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Key Lime Pie Trifle Recipe

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4.2 from 12 reviews

This refreshing Key Lime Pie Trifle layers buttery graham cracker crumbs with a creamy, tangy key lime and cream cheese filling, topped with whipped cream and lime zest. Perfect for a summery dessert that requires no baking and can be prepared ahead of time.

Ingredients

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (divided)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

Filling

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream (chilled)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup key lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon key lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust base: Mix 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until fully combined. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs for later layering.
  2. Form the crust layer: Press the buttered graham cracker crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your serving dish to create the base layer.
  3. Whip the cream: Beat the chilled heavy whipping cream in a mixing bowl until stiff peaks form, ensuring it holds shape.
  4. Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth to remove any lumps.
  5. Add flavorings: Incorporate the powdered sugar, key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese and continue beating until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
  6. Fold in whipped cream: Gently fold the beaten whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until the filling is light, fluffy, and evenly mixed.
  7. Layer the trifle – first layer: Spread half of the creamy filling over the graham cracker crust base in your dish.
  8. Add crumb sprinkle: Sprinkle a portion of the reserved graham cracker crumbs over this first layer of filling for texture.
  9. Layer the trifle – second layer: Add the remaining half of the key lime cream filling evenly on top of the crumbs.
  10. Top with crumbs and zest: Finish by topping the trifle with the rest of the reserved graham cracker crumbs and sprinkle additional lime zest for garnish.
  11. Chill before serving: Refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least 2 hours to set and deepen flavors before serving.

Notes

  • For best results, ensure the cream cheese is soft and at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
  • Chilling the heavy cream beforehand helps achieve better volume and stiff peaks.
  • This dessert can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated to intensify flavor and simplify serving.
  • Use fresh key limes or good quality bottled key lime juice for authentic tangy flavor.
  • For an extra festive look, garnish with thin lime slices or mint leaves.

Find it online: https://cookedbysarah.com/key-lime-pie-trifle-recipe/