Key Lime Pie Trifle

Key Lime Pie Trifle

Key Lime Pie Trifle is a delightful twist on a classic dessert that offers a burst of tangy lime flavor complemented by creamy layers of sweetness. This no-bake treat brings together the refreshing taste of key limes with the lusciousness of cream cheese and whipped cream, all nestled atop a crunchy base of graham crackers. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is not only easy to make but also serves as a nostalgic reminder of summer days spent with family. With simple ingredients and a step-by-step guide, you’ll create a comforting masterpiece that will win over your guests and delight your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about the Key Lime Pie Trifle is its simple preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip it up quickly and effortlessly. The beautiful layers make it an impressive centerpiece for any gathering, while the combination of flavors appeals to everyone, from children to adults. It’s a crowd-pleaser that resonates with memories of barbecues and family gatherings. Plus, as a no-bake recipe, it’s perfect for warm weather when you want dessert without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

To create this luscious Key Lime Pie Trifle, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup heavy cream: For a rich and velvety texture.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: To sweeten the whipped cream without the graininess of granulated sugar.
• 1 cup fresh whipped cream (for topping): Aura of lightness and fluffiness.
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice: The true star, providing that bold citrus kick.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm aroma and depth of flavor.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter: Brings everything together with a bit of richness.
• Zest of 2 limes: For an added layer of citrus flavor.
• 1 package (10 oz) graham crackers, crushed: Crispy and crunchy texture.
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: For smooth sweetness that balances the tartness of lime.
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: Creaminess that enhances the overall texture.
• Lime slices + extra zest (for garnish): Beautiful finishing touches that make it visually appealing.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the perfect trifle, creating layers that are visually stunning and altogether delicious.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Lime Cream Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it’s smooth and well-combined.

2. Whip the Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, pour the heavy cream and add the powdered sugar. Whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This step is key for a light and airy texture in your trifle.

3. Fold in the Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture. Use a spatula to ensure that it remains fluffy while fully incorporating the ingredients.

4. Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust: In another bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter. Mix well until all the crumbs are evenly coated.

5. Layer the Trifle: Select a clear trifle dish to showcase the beautiful layers. Start with a layer of the graham cracker mixture at the bottom. Then, add a generous layer of the lime cream mixture on top. Repeat these layers until all your ingredients are used up, finishing with a lime cream layer on top.

6. Add the Whipped Cream Topping: Pipe or spread the remaining whipped cream over the last layer of lime cream.

7. Garnish and Chill: Decorate with lime slices and extra lime zest for a vibrant finish. Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set before serving.

Following these detailed, vivid steps ensures that your Key Lime Pie Trifle will be a memorable dessert for any event.

Tips & Tricks

• Use Fresh Limes: For the best flavor, opt for fresh limes instead of bottled lime juice.
• Chill the Bowls: If you chill your mixing bowls and beaters before whipping the cream, it can help achieve better peaks.
• Layer Creatively: You can create unique designs by layering the ingredients in individual cups instead of a large trifle dish for personal servings.
• Opt for Low-Fat Ingredients: If you want a lighter dessert, consider using low-fat cream cheese and whipped topping.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Key Lime Pie Trifle can stand out as the show-stopper in any dessert table lineup. It’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings, BBQs, and potluck events. Pair it with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade to enhance the citrus notes. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit salads or lighter meals to balance the richness of the dessert.

Nutritional Information

A single serving of Key Lime Pie Trifle contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 3g

Remember that enjoying such a delightful dessert in moderation is key to a balanced diet.

Storing Tips & Variations

To store, cover the Key Lime Pie Trifle with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days, but the graham cracker layers may lose their crunch over time. If you want to freeze the trifle, consider freezing the individual layers separately to maintain texture when thawed.

For variations, consider experimenting with other flavors such as lemon or orange. You might also substitute coconut cream for a tropical twist or use different types of cookies for the crust like vanilla wafers or gingersnaps.

Conclusion

Now that you have this delicious Key Lime Pie Trifle recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get started! This dessert is sure to impress and will have everyone coming back for seconds. We encourage you to share your experience and feedback after making this delightful treat. Happy baking!

FAQs

1. Can I make this trifle in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Key Lime Pie Trifle a day ahead of time. Just make sure to wrap it securely and store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

2. What can I use instead of cream cheese?
For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese, though it will change the flavor slightly.

3. How do I know when the whipped cream is ready?
Whipped cream is ready when it has formed stiff peaks. This means that when you pull the whisk out, the cream holds its shape without drooping.

4. Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought whipped topping can be a great shortcut for this recipe.

5. Is it necessary to chill the trifle?
Yes, chilling the trifle allows the flavors to meld together and helps it set properly before serving.

With these steps and tips, your Key Lime Pie Trifle is bound to become a treasured favorite at your gatherings! Enjoy every bite of this fantastic dessert!

Print Recipe

Key Lime Pie Trifle

A delightful no-bake dessert combining tangy lime flavor with creamy layers, all atop a crunchy graham cracker base. Perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes mins

Total Time2 hours hrs

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Key Lime Pie Trifle, Lime Dessert, no-bake dessert, Summer Dessert, Trifle

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

Lime Cream Mixture

• 1 cup heavy cream For a rich and velvety texture.
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice The true star, providing that bold citrus kick.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds a warm aroma and depth of flavor.
• 2 zest of limes For an added layer of citrus flavor.
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened Creaminess that enhances the overall texture.
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk For smooth sweetness that balances the tartness of lime.

Whipped Cream

• 1 cup fresh whipped cream Aura of lightness and fluffiness.
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar To sweeten the whipped cream without the graininess of granulated sugar.

Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 package (10 oz) graham crackers, crushed Crispy and crunchy texture.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter Brings everything together with a bit of richness.

Garnish

• to taste lime slices + extra zest Beautiful finishing touches that make it visually appealing.

Instructions

Preparation

• In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it’s smooth and well-combined.
• In a separate bowl, pour the heavy cream and add the powdered sugar. Whip the cream until stiff peaks form.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture until fully incorporated.
• In another bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter and mix well until all the crumbs are evenly coated.

Assembly

• Select a clear trifle dish and start with a layer of the graham cracker mixture at the bottom.
• Add a generous layer of the lime cream mixture on top.
• Repeat these layers until all your ingredients are used, finishing with a lime cream layer on top.
• Pipe or spread the remaining whipped cream over the last layer of lime cream.
• Decorate with lime slices and extra lime zest for a vibrant finish.
• Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Use fresh limes for the best flavor. Chill your mixing bowls for better whipped cream peaks. Consider using low-fat ingredients for a lighter dessert. Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Can freeze layers separately.