This Key Lime Pie Lush is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines the tangy zest of key limes with creamy layers and a crunchy Oreo crust. It’s a refreshing treat perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion that calls for a sweet, citrusy indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this dessert brings together the tartness of key limes with the sweetness of cream and cookies. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no baking, and the layers create a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for entertaining.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 20 ounces double-stuffed Golden Oreos (family-sized package)
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- Two 3.4-ounce packages instant vanilla pudding mix
- 5½ cups heavy whipping cream, divided
- 1 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- Zest of 1 lime
Directions
- Prepare the Crust Layer: I place the Oreos in a food processor and pulse until they form crumbs. I reserve 1½ cups of these crumbs and set them aside. Then, I mix the remaining crumbs with the melted butter and press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cream Cheese – Pudding Layer: In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, I beat the cream cheese until smooth. I add the pudding mix and combine. Then, I gradually mix in 2 cups of heavy cream and the key lime juice until the mixture is smooth. I reserve ⅔ cup of this mixture for later.
- Assemble the Layers:
- I spread the cream cheese-pudding mixture over the crust.
- I sprinkle the reserved Oreo crumbs over this layer.
- I whip 2 cups of heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form and fold in the reserved ⅔ cup of the cream cheese-pudding mixture. I spread this over the Oreo crumb layer.
- I whip the remaining 1½ cups of heavy cream until stiff peaks form and spread this as the final layer.
- Chill: I refrigerate the dessert for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to set properly.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 16
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
Variations
- Crust Alternatives: Sometimes, I use graham crackers or Nilla wafers instead of Golden Oreos for a different flavor profile.
- Citrus Twist: I occasionally add lemon zest or juice for a lemon-lime variation.
- Toppings: I like to garnish with additional lime zest or thin lime slices for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. For a firmer texture, I sometimes freeze the dessert and let it thaw slightly before serving. Since it’s a no-bake dessert, reheating isn’t necessary.
FAQs
What if I can’t find key limes?
I use bottled key lime juice when fresh key limes aren’t available. Regular lime juice can also be a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often prepare it the day before an event and let it chill overnight, which helps the layers set beautifully.
Is there a dairy-free version?
I haven’t tried a dairy-free version, but substituting with dairy-free cream cheese and whipped toppings could work. Just ensure they can hold up in the layers.
Can I add fruit to this dessert?
Yes, I sometimes add a layer of fresh berries between the cream layers for added texture and flavor.
How do I ensure clean slices when serving?
I use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts to get clean slices.
Conclusion
This Key Lime Pie Lush is a crowd-pleaser with its creamy layers and zesty flavor. It’s simple to make, requires no baking, and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat as much as I do!
Print
Key Lime Pie Lush
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This no-bake Key Lime Pie Lush is a creamy, citrusy dessert layered with a Golden Oreo crust, velvety cream cheese-pudding filling, and fluffy whipped cream. With the bright zest of key limes and luscious textures, it’s a perfect summer dessert for parties or holidays.
Ingredients
- 20 ounces double-stuffed Golden Oreos (family-sized package)
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- Two 3.4-ounce packages instant vanilla pudding mix
- 5½ cups heavy whipping cream, divided
- 1 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- Zest of 1 lime
Instructions
- Prepare Crust: Crush Oreos in a food processor. Reserve 1½ cups of crumbs. Mix the rest with melted butter and press into a 9×13-inch dish.
- Cream Layer: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in pudding mix, then 2 cups heavy cream and key lime juice. Reserve ⅔ cup of mixture.
- Layering:
- Spread cream cheese mixture over crust.
- Sprinkle reserved crumbs.
- Whip 2 cups cream + powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Fold in reserved ⅔ cup mixture and spread over crumbs.
- Whip final 1½ cups cream, spread as top layer.
- Chill: Refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- Can substitute graham crackers or Nilla wafers for a different crust.
- Lemon zest or juice can add a citrusy variation.
- Garnish with lime zest or thin lime slices.
- Best served cold; stores well in fridge up to 3 days or frozen for firmer texture.
