Go Back
Key Lime Pie Jars

Key Lime Pie Jars

Patricia
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings 6 jars
Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

For the Filling:

  • 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice or regular lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • A few drops of green gel food coloring optional, for color

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Thin lime slices or lime curls for garnish

Instructions
 

Make the Graham Cracker Crust

  • In a bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Prepare the Jars

  • Spoon about 2 tablespoons of crust mixture into the bottom of each small jar (6-8 oz jars work best). Press gently with a spoon to compact the crust. Set aside.

Mix the Lime Filling

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, and green gel food coloring (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy.

Spoon in the Filling

  • Divide the lime filling evenly among the jars, spooning it over the crust layer. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.

Chill to Set

  • Refrigerate the jars for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Whip the Cream

  • Just before serving, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form. This takes about 3-5 minutes with a hand mixer.

Top and Garnish

  • Pipe or spoon the whipped cream on top of each jar. Garnish with a thin slice of lime or a lime zest curl for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

  • Use Good Quality Lime Juice: If using bottled juice, make sure it’s 100% key lime juice for authentic flavor.
  • Compact the Crust: Press the crust firmly into each jar to create a sturdy base that doesn’t crumble.
  • Avoid Overmixing Whipped Cream: Stop beating once stiff peaks form to keep the texture light and fluffy.
  • Layering Tip: Want to make them even prettier? Layer crust, filling, and whipped cream in alternating layers for a parfait-style dessert.
  • Add Texture: A sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut on top adds extra crunch.