Frozen Key Lime Pie Parfaits
On a humid summer evening last July, my husband and I sat out on our porch with melting feet and sticky fingers. I had a craving for key lime pie but didn’t want to turn on the oven or fuss with a crust. So I layered whipped cream, zesty lime filling, and crumbled graham—all in small jars—and popped them into the freezer. Within an hour, we were spooning bright, creamy bites that chased away the sticky heat.
That first parfait was a celebration of simplicity: fresh lime tang, just-sweet cream, and satisfying crunch in each spoonful. It hit the nostalgia of childhood pies but felt modern and fuss-free. Ever since, these parfaits have become my go-to treat for dinner guests and for when I want something both elegant and effortless.
These Frozen Key Lime Pie Parfaits bring all the joy of pie—without the slicing, rolling, or waiting. They’re portable, festive, and give me a little “dessert win” whenever I need it.

Short Description
Creamy, tangy, and frozen—these key lime pie parfaits are portable desserts layered with whipped cream, lime filling, and graham crumbs for summer-ready sweetness.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
- Zest of 2 regular limes
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
Seasonings or optional items
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional for sweeter cream)
- Pinch of salt
Substitutions
- Lower-fat: Use light cream and reduce condensed milk to ⅓ cup
- Dairy-free: Replace cream with coconut cream and condensed milk with sweetened condensed coconut milk
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham or crushed nut-based crackers
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Small parfait glasses or mason jars
- Zester or microplane
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Whip the cream
In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream with vanilla extract (and powdered sugar if using) until soft peaks form.
Step 2: Make lime filling
Gently fold sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt into the whipped cream until smooth and uniform.
Step 3: Layer parfaits
Add a spoonful of graham crumbs to the bottom of each jar. Add a layer of key lime filling. Repeat to fill, leaving room at the top for extra crumbs.
Step 4: Freeze until set
Cover jars and freeze for at least one hour, or until firm but still scoopable.
Step 5: Serve chilled
Top with extra graham crumbs or a lime zest garnish. Let sit for 5 minutes at room temperature before eating for best texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking or crusts—just mix, layer, and freeze
- A refreshing twist on classic key lime pie
- Perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings
- Easy to customize: add berries or coconut flakes
Helpful Tips and Cooking Notes
- For smoother texture, use chilled mixing bowl and beaters
- Freeze jars on a baking sheet to make them easy to move
- Adjust lime juice based on tartness preference
- Serve within 24 hours for best texture—longer storage can get icy
Nutritional Benefits & Fun Facts
Key limes are rich in vitamin C and add a refreshing tang. Using whipped cream and condensed milk makes it indulgent, but you can easily lighten it by using light dairy or dairy-free alternatives. It’s an easy dessert that feels fancy without the fuss.
Final Dish & Serving Suggestions
When served, the parfaits look like layered jewels—green-tinged filling contrasted by pale cream and golden crumbs. The taste is bright and creamy, with the graham base giving each bite satisfying texture. These are perfect by the pool, on the porch, or after a backyard barbecue.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Freeze for up to 2 days—texture is best within 24 hours
- Let thaw 5 minutes before serving for easy scooping
- Avoid refreezing once thawed
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Yes, but freshly squeezed gives the best brightness and flavor.
2. Can I make these nut-free?
Yes—just ensure your graham crackers or substitutes are nut-free.
3. Are they kid-friendly?
Absolutely—kids love spooning the creamy layers, and portion control is easy.
4. Can I add fruit?
Yes, layer in fresh berries or mango puree for a fruity twist.
5. How can I make them less sweet?
Use light cream and reduce sweetened condensed milk to ⅓ cup, and skip the powdered sugar.
Final Thoughts
These Frozen Key Lime Pie Parfaits capture all the familiar comfort of key lime pie with zero oven-time and plenty of style. They brighten summer nights and feel both celebratory and casual—my kind of dessert. I’d love to see your spin on these; tag me in your photos or leave a comment below!
Frozen Key Lime Pie Parfaits
Course: DessertsDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes1
hour~250
kcal1
hour10
minutesA no-bake, frozen dessert layering whipped cream, sweet lime, and graham crumbs for a fresh twist on key lime pie.
Ingredients
- Main ingredients
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
½ cup fresh key lime juice (about 4–5 limes)
Zest of 2 regular limes
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- Seasonings or optional items
2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional for sweeter cream)
Pinch of salt
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream with vanilla extract (and powdered sugar if using) until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt into the whipped cream until smooth and uniform.
- Add a spoonful of graham crumbs to the bottom of each jar. Add a layer of key lime filling. Repeat to fill, leaving room at the top for extra crumbs.
- Cover jars and freeze for at least one hour, or until firm but still scoopable.
- Top with extra graham crumbs or a lime zest garnish. Let sit for 5 minutes at room temperature before eating for best texture.