Description
A refreshing and tangy Key Lime Pie Trifle that combines layers of graham cracker crust, zesty lime filling, and fluffy whipped cream, perfect for a light and elegant dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Key Lime Filling
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish
- Fresh lime slices and zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Set aside.
- Make the key lime filling: In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Whip the cream: In a separate chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Fold the mixtures: Gently fold half of the whipped cream into the key lime mixture until combined, creating a light and airy filling.
- Assemble the trifle: Layer the ingredients in clear dessert glasses or a large trifle dish, starting with a spoonful of the graham cracker mixture followed by a layer of the key lime filling and then a dollop of remaining whipped cream.
- Repeat layers: Continue layering the graham cracker mixture, key lime filling, and whipped cream until the glass or dish is full, finishing with whipped cream on top.
- Garnish and chill: Sprinkle additional graham cracker crumbs over the top and garnish with fresh lime zest or slices if desired. Chill the assembled trifle for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance the flavors and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh key lime juice if possible for the best flavor.
- Chilling the key lime filling helps it thicken and improves texture.
- Be sure the whipping cream bowl and beaters are cold to achieve better whipped cream peaks.
- This dessert can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a lighter whipping cream alternative.
