This Key Lime Pie Lush Recipe is a dreamy, no-bake layered dessert bursting with zesty citrus flavor and smooth, creamy textures. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a fluffy whipped cream cheese filling, and a tangy-sweet key lime pudding layer, this dessert brings all the tropical brightness of key lime pie—without turning on the oven. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for spring and summer gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a cool and citrusy treat.
Ingredients
Crust:
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1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
Cream Cheese Layer:
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8 oz cream cheese (softened)
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2 cups heavy whipping cream (whipped to stiff peaks)
Key Lime Layer:
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1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
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½ cup key lime juice
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1 tbsp key lime zest
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1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding
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1¾ cups cold milk
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in the melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes while preparing the other layers.
Step 2: Make the cream cheese layer
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Fold in the whipped heavy cream gently until fully incorporated. Spread the mixture evenly over the chilled crust and return to the fridge.
Step 3: Prepare the key lime layer
In a clean bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and zest. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk, whisking until smooth and thickened (about 2–3 minutes). Let it sit for another 5 minutes to firm up slightly.
Step 4: Layer the key lime mixture
Spread the key lime pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Chill and set
Refrigerate the assembled lush for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to fully set and the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Before serving, top with whipped cream, extra lime zest, lime slices, or graham cracker crumbs if desired. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Variation
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Coconut Key Lime Lush: Add shredded coconut to the crust or sprinkle on top
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Chocolate Crust: Use chocolate cookie crumbs for a richer base
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Meringue Top: Pipe toasted meringue on top for a pie-inspired twist
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a celiac-safe option
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Extra Tart: Use fresh lime juice with extra zest for a punchier citrus profile
Cooking Note
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Use cold ingredients for the pudding to help it set quickly and smoothly
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Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks before folding for the fluffiest texture
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Chill thoroughly before slicing for clean, layered servings
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For easier slicing, run a knife under hot water between cuts
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Fresh key limes give the best flavor, but bottled key lime juice works too
Tips
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Prepare 1 day ahead for best results—flavors deepen as it rests
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Fold, don’t stir, whipped cream into the cream cheese to preserve airiness
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Don’t over-whisk the pudding or it may get too thick before spreading
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Serve with a dollop of extra whipped cream and a lime twist for presentation
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Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 servings)
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Calories: 410
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Protein: 6g
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Fat: 24g
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Carbohydrates: 42g
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Sugar: 28g
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Sodium: 190mg
Note: May vary depending on brands and portion size
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert is perfect for making a day in advance—it sets beautifully and the flavors intensify overnight.
What if I don’t have key lime juice?
You can substitute with regular lime juice, but key lime juice gives a more distinct, aromatic tartness.
Do I have to use instant pudding?
Instant pudding is key for quick setting. Avoid cook-and-serve pudding as it may not set properly without heat.
Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream?
Yes, substitute 2 cups of thawed Cool Whip for the whipped cream in the cream cheese layer for convenience.
Can this be frozen?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container, and thaw in the fridge before serving. The texture may soften slightly after thawing.
Conclusion
This Key Lime Pie Lush Recipe is the ultimate make-ahead dessert for warm-weather occasions. Layered with a buttery graham cracker crust, fluffy cream cheese, and tangy lime pudding, every bite is light, creamy, and refreshing. It’s easy to make, stunning to serve, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch, summer BBQ, or need a citrusy treat that wows, this no-bake dessert delivers cool satisfaction in every slice.
Print
Key Lime Pie Lush Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 25min
Ingredients
Ingredients
Crust:
-
1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
-
¼ cup granulated sugar
-
½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
Cream Cheese Layer:
-
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
-
1 cup powdered sugar
-
2 cups heavy whipping cream (whipped to stiff peaks)
Key Lime Layer:
-
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
-
½ cup key lime juice
-
1 tbsp key lime zest
-
1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding
-
1¾ cups cold milk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in the melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes while preparing the other layers.
Step 2: Make the cream cheese layer
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Fold in the whipped heavy cream gently until fully incorporated. Spread the mixture evenly over the chilled crust and return to the fridge.
Step 3: Prepare the key lime layer
In a clean bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and zest. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk, whisking until smooth and thickened (about 2–3 minutes). Let it sit for another 5 minutes to firm up slightly.
Step 4: Layer the key lime mixture
Spread the key lime pudding layer evenly over the cream cheese layer. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Chill and set
Refrigerate the assembled lush for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to fully set and the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Before serving, top with whipped cream, extra lime zest, lime slices, or graham cracker crumbs if desired. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
-
Use cold ingredients for the pudding to help it set quickly and smoothly
-
Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks before folding for the fluffiest texture
-
Chill thoroughly before slicing for clean, layered servings
-
For easier slicing, run a knife under hot water between cuts
-
Fresh key limes give the best flavor, but bottled key lime juice works too
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 4 hours
Nutrition
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Protein: 6 g