Key Lime Pie Lasagna Recipe
Vibrant, refreshing, and cloud-like in texture, Key Lime Pie Lasagna transforms the classic key lime pie into a showstopping, no-bake layered dessert that’s both effortless and utterly irresistible. Every forkful is a dreamy combination of tangy lime, creamy filling, and a tender cookie crust—perfect for warm gatherings with friends or family celebrations. Whether you grew up loving key lime pie or you’re simply seeking a fun twist on a traditional treat, this Key Lime Pie Lasagna brings sunshine to your dessert table and makes any occasion a little brighter.
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this unique dessert lies in the simplicity of its ingredients—each one adding a special touch, from buttery crunch to luscious lime flavor and velvety richness. Gather these kitchen staples, and you’ll be amazed at the flavor harmony they create in every bite.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The classic foundation for any pie bar or lasagna, lending toasty, honeyed flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crumb base together and adds a rich, decadent note.
- Cream cheese (softened): Provides a creamy, tangy layer that balances the sweetness and citrus perfectly.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer without leaving any gritty texture behind.
- Lime zest: Packs cheerful citrus aroma and a pop of color—don’t skip it, it makes all the difference!
- Fresh lime juice: Nothing beats the pure, tart brightness of freshly squeezed lime for authentic flavor.
- Heavy whipping cream (divided): Adds airiness and a rich, dreamy mouthfeel to both the filling and topping.
- Granulated sugar: Helps stabilize whipped cream and adds a gentle sweetness to pie layers.
- Instant vanilla pudding mix: Brings snappy vanilla flavor and sets up into a perfectly smooth, thick layer.
- Cold milk: Works with the pudding mix to create a silky, luscious consistency.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Brings a velvety, sweet richness that’s signature in any key lime dessert.
- Shredded coconut (optional for topping): Adds a tropical flair and a subtle chew—especially lovely if you like extra texture.
- Extra lime zest and lime slices for garnish: Make the Key Lime Pie Lasagna as beautiful as it is delicious!
How to Make Key Lime Pie Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
Start by combining your graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl, mixing until every crumb looks sun-kissed and thoroughly coated. Press this sticky mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. This will be your lasagna’s “foundation,” so don’t rush this step! Once you’ve pressed it in, pop the dish into the fridge to chill while you make the next delicious layers.
Step 2: Whip Up the Lime Cream Cheese Layer
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until totally smooth and luxurious—no lumps allowed. Add in that lively lime zest and the fresh lime juice, mixing until the speckled citrus is fragrant and evenly blended. In a separate bowl, whip one cup of heavy cream with granulated sugar until you get stiff peaks, then gently fold this fluffy cream into your lime-cream cheese concoction. Carefully spread this dreamy filling over the chilled graham crust; you’re halfway to Key Lime Pie Lasagna bliss!
Step 3: Create the Vanilla Pudding Layer
For the next layer, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk and the sweetened condensed milk until thickened and silky. The pudding’s lush vanilla notes marry perfectly with the zesty lime below. Spread this pudding mixture evenly over your cream cheese layer, creating another delicious stratum in your Key Lime Pie Lasagna.
Step 4: Make and Add the Whipped Cream Topping
Whip the remaining cup of heavy cream until you have those glorious stiff peaks, then use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to swirl this cloud-like topping over your pudding layer. If you love a tropical punch, sprinkle shredded coconut over the top for a finishing touch.
Step 5: Chill and Garnish
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least four hours, but overnight is even better for beautifully set layers. When you’re ready to serve, add extra lime zest and a few lime slices right on top for a burst of color and irresistible aroma. Your Key Lime Pie Lasagna is ready to steal the show!
How to Serve Key Lime Pie Lasagna
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated lime zest and a handful of sliced limes make your dessert pop with tropical color and citrus perfume. Toasted coconut adds a golden touch and a sweet crunch, elevating every bite of this chilled masterpiece.
Side Dishes
Because this dessert is light yet rich, it pairs easily with simple accompaniments like fresh berries, pineapple chunks, or a cool fruit salad. If you want to lean into the summer theme, add a pitcher of sparkling limeade or iced tea for a refreshing finish.
Creative Ways to Present
Rather than slicing from a single pan, try serving the Key Lime Pie Lasagna in individual glass jars or parfait cups—your guests will love seeing the vivid, luscious layers! Fancy up the look even further with edible flowers or candied lime peel for an extra special event.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Key Lime Pie Lasagna keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to maintain its creamy freshness. The flavors actually meld and intensify as it sits, making leftovers a delicious bonus.
Freezing
While this dessert can be frozen (wrap it snugly to prevent freezer burn), be aware that the texture may change slightly as the whipped layers thaw. For best results, freeze individual slices for up to one month, then thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Since Key Lime Pie Lasagna is best enjoyed chilled, there’s no need to reheat it. If serving straight from the freezer, let it sit in the refrigerator for several hours until it’s creamy and just set before slicing.
FAQs
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Absolutely! While key limes offer a slightly more floral, tart flavor, regular limes work wonderfully and are much easier to find. Either option delivers the classic, zesty punch needed for Key Lime Pie Lasagna.
Is there a substitute for graham cracker crumbs in the crust?
Yes! Vanilla wafer crumbs or even digestive biscuits are fantastic alternatives. Both add a subtle sweetness and work well to create a sturdy, delicious base for this layered dessert.
Can this be made gluten-free?
Certainly. Simply swap the graham cracker crumbs for your favorite gluten-free cookies. Make sure the pudding mix and all other ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing gluten-free Key Lime Pie Lasagna in no time.
Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?
If you’re short on time, store-bought whipped topping makes for a quick substitute in both the filling and topping layers. Homemade whipped cream does offer a fresher flavor and slightly richer texture, though!
How far ahead can I prepare Key Lime Pie Lasagna?
For maximum flavor and clean slices, prepare your Key Lime Pie Lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. The longer it chills, the better those luscious layers “set” and meld together beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an unforgettable treat that’s equal parts sunshine and sweetness, Key Lime Pie Lasagna is the dessert to make. No oven, no fuss—just irresistible, bright flavors in every chilled, creamy layer. Give it a try and watch it become your new go-to for celebrations all year round!
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Key Lime Pie Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the refreshing flavors of a Key Lime Pie Lasagna – a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the zesty essence of key limes with creamy layers of goodness. This tropical-inspired treat is perfect for summer gatherings or any time you crave a taste of paradise.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Lime Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons lime zest
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, divided
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups cold milk
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- Extra lime zest and lime slices for garnish
Instructions
- Graham Cracker Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into a 9×13-inch dish for the crust. Chill.
- Lime Cream Cheese Layer: Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add lime zest and juice. Fold in whipped cream and spread over crust.
- Pudding Layer: Whisk pudding mix, milk, and condensed milk until thickened. Spread over cream cheese layer.
- Assembly: Whip remaining cream, spread over pudding layer. Sprinkle with coconut. Chill for at least 4 hours.
- Serve: Garnish with lime zest and slices.
Notes
- For extra tang, add an additional tablespoon of lime juice to the cream cheese layer.
- You can substitute graham crackers with vanilla wafer crumbs for a slightly sweeter crust.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg