Craving a taste of sunshine in a small package? These delightful Key Lime Pie Jars are perfect mini dessert recipes for any occasion. You’ll love how easy they are to assemble and how refreshing they taste.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: You can use pre-made crumbs or crush whole graham crackers yourself.
- Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled 100% Key lime juice works too. Avoid regular lime juice for the authentic flavor.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: No substitutes for this crucial ingredient.
- Heavy Cream: Whipping cream also works perfectly.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup Key lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
For the Whipped Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Garnish:
- Lime slices or extra lime zest
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus 2 hours chilling)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 6 mini dessert recipes
- Tools Needed: 6 small jars (4-6 oz), mixing bowls, electric mixer, rubber spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust
Combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Mix until well combined and the crumbs are moistened. Press about 2 tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each jar.
2. Make the Key Lime Filling
In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, Key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth and slightly thickened. This no-bake filling comes together quickly.
3. Assemble the Jars
Pour the Key lime filling over the graham cracker crust in each jar, filling them about two-thirds of the way. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is set. This chilling time is essential for the mini dessert recipes.
4. Prepare the Whipped Topping
In a clean, chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat.
5. Finish and Serve
Once the Key lime filling is set, top each jar with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with a lime slice or extra lime zest if desired. Serve these delightful mini dessert recipes chilled.
Variation Ideas:
- Tropical Twist: Add a thin layer of crushed pineapple or mango puree before the Key lime filling.
- Chocolate Crust: Substitute chocolate wafer crumbs for graham crackers for a richer base.
- Berry Burst: Top with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for added color and flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Key Lime Pie Jars in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The whipped topping is best when fresh, so if making ahead, consider adding it just before serving. Do not freeze these mini dessert recipes, as the texture can become grainy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you use regular lime juice? While you can, Key lime juice provides a distinct, tarter flavor that is characteristic of Key lime pie.
- Do these need to be baked? No, these Key Lime Pie Jars are a no-bake mini dessert recipe, perfect for easy preparation.
- How do you prevent the crust from getting soggy? Ensure your melted butter is fully incorporated into the crumbs, and press the crust firmly. Chilling also helps set it.
- Can you make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the crust and filling up to 2 days in advance. Add the whipped topping just before serving.
- What kind of jars should you use? Any small jars, such as 4-oz or 6-oz canning jars, work perfectly for these individual mini dessert recipes.
- What if the filling doesn’t set? Ensure your sweetened condensed milk is fresh and you used proper Key lime juice. Chilling for at least 2 hours is crucial.