10 Key Lime Desserts That Bring the Flavor

Key lime desserts stand out with their unmistakable tart flavor and creamy texture that hits just the right balance of refreshing and rich. Whether baked into bars, blended into smoothies, or chilled into a no-bake treat, key lime adds a bold citrus flavor that’s hard to beat. These recipes show how versatile key lime can be, layered into lush desserts, swirled into cheesecakes, or even folded into chia puddings. If you’re looking for desserts that cut through the sweetness with something bright and satisfying, this list brings plenty of ways to enjoy key lime in all its forms.

Key Lime Lush

Layered with graham crust, lime filling, and whipped topping, this dessert is soft, fluffy, and chilled to set. Each spoonful includes all the layers for a mix of textures. It’s great for serving from a dish or pan. A no-bake option with big flavor payoff.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Lush

Key Lime Bars

With a smooth lime filling over a buttery crust, these bars are sweet, tart, and easy to portion. The filling sets firm but creamy, slicing cleanly into squares. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a final touch. They’re simple, bold, and built for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Bars

Mini Key Lime Pie Bites

These individual-size pies pack all the classic flavor into a bite-sized treat. The crusts are either pressed into mini tins or made with cookie bases, topped with a tangy lime filling. They’re chilled until firm and often topped with whipped cream. A great make-ahead option for parties.
Get the Recipe: Mini Key Lime Pie Bites

No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake

This dessert layers a whipped lime cheesecake filling onto a graham crust without needing any oven time. The flavor is bold but smooth, and the texture is airy yet firm. Once chilled, it slices cleanly and holds its shape. It’s an easy option for warm days or fast prep.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Key Lime Cheesecake

Key Lime Smoothie

This creamy drink blends key lime juice with yogurt or banana for a thick, tangy flavor. It’s sweetened lightly and can be boosted with protein or greens for a snack or breakfast. Cold and refreshing, it brings pie-like flavor in drinkable form. Great with ice and a straw.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Smoothie

Key Lime Coconut Panna Cotta

This silky panna cotta combines coconut milk and lime juice for a tropical take on the Italian classic. The texture is light and wobbly, with a rich flavor that melts on the tongue. It’s set in molds and chilled, then flipped or served in cups. Lime zest adds brightness without overpowering.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Coconut Panna Cotta

Key Lime Pie

A graham cracker crust, a filling made from lime juice, condensed milk, and egg yolks, and a topping of whipped cream or meringue make this dessert a staple. The flavor is sweet and sour with a smooth, thick texture. It slices neatly and always looks great on the plate. A reliable go-to for citrus lovers.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pie

Instant Pot Key Lime Cheesecake

This cheesecake gets its creamy texture from pressure cooking, which eliminates the need for a water bath. The key lime juice adds brightness that balances the dense richness. Once cooled and chilled, it cuts into smooth, firm slices. It’s a clever way to get bakery-level results at home.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Key Lime Cheesecake

The Best Classic Key Lime Pie

This version keeps things traditional with a baked filling made of sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and egg yolks. The flavor is sharp but sweet, and the pie sets to a dense, creamy consistency. A whipped topping finishes it off. It’s simple, reliable, and always satisfying.
Get the Recipe: The Best Classic Key Lime Pie

Key Lime Chia Pudding

This light dessert mixes chia seeds with lime juice, milk, and sweetener to create a soft, pudding-like texture. It thickens in the fridge and can be served plain or layered with fruit or coconut. The lime adds a tangy kick to every spoonful. Great for breakfast or a light dessert.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Chia Pudding