Creamy No-Bake Key Lime Pie Trifle

Ingredients

• 2 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 16 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
• 0.75 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
• 1 tbsp lime zest
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
• 0.25 cup powdered sugar
• lime slices (for garnish)

Steps

1. 1

   In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Set aside.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.

3. 3

   Gradually pour in the sweetened condensed milk while continuing to beat until fully combined and smooth.

4. 4

   Stir in the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until the mixture is thickened and well incorporated.

5. 5

   In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

6. 6

   Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the key lime cream cheese mixture until no white streaks remain. Reserve the other half of the whipped cream for layering.

7. 7

   To assemble the trifle, place a layer of graham cracker crumbs at the bottom of a trifle dish or large glass bowl.

8. 8

   Add a layer of the key lime filling over the crumbs, spreading it evenly to the edges.

9. 9

   Add a thin layer of the reserved plain whipped cream.

10. 10

    Repeat the layers (crumbs, lime filling, whipped cream) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.

11. 11

    Garnish the top with extra graham cracker crumbs, lime zest, or thin lime slices.

12. 12

    Refrigerate the trifle for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

For the best flavor, use fresh key limes rather than standard Persian limes. If you cannot find key limes, a bottled key lime juice (like Nellie & Joe's) is a great substitute. This dessert can be made up to 24 hours in advance.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• no-bake
• key lime
• trifle
• summer
• pudding
• vegetarian