchy graham crackers. Each layer is a celebration of flavor and texture.

Making it at home means skipping the pricey bakery trifle (and the mystery ingredients). With affordable staples like cream cheese and graham crackers, you’ll save money without sacrificing a bit of decadence.

What truly sets this dessert apart are the toppings: fresh whipped cream, extra lime zest, and cheerful lime slices. It’s as eye-catching as it is mouthwatering. Fans of my Lemon Dessert Cups will love this easy-to-share treat, too.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a solo splurge, this trifle is your ticket to an unforgettable dessert. Dive in and taste how homemade can be utterly heavenly!

How to Make Key Lime Pie Trifle

Quick Overview

The beauty of Key Lime Pie Trifle is how quickly it comes together—prepping takes about 20 minutes, and there’s zero baking required. Layers of tangy lime cheesecake alternate with buttery graham crackers and pillow-soft whipped cream, all assembled in one dish. The result? A dessert that looks impressive and tastes even better, with the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy in every bite.

Ingredients

1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (Key limes preferred, but regular limes work too)
Zest of 2 limes
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 package (10 oz) graham crackers, crushed
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 cup fresh whipped cream (for topping)
Lime slices and extra zest for garnish

Step-by-Step

Make the Graham Cracker Layer:
Place the graham crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin until you have fine crumbs. Pour them into a bowl, add the melted butter, and stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand. Set aside.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the mixture is creamy, fluffy, and well combined.
Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Fold the Whipped Cream:
Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture to make it light and airy.
Layer the Trifle:
In a large trifle dish or individual glasses, start with a layer of the graham cracker mixture. Spoon a generous layer of the lime cheesecake filling over it. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with cheesecake filling on top.
Add the Toppings:
Dollop the remaining whipped cream over the trifle, then decorate with lime slices and extra lime zest for a pop of color and flavor.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving so the flavors meld and the trifle sets beautifully. Serve chilled and enjoy!

What to Serve Key Lime Pie Trifle With

This bright and tangy dessert pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes and drinks! Try it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light, summery finish. For a classic picnic spread, serve with fresh fruit salads or a platter of tea sandwiches. If you’re feeling festive, a mojito or sparkling lemonade is the ideal drink match. No matter what you serve it with, this trifle will always steal the show.

Top Tips for Perfecting Key Lime Pie Trifle

Go Fresh: Freshly squeezed lime juice gives the best, brightest flavor—bottled just doesn’t compare.
Chill for Best Results: Give the trifle enough time to set in the fridge; a couple of hours minimum, overnight for best texture.
Get Creative: Swap graham crackers for vanilla wafers or shortbread for a twist!
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version.
Don’t Overmix: When folding in the whipped cream, use a gentle hand to keep things light and fluffy.
Watch the Layers: Spoon each layer gently to maintain defined stripes for a stunning presentation.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Key Lime Pie Trifle stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer servings to airtight containers to keep them fresh. Because this trifle is best enjoyed chilled, there’s no need to reheat—just serve straight from the fridge!

If you want to make it ahead, assemble the layers (except the whipped cream topping) and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Add the fresh whipped cream and garnishes just before serving to keep them fluffy. Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy layers can separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes instead of Key limes?
Absolutely! Regular lime juice works just fine and still gives a delicious tang—Key limes have a slightly different flavor, but both are tasty.

Can I make this trifle in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the trifle a day ahead! Just wait to add the whipped cream topping and garnishes until ready to serve.

Is there a gluten-free version?
Swap graham crackers for gluten-free cookies or graham crackers to make this dessert gluten-free.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
You can, but homemade whipped cream gives a fresher taste and fluffier texture.

What if I don’t have a trifle bowl?
No worries! Use any large glass dish or even individual cups or mason jars for a fun, portable version.

Conclusion

Key Lime Pie Trifle proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen to create a dessert that dazzles. With its creamy lime filling, buttery crumbs, and billowy whipped cream, each bite is a sweet, tangy escape. Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead showstopper for your next party or a simple weeknight treat, this recipe checks every box. Don’t forget to explore other easy desserts on the blog like the No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits for more “wow” moments. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a taste of sunshine—happy layering!