Key Lime Pie Jars

Sunlight streamed through the kitchen window as I rummaged through my pantry, searching for inspiration. My eyes landed on a forgotten bag of graham crackers, and memories of a beachside café in Florida came flooding back—the tangy sweetness of key lime pie, the crunch of the crust, the coolness of the whipped topping. With no plans to bake a full pie, I decided to recreate that experience in a more manageable form: Key Lime Pie Jars.

The idea of layering the familiar flavors into individual jars felt both nostalgic and innovative. As I crushed the graham crackers and mixed them with melted butter, the scent transported me back to that sunny afternoon by the ocean.

The creamy lime filling came together effortlessly, its zesty aroma filling the kitchen. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sliver of lime, each jar became a personal escape to a tropical paradise.

Short Description

These no-bake Key Lime Pie Jars feature layers of buttery graham cracker crust, tangy lime filling, and fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a treat-yourself moment at home.

Ingredients

Crust

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

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
• Green gel food coloring (optional)

Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Lime slices or zest curls for garnish

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowls​
• Whisk​
• Hand mixer or stand mixer​
• Measuring cups and spoons​
• Small jars (6–8 oz)
• Piping bag or spoon for topping

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.​

Step 2: Assemble the Crust in Jars

Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the crust mixture into each jar. Press down gently to form an even layer. Set aside.​

Step 3: Make the Lime Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, and green food coloring (if using) until smooth and creamy.​

Step 4: Add Filling to Jars

Divide the lime filling evenly among the jars, spooning it over the crust layer. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.​

Step 5: Chill the Jars

Refrigerate the jars for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld.​

Step 6: Whip the Cream

Just before serving, in a chilled bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, about 3–5 minutes.​

Step 7: Top and Garnish

Pipe or spoon the whipped cream onto each jar. Garnish with a thin slice of lime or a curl of lime zest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Individual Servings: Perfectly portioned for gatherings or personal indulgence.​

No-Bake Convenience: Simple preparation without the need for an oven.​

Refreshing Flavor: The tangy lime filling balances sweetness and tartness beautifully.​

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance for stress-free entertaining.​

Visually Appealing: Layered presentation adds a touch of elegance to any occasion.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Using Bottled Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice provides superior flavor. If unavailable, ensure bottled juice is 100% pure without additives.​

Overmixing Whipped Cream: Stop beating once stiff peaks form to prevent a grainy texture.​

Insufficient Chilling Time: Allow at least 2 hours for the filling to set properly.​

Overfilling Jars: Leave space for the whipped topping to avoid overflow.

Serving Suggestions

– Serve cold, straight from the fridge.
– Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut for tropical flair.
– Pair with iced tea, sparkling water, or dry white wine.
– Make it festive with colorful jar lids, ribbons, or personalized labels for parties or gifts.

Storage Tips

Fridge: Store jars in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezer: You can freeze the pie jars (without whipped cream) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Whipped cream: Best added fresh, but can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled key lime juice?
Yes, if it’s 100% pure juice—avoid blends with additives.

2. Is regular lime juice okay?
Definitely. The taste is slightly different but still tangy and refreshing.

3. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut cream instead of sour cream and dairy-free condensed milk.

4. What size jars should I use?
6–8 oz mason jars are ideal for perfect individual portions.

5. Can I add toppings?
Absolutely. Try crushed pistachios, toasted coconut, or white chocolate shavings.

Final Thought

These Key Lime Pie Jars are sunshine in dessert form—bright, creamy, and oh-so-easy to love. They’re made to share, but you might just keep one for yourself… or two. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, beach-themed party, or just a Tuesday afternoon, these jars will bring a little extra joy to your table.