If you’re craving a dessert that’s equal parts tangy, creamy, and utterly irresistible, this Key Lime Pie Trifle is about to become your new obsession. Imagine luscious layers of zesty key lime filling, pillowy whipped cream, buttery graham cracker crumbs, and crunchy shortbread cookies — all nestled together in a show-stopping, no-bake treat. It’s like summer in a glass, delivering all the classic flavors of key lime pie, but with the fun and ease of a trifle. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or just want to enjoy a spoonful of sunshine, this Key Lime Pie Trifle will steal the spotlight and your heart.

Key Lime Pie Trifle Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Key Lime Filling
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 ½ cups cold milk
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
Whipped Cream
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Crust and Layers
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 ½ cups crushed shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers
- Extra lime slices or zest for garnish (optional)

How to Make Key Lime Pie Trifle

Step 1: Prepare the Key Lime Filling

Start by whisking the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk in a medium bowl. Once the mixture is smooth and thickened (this only takes a couple of minutes), add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest. Mix everything together until you have a silky, perfectly tangy filling. This is the heart of your Key Lime Pie Trifle, so don’t be afraid to sneak a little taste!

Step 2: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or a stand mixer to whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Whip just until soft peaks form — this means when you lift the beaters, the cream softly holds its shape. The lightness of homemade whipped cream elevates the whole trifle, making each bite feel luxurious.

Step 3: Lighten the Filling

Take half of your freshly whipped cream and gently fold it into the key lime filling. This step adds volume and a mousse-like texture to the citrusy center, making it absolutely dreamy. Be gentle so you keep all that lovely airiness.

Step 4: Make the Graham Cracker Base

Combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter in a clean bowl. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened and looks like wet sand. This layer gives the trifle its signature pie crust flavor and a hint of crunch in every spoonful.

Step 5: Assemble the Trifle

Now for the fun part! In a large trifle dish or individual glasses, start by layering some of the graham cracker mixture on the bottom. Add a generous layer of the key lime filling, then sprinkle over a handful of crushed shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers. Top that with a layer of whipped cream. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a crown of whipped cream on top. The result? A gorgeous Key Lime Pie Trifle that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 6: Chill and Garnish

Pop the assembled trifle into the fridge for at least two hours. This step lets the flavors mingle and the layers set up beautifully. Just before serving, add extra lime zest or slices to the top for a burst of color and a hint of fresh citrus.

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Trifle

Garnishes

For a show-stopping finish, scatter a little more lime zest or arrange thin lime slices on top. A sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs or a few whole shortbread cookies also makes the Key Lime Pie Trifle look bakery-worthy. If you’re feeling fancy, a few edible flowers or mint leaves can add a pop of color and elegance.

Side Dishes

Since the Key Lime Pie Trifle is vibrant and citrusy, it pairs beautifully with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries on the side. If you’re serving it at a party, a platter of tropical fruit or a light fruit salad will complement the tangy sweetness without overpowering it. For a bit of crunch, a bowl of candied nuts or white chocolate-dipped pretzels are always a hit.

Creative Ways to Present

This trifle is as versatile as it is delicious! Layer it in a big glass trifle bowl for a dramatic centerpiece, or make individual servings in mason jars or stemless wine glasses for a picnic. For parties, try mini Key Lime Pie Trifles in shot glasses or dessert cups — they’re adorable and easy to grab. You can even layer the components in a clear loaf pan for easy slicing and serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s rare!), simply cover the trifle tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen as it chills, but the cookies and crumbs may soften over time.

Freezing

While the Key Lime Pie Trifle is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions if needed. Wrap individual servings tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before eating. Keep in mind the texture of the whipped cream may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still shine.

Reheating

This dessert doesn’t need reheating (in fact, it’s best served cold!), so just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes if it’s been chilled for a long time. The creamy layers will loosen up, making it even more luscious and spoonable.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Absolutely! While key limes have a distinct aroma and tartness, regular Persian limes work beautifully in this Key Lime Pie Trifle. The result will still be wonderfully tangy and refreshing, so use what’s readily available.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, and it’s actually even better when made ahead! Assemble the trifle up to a day in advance and let it chill in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld and the layers to set up perfectly for serving.

What can I use instead of shortbread cookies?

If you don’t have shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers, feel free to use ladyfingers, gingersnaps, or even plain butter cookies. Each will add its own twist to the Key Lime Pie Trifle.

How do I get clean, beautiful layers?

For the most striking presentation, use a clear glass dish and gently spoon or pipe each layer. Wipe down the inside edges with a paper towel between layers if needed for crisp lines. Individual cups also help keep layers neat and tidy.

Is there a dairy-free version?

To make a dairy-free Key Lime Pie Trifle, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, dairy-free pudding mix, and a plant-based condensed milk. Substitute vegan butter and cookies, and you’ll have a dessert everyone can enjoy!

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about sharing a Key Lime Pie Trifle with friends and family — the way those bright, creamy layers come together feels downright celebratory. If you’ve never tried this twist on a classic pie, I promise it’s about to become your new warm-weather favorite. Grab a spoon, dig in, and let every bite transport you somewhere sunny!

Key Lime Pie Trifle Recipe

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4.8 from 22 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing and easy no-bake dessert featuring layers of tangy key lime pudding, crunchy graham cracker crumbs, buttery shortbread cookies, and fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a bright, citrusy treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Key Lime Filling

1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 ½ cups cold milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
½ cup key lime juice
1 tablespoon lime zest

Whipped Cream

1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Crust and Layers

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
4 tablespoons melted butter
1 ½ cups crushed shortbread cookies or vanilla wafers
Extra lime slices or zest for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Pudding: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened. Then add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest. Mix until fully combined and smooth.
Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This will add lightness and creaminess to the filling.
Combine Filling and Whipped Cream: Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the key lime mixture to lighten the texture and create a fluffy filling layer.
Prepare Graham Cracker Mixture: In another bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter, mixing until the crumbs are evenly moistened to form a crunchy base.
Assemble the Trifle: In a large trifle dish or individual glasses, start layering by spreading a portion of the graham cracker mixture on the bottom. Follow with a layer of key lime filling, then a layer of crushed shortbread cookies, and finally a layer of whipped cream. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of whipped cream.
Garnish and Chill: Garnish with extra lime zest or lime slices if desired. Cover and chill the trifle in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and layers to set before serving.

Notes

This trifle can be made up to 1 day in advance for best flavor and texture.
For a shortcut, replace homemade whipped cream with store-bought whipped topping.
If key lime juice is unavailable, substitute with regular lemon juice for a similar tart flavor.
Layering can be done in individual serving glasses for easy portion control and presentation.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American