Description
These Key Lime Pie Jars offer a delightful twist on the classic dessert, layering a crunchy graham cracker crust with a smooth and tangy key lime filling topped with whipped cream. Perfect for individual servings, they combine the bright citrus flavor of key limes with creamy sweetness in convenient, charming jars.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full crackers, crushed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest (from key limes or regular limes)
- 1 cup heavy cream, whipped (or 2 cups whipped topping)
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
- Extra lime zest (for garnish)
- Graham cracker crumbs or lime slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until thoroughly combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of 6-8 (8 oz) mason jars or dessert cups, using about 2-3 tablespoons per jar to form a firm crust layer.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Gently fold in the whipped heavy cream or whipped topping until fully incorporated, creating a light and creamy filling.
- Assemble the Jars: Spoon the key lime filling over the prepared crusts in each jar, filling each about two-thirds full (approximately 1/3 cup per jar depending on jar size).
- Add Topping: Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top of each jar, spreading it evenly to cover the filling and add a creamy finish.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle extra lime zest and a pinch of graham cracker crumbs on top, or add a small lime slice for an attractive garnish. Refrigerate the jars for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve: Enjoy these refreshing Key Lime Pie Jars chilled directly from the jars with a spoon, making for a fun and easy-to-serve dessert.
Notes
- You can substitute regular lime juice and zest if key limes are unavailable, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- The dessert can be made up to one day in advance and kept covered in the refrigerator for convenience.
- For a lighter topping, use whipped topping instead of heavy cream.
- If you prefer a firmer crust, you can press the crust mixture and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes before filling, then cool completely.
- Adjust the amount of sugar if you prefer a less sweet crust.
