No Bake Key Lime Pie {Easy & Creamy Dessert Recipe!}

This No Bake Key Lime Pie is cool, creamy, and bursting with tangy lime flavor—set in a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with fluffy whipped cream. A must-make summer treat!

If you’re anything like me, the last thing you want to do is turn on the oven when the weather warms up. That’s where this No Bake Key Lime Pie comes in—bright, creamy, and made entirely without baking! This refreshing dessert is the ultimate solution for summer cravings and laid-back entertaining.

This easy no bake key lime pie recipe is always a hit. It has a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth and tangy key lime filling, and fluffy whipped cream topping. Whether you serve it at a backyard BBQ, please bring it to a potluck, or treat your family to a cool dessert after dinner, this pie delivers sunshine in every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that work together to create the perfect creamy key lime pie with graham cracker crust. Here’s what you need:

For the Crust:

16 full sheets of graham crackers – finely crushed
8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter – melted
1/3 cup granulated sugar – to sweeten and bind the crust

For the Key Lime Filling:

16 oz cream cheese – softened to room temperature
2 cups sweetened condensed milk – adds richness and sweetness
1/2 cup key lime juice – fresh or bottled
1/3 cup granulated sugar – balances the tartness
1 tablespoon fresh lime zest – for a citrusy boost

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream – chilled
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar – to sweeten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for flavor
Key lime slices & extra zest – optional for garnish

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You already have most of these at home!

Food processor or zip-top bag + rolling pin
Mixing bowls
Hand or stand mixer
9-inch pie pan
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula or spoon

How to Make No Bake Key Lime Pie

This no-bake lime pie with condensed milk is a breeze to assemble, making you feel like a pro in the kitchen. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress your guests.

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs.

2. Mix crumbs with melted butter and sugar in a bowl.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie pan.

4. Chill in the freezer while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

1. Begin by zesting the limes. Use a rasp grater if you have one. Then, juice the limes with a citrus reamer.

2. Combine cream cheese, condensed milk, lime juice, sugar, and lime zest in a bowl. Mix with a hand or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.

4. Pour the filling into the chilled crust and spread evenly.

5. Chill in the freezer for the first hour, then place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

1. Whip the cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a cold bowl until stiff peaks form.

2. Pipe or spoon whipped cream around the edges of the pie.

3. Garnish with lime slices and zest.

Why This Is the Best No-Bake Key Lime Pie

This isn’t just any key lime pie without baking—it’s a creamy, dreamy twist on the traditional Florida favorite. What makes it stand out?

No baking is required! Perfect for hot summer days.
Rich yet refreshing. The cream cheese gives it a silky, cheesecake-like texture.
Make-ahead friendly. Chill it overnight and serve when ready.
Flexible! Use regular limes if key limes aren’t available.

Unlike some pies that need gelatin or eggs to set, this no-bake cheesecake key lime pie firms up beautifully thanks to the creamy condensed milk and time in the fridge.

Key Limes vs. Regular Limes

Let’s talk limes. Key limes are smaller, more tart, and have a floral aroma that’s perfect in desserts. But if they’re out of season or hard to find, regular limes work just fine! Add a bit of extra zest to boost flavor.

Can’t find fresh? Bottled key lime juice (like Nellie & Joe’s brand) is available at most grocery stores or online, and it works beautifully in this recipe.

Serving Ideas & Make-Ahead Tips

This pie is perfect for:

Summer BBQs or cookouts
Mother’s Day or Easter desserts
Picnics, potlucks, or birthdays
Weeknight family treats

Prepare and chill the night before for easy serving. Leftovers are kept in the fridge for 3–4 days. You can even freeze the pie (without whipped cream) for up to a month—thaw it in the refrigerator before serving. This make-ahead feature ensures you’re always ready for a sweet treat.

FAQs About No Bake Key Lime Pie

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes! Regular limes are a great substitute. Just use the same amount of juice and zest.

Can I make this pie dairy-free?

If you’d like to make this pie dairy-free, you can try substituting dairy-free cream cheese and coconut condensed milk. However, please note that the results may vary from the original recipe.

Why is my filling too soft?

Be sure to chill the pie long enough—overnight is best for a firm, sliceable filling.

More No-Bake Desserts You’ll Love

Looking for more summer no-bake desserts?

Oreo Dirt Cake {Easy, No Bake Dessert}

No Bake Mocha Icebox Cake

No Bake Lemon and Ricotta Cheesecake Bars

Final Thoughts

This no bake key lime pie is one of those desserts that’s deceptively simple but incredibly satisfying. It checks all the boxes: creamy, tart, sweet, and refreshing. Whether you’re making it for a party or just craving something light and cool after dinner, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Let me know in the comments if you try it! I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Don’t forget to tag me @hipmamasplace on Instagram so I can see your beautiful creations. Sharing your experience will inspire others and make you part of our growing community of dessert enthusiasts.

If you like this no bake key lime pie recipe – be sure to give it a review below! Enjoy!

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