Key Lime Pie in a Jar Recipe

If you love a sweet, tangy dessert that’s as adorable as it is delicious, my Key Lime Pie in a Jar Recipe will absolutely steal your heart! Creamy citrus filling layered with buttery graham cracker crumbs—all cozied up in a jar for the ultimate easy treat. Each bite bursts with fresh lime flavor, making this fun twist on the classic pie totally irresistible.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, key ingredients are what make this Key Lime Pie in a Jar Recipe truly shine! Each one plays a starring role—delivering melt-in-your-mouth texture, vibrant color, and that signature tart-sweet flavor.

• Graham cracker crumbs: The essential crunchy, buttery crust base for that classic pie texture in every spoonful.
• Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust and helps it set just right.
• Pinch of salt: Highlights all the flavors and balances the tang.
• Unsalted butter (melted): Brings everything together and adds that irresistible richness to the crumb layer.
• Sweetened condensed milk: The secret to silky, decadent filling—it blends sweetness and creaminess in every bite.
• Fresh lime zest: Gives bursts of fragrant, flavorful citrus that wake up the whole dessert.
• Lime juice (key limes or regular): Brings the signature zippy tartness! Key limes offer authentic flavor, but regular limes work beautifully too.
• Egg yolks: Set the pie layer into that perfect custard you love—luscious, smooth, never runny.
• Whipped cream: Pillowy clouds on top—cool, creamy, and the perfect counterpoint to all that zingy lime.
• Lime wedges for garnish: Such a simple touch, but it makes your jars look so fresh and inviting.

Variations

This Key Lime Pie in a Jar Recipe is super flexible, so you can tweak it to fit whatever you’re craving or whatever you have on hand. Here are some playful ways to change things up or accommodate dietary needs!

• Dairy-Free: Swap in coconut oil for the crust and use dairy-free sweetened condensed milk for a totally luscious, plant-friendly dessert.
• Cookie Crust Swap: Try ginger snap or vanilla wafer crumbs in place of graham crackers for a fun flavor twist!
• Lemon Love: Substitute lemon juice and zest for a tangy lemon pie in a jar—just as creamy, with a whole new citrus vibe.
• No-Bake Version: Skip the baking and chill the assembled jars for a softer, mousse-like pie (but note: the texture will be looser).

How to Make Key Lime Pie in a Jar Recipe

Step 1: Make and Layer the Crust

Start by blitzing your graham crackers into fine crumbs—either with a rolling pin and bag or in a food processor. Combine crumbs, sugar, salt, and melted butter in a bowl, stirring until every bit is evenly moistened. Spoon the mixture into clean mason jars, dividing evenly. Don’t press down too hard; a gentle pat is perfect for a soft, scoopable crust that lifts easily when you dig your spoon in later.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Creamy Lime Pie Filling

Use your microplane to zest one of your limes for maximum aroma and flavor, then whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lime zest, fresh lime juice, and egg yolks in a bowl. You’ll see the filling become pale, dreamy, and thick—this is what makes the Key Lime Pie in a Jar Recipe so velvety smooth.

Step 3: Assemble, Bake, and Chill

Pour the lime filling equally into your prepared jars on top of the crust. Set jars on a rimmed baking sheet for stability. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, just until set—look for a filling that doesn’t jiggle when you (gently!) shake the jar. Cool for half an hour at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least two hours so each pie sets up and flavors meld.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

Right before serving, dollop each with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a lime wedge or extra zest. Grab some parfait spoons and let everyone dig in—the layers look so inviting, and the whole dessert is irresistibly portable!

How to Serve Key Lime Pie in a Jar Recipe

Garnishes

Nothing elevates these darling jars quite like a generous swirl of whipped cream and a cheerful wedge of fresh lime. For extra flair, sprinkle a bit more lime zest or a few graham crumbs on top—each scoop becomes even more enticing!

Side Dishes

These mini pies pair so well with anything light and refreshing, like fresh berries, simple shortbread cookies, or even an iced mint tea. Serve them after a BBQ feast or as the grand finale to a seafood dinner for serious “wow” factor.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off the beautiful layers by serving the jars on a tray lined with tropical leaves for a fun, party-ready vibe. Tie a ribbon around each jar for a picnic or shower, or simply set out a big bowl of colorful spoons and let guests dig in—everyone loves their own little pie!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Seal the jars tightly with their lids and pop them in the fridge. Your Key Lime Pie in a Jar Recipe will stay perfectly fresh for up to three days—just hold off on adding whipped cream until ready to serve for the best texture and taste.

Freezing

Want to make a batch ahead? Freeze the un-topped pies (with lids) for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then top with fresh whipped cream just before serving—it’s like a cool lime popsicle-meets-pie experience!

Reheating

No reheating needed here! These jars are meant to be savored chilled, straight from the fridge (especially on a warm day). Just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes if you prefer a slightly softer filling.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Key Lime Pie in a Jar Recipe enough—it’s bright, creamy, and seriously charming. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want a sweet treat in your fridge, give these a try. One spoonful, and you’ll see just how delightful dessert in a jar can be!

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