Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mini Key Lime Pie Bites combine the best parts of a classic Key lime pie in a small, bite-sized form, making them perfect for parties, gatherings, or a sweet treat at home. The balance of the buttery graham cracker crust, zesty lime filling, and light whipped cream is irresistible. Plus, they are quick and easy to make with no baking required. If you love the refreshing tartness of Key lime pie but want something more fun and easy to serve, these mini bites are a must-try!

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons sugar
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 3-4 limes)
1 teaspoon lime zest
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the topping:

Whipped cream (for garnish)
Lime wedges or zest (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the graham cracker mixture into each mini muffin cup (or silicone mini muffin pan). Use a spoon or the back of a glass to press the crumbs down firmly to form a crust.
Make the filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until fully combined and smooth.
Spoon the lime filling over the graham cracker crust in each muffin cup, filling each about 2/3 of the way.
Refrigerate the mini pies for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is set and firm.
Serve: Once the mini pies are set, top each one with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a lime wedge or a sprinkle of lime zest.
Enjoy your mini Key lime pie bites!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 12-16 mini pies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Crust Variations: Use graham cracker crumbs mixed with coconut flakes for a tropical twist or swap out the graham crackers for vanilla wafer cookies.
No-Bake Option: If you want an even easier option, you can use a store-bought mini graham cracker crust for each bite.
Sweetener Swap: You can replace the sweetened condensed milk with a non-dairy version or use a sugar substitute if you’d like to reduce the sweetness.
Dairy-Free Version: Use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute and a dairy-free whipped topping to make these bites completely dairy-free.
Add Fruit: Top the bites with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a fruity addition to the tart lime flavor.

Storage/Reheating

These mini Key Lime Pie Bites should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month. To thaw, simply transfer them to the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. Note that the whipped cream topping may soften a bit after freezing, but the pies will still taste great.

FAQs

1. Can I make these mini Key Lime Pie Bites ahead of time?

Yes, these mini pies need to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, so they can be made ahead of time. They can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge.

2. Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?

Fresh lime juice will give the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch if you don’t have fresh limes.

3. Can I make these mini Key Lime Pie Bites without sweetened condensed milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is a key ingredient for the creamy filling, but if you need a substitute, you could use coconut milk and add your preferred sweetener to achieve a similar texture.

4. Can I freeze mini Key Lime Pie Bites?

Yes, these mini pies freeze well. Place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving.

5. Can I use regular whipped cream instead of store-bought topping?

Yes, homemade whipped cream works beautifully as a topping. Just whip some heavy cream with a little sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

6. How can I make the crust more flavorful?

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the graham cracker crumbs for an extra layer of flavor. You can also add a little bit of shredded coconut for a tropical touch.

7. How do I know when the filling is set?

The filling should be firm to the touch after refrigerating for at least 2 hours. It should hold its shape when you remove the mini pies from the muffin pan.

8. Can I make these without a muffin tin?

If you don’t have a mini muffin tin, you can use small silicone molds or shape the crust and filling by hand, though a muffin tin ensures a neat and uniform shape.

9. Can I use lime juice from a bottle instead of fresh limes?

Fresh lime juice is best for flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch. Be sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best taste.

10. Can I make mini Key Lime Pie Bites gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or a gluten-free cookie crumb mixture to make these bites gluten-free.

Conclusion

Mini Key Lime Pie Bites are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that captures the refreshing flavor of a classic Key lime pie in a bite-sized form. With a buttery graham cracker crust, tangy lime filling, and creamy whipped topping, they’re perfect for parties, picnics, or just an indulgent snack. Whether you make them ahead of time or serve them on the spot, these mini desserts are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the bold and tangy flavor of Key lime. Enjoy this fun and tasty twist on a classic favorite!