If you’re searching for a showstopping summer sweet that’s pure sunshine in a bowl, Key Lime Pie Trifle is the treat you need. Velvety layers of tangy lime filling, fluffy whipped cream, and buttery graham cracker crumbs come together for a dessert that’s part classic key lime pie and part no-fuss trifle. It’s got all the zippy, tropical flavor you crave, none of the oven heat, and is staggeringly easy to assemble for a crowd. This is one dessert guaranteed to disappear first at any gathering!

Key Lime Pie Trifle Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Key Lime Pie Trifle plays its part to create those irresistible layers—from sweet, creamy, and tart to crunchy and buttery. While the ingredient list is straightforward, don’t skimp on quality here; each one brings its own magic to the final bite.

Graham crackers: These crushed crackers form the classic “crust,” adding a warm, nutty crunch in every layer.
Granulated sugar: Just a hint sweetens the graham cracker crumbs and helps them hold together like a traditional pie base.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs and gives them irresistible richness; make sure it’s unsalted so you control the flavor.
Sweetened condensed milk: This canned magic is the backbone of the creamy filling, bringing sweetness and body.
Fresh key lime juice: The signature tartness—always go fresh if you can for the brightest, zingiest flavor!
Key lime zest: Don’t skip the zest; it brings that unmistakable floral, citrusy punch.
Heavy whipping cream: Whipped into clouds, this cream delivers ultimate richness and lightness at once.
Powdered sugar: Used to give the whipped cream its sweetness without grit, making it silky-smooth.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash deepens the flavor and complements the tart limes beautifully.
Key lime curd (optional): For an extra burst of lime flavor between the layers, key lime curd is an absolute treat.
Additional lime slices and zest (for garnish): These add sparkle and visual pop to every serving—don’t skimp on the garnish!

How to Make Key Lime Pie Trifle

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Layer

Start by combining your graham cracker crumbs, a touch of sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Stir until the mixture looks like wet sand—every crumb should be nicely coated, which ensures each bite will have that buttery crunch reminiscent of a classic pie crust. Set this mixture aside as you move on to the filling; it comes together in a snap and you want it ready for quick layering.

Step 2: Prepare the Key Lime Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh key lime juice, and all that fragrant key lime zest. Whisk until you have a completely smooth, thickened filling. This is the flavor powerhouse of the trifle and where that signature Key Lime Pie Trifle tang comes from! Take a quick taste—if you love extra tartness, add an extra squeeze of juice.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

Next, whip up your cream. Pour heavy whipping cream into a bowl with powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat with a mixer until stiff peaks form. You’re looking for a cloudlike texture that will hold its shape between layers. The homemade whipped cream is worth it, creating a gorgeous, airy contrast to the rich lime layer—your spoon will thank you.

Step 4: Assemble the Trifle

The magic happens in the assembly! Begin by layering a third of the graham cracker mix on the bottom of your trifle dish or glass bowl. Spoon on a third of the key lime filling, then a third of the whipped cream. For a special punch, dollop a thin layer of key lime curd on top of the filling (totally optional, but so good). Continue layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a lofty sweep of whipped cream on top. Each layer should be distinct but beautifully melded together.

Step 5: Garnish and Chill

Scatter extra lime zest over the top and add a few delicate lime slices for brightness and wow-factor. Refrigerate your finished Key Lime Pie Trifle for at least two hours—this chilling time is crucial for melding the flavors and letting those layers set up so every serving is picture-perfect.

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Trifle

Garnishes

No Key Lime Pie Trifle is complete without those finishing touches. Top each serving with a flourish of extra whipped cream, a jaunty twist of lime zest, and paper-thin lime slices for a burst of color and a hint of drama. If you really want to impress, add edible flowers or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers on top just before serving for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Because this dessert is delightfully rich and zingy, it pairs beautifully with lighter sides like fresh berries or a simple fruit salad. For a summery spread, set out an array of tropical fruits—think sliced mangoes, pineapple, or kiwi. Iced tea, cold brew coffee, or even mojitos are fantastic accompaniments, especially at backyard gatherings or picnics.

Creative Ways to Present

Key Lime Pie Trifle looks gorgeous served in a large, clear trifle dish, but don’t be afraid to get creative! For parties, you can layer it in mini mason jars, stemless wine glasses, or even parfait glasses—perfect for individual servings that look as good as they taste. For an outdoor barbecue, scoop it into little cups for easy, no-fuss sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Key Lime Pie Trifle will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover your dish tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to keep those layers fresh. The graham cracker crumbs will soften slightly, but the flavors will only get better as they mingle—some say day two is even more delicious!

Freezing

You can freeze Key Lime Pie Trifle in a pinch, but be aware the texture will change—especially the whipped cream, which may lose some of its fluff when thawed. For longer-term storage, freeze individual servings in airtight containers for up to one month. Thaw gently in the fridge before serving and give a quick whip if you’d like to refresh the cream.

Reheating

This is a chill-and-serve dessert, so there’s no need to reheat. In fact, Key Lime Pie Trifle tastes its absolute best served cold straight from the fridge. If you find the cream or filling is too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften ever so slightly before digging in.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Absolutely! While key limes are famous for their delicate tartness, regular Persian limes work beautifully in this trifle. Just add a bit of extra zest to amp up the flavor if you like a stronger citrus punch.

Is there a shortcut for the whipped cream?

Totally—store-bought whipped topping can stand in for homemade if you’re in a hurry or need a make-ahead option. While nothing beats freshly whipped cream, the pre-made version keeps the process quick and easy.

What size bowl should I use for layering?

A classic trifle bowl is about 3 to 4 quarts, but any large, clear glass bowl works. If you want to make individual Key Lime Pie Trifles, use 8-ounce jars or glasses for adorable, personal desserts.

Can I make Key Lime Pie Trifle gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the graham crackers for your favorite gluten-free variety, and all the other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Everyone at your table can dig in, worry-free!

What’s the best way to juice key limes?

Key limes are tiny, so a handheld citrus juicer is your best friend. Roll them on the counter before slicing to release more juice, and don’t forget to zest them first for maximum flavor!

Final Thoughts

There’s just something downright magical about a big, billowy bowl of Key Lime Pie Trifle—each spoonful is tart, sweet, creamy, and utterly satisfying. If you’ve got a reason to celebrate or simply want a taste of summer any time, I can’t recommend this dessert enough. Gather your ingredients, layer it up, and get ready to watch everyone rave about your newfound favorite treat!

Key Lime Pie Trifle Recipe

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4.8 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of a Key Lime Pie Trifle, a delightful twist on the classic dessert in a layered presentation that is perfect for entertaining or a special treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

12 graham crackers, crushed into fine crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Key Lime Filling:

2 cans (14 ounces each) sweetened condensed milk
1 cup fresh key lime juice
1 tablespoon key lime zest

Whipped Cream Layer:

2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Additional:

1 cup key lime curd (optional)
Additional lime slices and zest for garnish

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Instructions

Graham Cracker Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix well and set aside.
Key Lime Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and key lime zest until smooth.
Whipped Cream Layer: In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Assembly: Layer graham cracker mixture, key lime filling, whipped cream, and optional key lime curd in a trifle dish. Repeat layers. Garnish with lime slices and zest. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.