Craving a bright, zesty dessert that comes together without turning on your oven? This Key Lime Icebox Tart is the perfect solution for a delightful, easy no bake cake recipe that’s refreshingly tangy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: You can substitute with crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for a different crust flavor.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Essential for the creamy texture. There’s no direct substitution for its unique properties in this no bake cake recipe.
- Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for that authentic tartness; bottled Key lime juice works in a pinch.
- Cream Cheese: Use full-fat for the richest, most stable filling.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh Key lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest (from about 2 Key limes)
Optional Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Lime slices or extra lime zest
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (it’s a no bake cake recipe!)
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 420 calories
- Tools Needed: 9-inch pie dish, mixing bowls, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Crust
Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. This forms the foundation of your no bake cake recipe.
2. Make the Filling Base
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy. This ensures a lump-free and creamy tart filling.
3. Combine Filling Ingredients
Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese, beating until well combined. Slowly mix in the Key lime juice and lime zest until the mixture is smooth and thick. Avoid overmixing once the lime juice is added.
4. Assemble and Chill
Pour the Key lime filling into your prepared graham cracker crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Refrigerate the tart for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until it is firmly set. This chilling step is crucial for any no bake cake recipe.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once firm, slice and serve your delicious Key Lime Icebox Tart. Garnish each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a thin lime slice or extra zest, if desired.
Variation Ideas:
- Tropical Twist: Add a tablespoon of shredded coconut to the crust mixture.
- Chocolate Crust: Use crushed chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers for a richer base.
- Berry Topping: Serve with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Key Lime Icebox Tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices for up to one month, allowing them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can, but fresh Key lime juice will give you the best, most authentic tart flavor for this no bake cake recipe.
Q: Why is my tart not setting?
A: Ensure your cream cheese was softened, and the tart was chilled for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The sweetened condensed milk and chilling are key to setting.
Q: Can I make this in individual ramekins?
A: Absolutely! Adjust the chilling time slightly, and they make wonderful individual no bake cake recipe desserts.
Q: Do I need an electric mixer?
A: While an electric mixer makes beating the cream cheese easier, you can achieve a smooth filling with a whisk and some effort.
Q: Can I use regular limes instead of Key limes?
A: Yes, you can use regular limes. The flavor will be slightly less intense and tart, but it will still be delicious.
Q: How do I get clean slices?
A: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between each slice for the neatest presentation of your no bake cake recipe.