Magical 3 Layer Key Lime Pie Trifle That Stuns Every Time Recipe

Introduction

This Magical 3 Layer Key Lime Pie Trifle is a stunning dessert that combines buttery crust, tangy lime filling, and fluffy cream in perfect harmony. It’s easy to assemble and impresses every time with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (finely ground)
• 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (chilled)
• 8 oz full-fat cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
• 1 tablespoon key lime zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your trifle dish using the bottom of a measuring cup to create a solid crust base.
2. Step 2: Chill a mixing bowl for about 15 minutes, then beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Be attentive to avoid overbeating.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, key lime juice, key lime zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture in three portions, using a rubber spatula and slow movements to preserve the airiness of the whipped cream.
5. Step 5: Spread half of the filling over the graham cracker crust in the trifle dish. Sprinkle some additional graham cracker crumbs over the filling. Repeat with the remaining filling, then top with a final sprinkle of crumbs and extra lime zest for garnish.
6. Step 6: Refrigerate the trifle for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra citrus intensity, add a teaspoon of lime zest to the crust mixture before pressing it into the dish.
• If you can’t find key limes, regular limes are a fine substitute, though key limes have a uniquely bright flavor.
• Chilling your mixing bowl before whipping the cream helps achieve perfect stiffness faster.

Storage

Store the trifle covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a gentle stir to refresh the layers if desired. This trifle is best enjoyed chilled and does not freeze well due to the whipped cream layer.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this trifle ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert benefits from resting in the fridge for at least 2 hours and can be made up to 1 day in advance for the best flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have a trifle dish?

You can use any deep, clear bowl or glass container that allows you to layer the ingredients beautifully and easily serve.

Magical 3 Layer Key Lime Pie Trifle That Stuns Every Time Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 60 reviews

This Magical 3 Layer Key Lime Pie Trifle is a breathtakingly beautiful and delicious dessert that layers a buttery graham cracker crust with a cloud-like creamy key lime filling. Using freshly squeezed key lime juice, zesty lime zest, and a perfectly whipped cream base, this no-bake trifle dazzles with bright citrus flavors and a luscious, smooth texture. Ideal for summer parties or any occasion that calls for a stunning yet easy-to-make dessert that impresses every time.

• Author: Mila
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (finely ground)
• 4 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

Filling

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (chilled)
• 8 oz full-fat cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
• 1 tablespoon key lime zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prep your crust: Mix the melted butter with the finely ground graham cracker crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your trifle dish using the bottom of a measuring cup or a similar tool to create a solid, compact base that will hold together when sliced.
2. Whip it good: Chill your mixing bowl and beaters for about 15 minutes beforehand. Then, beat the cold heavy whipping cream just until stiff peaks form. Be attentive to avoid over-beating, which can cause the cream to become grainy.
3. Create the magic filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and lump-free. Gradually add the powdered sugar, freshly squeezed key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract, mixing well and scraping down the bowl often for even flavor distribution.
4. Fold with love: Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime and cream cheese mixture in three additions using a rubber spatula. Use slow, large folding motions to keep the mixture light and fluffy, preserving the whipped cream’s airy texture.
5. Layer it up: Spread half of the creamy filling over the graham cracker crust in the trifle dish. Sprinkle a light layer of graham cracker crumbs on top, then add the remaining filling. Finish with a final sprinkle of crumbs and add extra lime zest on top for a colorful, aromatic garnish.
6. Chill out: Refrigerate the assembled trifle for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the filling to set. This resting time enhances the dessert’s texture and flavor, making each bite delightfully magical.

Notes

• Use freshly squeezed key lime juice for the best, most authentic flavor; bottled juice does not provide the same brightness.
• Chilling the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream helps achieve perfect stiff peaks.
• Softening cream cheese at room temperature for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to mix and results in a smoother filling.
• Be gentle when folding the whipped cream to keep the texture light and airy.
• For added texture and flavor contrast, consider topping with extra graham cracker crumbs and lime zest before serving.

Keywords: Key Lime Pie, Trifle, No-Bake Dessert, Summer Dessert, Layered Dessert, Citrus Dessert, Graham Cracker Crust