Mini Key Lime Pies – Tangy, Creamy Handheld Desserts

These Mini Key Lime Pies deliver everything you love about a traditional key lime pie—tangy citrus flavor, sweet creamy filling, and a buttery graham cracker crust—all in perfectly portioned mini pies.

They’re ideal for parties, BBQs, or anytime you want a bright and refreshing dessert without the fuss of slicing.

Topped with fresh whipped cream and a wedge of lime, these individual pies are as cute as they are delicious.

Best of all? They’re quick to bake, easy to chill, and even easier to devour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic key lime flavor in mini, handheld form

Simple ingredients and no-fuss prep

No slicing required – perfect for entertaining

Customizable toppings with whipped cream, lime, or coconut

Can be made ahead for stress-free serving

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Mini graham cracker crusts – Store-bought 3-inch shells make this recipe easy and portable

Sweetened condensed milk – The sweet, creamy base of the filling

Fresh eggs – Add richness and structure to the pies

Key lime juice – Bright, citrusy tang is the star of the show

Heavy cream – For making luscious homemade whipped cream

Powdered sugar + vanilla – Adds sweetness and depth to the whipped topping

Fresh lime slices – Optional but beautiful for garnish

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use real key lime juice if possible – bottled juice like Nellie and Joe’s works great too

Don’t overbake – filling should be set but still slightly wiggly in the center

Chill thoroughly before topping with whipped cream

Freeze for 30 minutes before serving for an extra-cold, firm bite

Decorate just before serving to keep whipped cream fresh

How to Make Mini Key Lime Pies

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Arrange 12 mini graham cracker crusts on a baking tray.

Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to gently mix: 2 large eggs, 21 oz sweetened condensed milk

Keep mixing on low as you slowly pour in: 8 oz key lime juice

Blend until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 3: Fill the Crusts
Pour the filling evenly into each crust—filling almost to the top.

Step 4: Bake the Mini Pies
Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, just until set.

The filling should still jiggle slightly and remain pale.

Step 5: Cool and Chill
Let pies cool completely on a wire rack.

Then refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight.

Step 6: Make the Whipped Cream
Chill your bowl and mixer beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes.

Add: 1 cup heavy cream, 3–4 tbsp powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract

Whip on low to start, then high speed until soft peaks form.

Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 7: Decorate and Serve
Pipe or spoon whipped cream onto chilled pies.

Garnish with lime slices if desired. Serve cold and enjoy!

What to Serve With Mini Key Lime Pies

Fresh berries – Add contrast and color

Iced tea or sparkling water – Balances the richness

Coconut macaroons – Keeps with the tropical theme

Mint sprigs – For a refreshing garnish

Variations / Substitutions

Swap graham crusts with chocolate cookie crusts for a new flavor

Add lime zest to the filling for extra zing

Fold in a bit of coconut cream to the whipped topping

Use store-bought whipped cream in a pinch

Make one large 9-inch pie instead of minis (bake for 15–17 mins)

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerate pies (without whipped cream) for up to 4 days

Top with whipped cream just before serving for best results

Freeze undecorated pies for up to 1 month in airtight container

Keep whipped cream in fridge up to 2 days

FAQs

Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?
Yes, but the flavor will be slightly less tangy and distinctive.

Can I make these pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake and chill them the day before, and decorate right before serving.

Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Yes, but homemade adds a richer taste and texture.

Do these freeze well?
Yes! Freeze without whipped topping for up to a month.

Thaw in the fridge overnight.

What’s the best way to juice key limes?
Use a handheld citrus press—it makes the job quick and easy.

Can I double the batch?
Yes! This recipe doubles easily for larger parties or gatherings.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Key Lime Pies are the perfect way to enjoy a slice of summer—tangy, creamy, and irresistibly cute.

Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, prepping for a party, or simply craving citrus, they offer the ideal balance of flavor and convenience.

Easy to make, even easier to love—this dessert is always a crowd-pleaser.