Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits

If you’re craving something sweet and tangy, look no further than these Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits. These delightful parfaits are everything you love about cheesecake, but in a convenient, no-bake form. With layers of creamy, tangy key lime cheesecake filling, buttery graham cracker crumbs, and a dollop of whipped cream, this dessert is as refreshing as a summer breeze. It’s the perfect treat for when you want a burst of citrusy flavor without turning on the oven.

The first time I made these Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits, I was surprised by how quickly they disappeared. My family couldn’t get enough of the bright, zesty flavor and the smooth, creamy texture. What I love most about this dessert is its simplicity—there’s no baking involved, and it comes together in just a few minutes. Plus, the individual servings make it perfect for parties or any occasion where you want to impress without the fuss.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or just indulging in a special treat, these Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits are sure to satisfy. The combination of tart key lime juice, rich cream cheese, and sweet graham cracker crumbs creates a flavor that’s both decadent and refreshing. Serve them chilled for a cool, creamy dessert that’s perfect for any time of year.

Recipe Summary:
Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits are a quick, no-bake dessert that combines the tangy flavor of key lime with the creamy richness of cheesecake. Layered with graham cracker crumbs and topped with whipped cream, these parfaits are both delicious and easy to make. The perfect balance of sweet and tart, they’re an irresistible treat that’s ready in minutes.

Exciting Story:
One hot summer day, I was looking for a dessert that would cool us down without heating up the kitchen. I had some key limes on hand and decided to try my hand at these Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits. The moment I served them, they were an instant hit. My husband loves anything with lime, and he couldn’t stop raving about how refreshing and delicious they were. Our kids, who usually prefer chocolate, were equally delighted by the tangy sweetness. Now, these parfaits have become a staple in our house, especially during the warmer months. They’re quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Why These Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits?

Selling Points:

 

• No-Bake: No need to turn on the oven—these parfaits are quick and easy to make.
• Bright and Zesty: The tartness of key lime juice perfectly balances the creamy, rich cheesecake filling.
• Individual Portions: Serve these parfaits in individual glasses for a beautiful presentation.
• Perfect for Entertaining: These parfaits are an elegant and refreshing dessert that’s sure to impress your guests.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance and chill until ready to serve for a stress-free dessert.

How to Make Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits:

1. Make the Graham Cracker Crust:
   In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Spoon a few tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each serving glass, pressing down gently to form the crust.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well combined. Stir in the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Assemble the Parfaits:
   Spoon a layer of the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in each glass. Add another layer of graham cracker crumbs on top, followed by another layer of cheesecake filling. Repeat until the glasses are full, finishing with a layer of cheesecake filling on top.
4. Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
   In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
5. Top and Garnish:
   Dollop the whipped cream on top of each parfait, and sprinkle with additional lime zest if desired. Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Tips:

• Chill the Mixing Bowl: For the best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream.
• Fresh Key Limes: If you can find fresh key limes, their juice will add an extra layer of authentic flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, you can add a bit more condensed milk to the cheesecake filling.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Different Citrus: Try using lemon or orange juice for a different citrus flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this dessert gluten-free.
• Lighten It Up: Use light cream cheese and whipped topping for a lighter version of this dessert.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Low-Fat Cream Cheese: Substitute regular cream cheese with a low-fat version to reduce calories.
• Greek Yogurt: Replace half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier filling.
• Low-Sugar: Use a sugar-free sweetened condensed milk to lower the sugar content.

Closing:
And there you have it—Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits that are both refreshing and indulgent, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, these parfaits are sure to please. Don’t forget to share your creations with us, and check out our other delicious dessert recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime?
   Yes, you can use regular lime juice, but key lime juice has a slightly different flavor that’s more tart and aromatic.
2. Can these parfaits be made ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and keep them chilled until ready to serve.
3. What can I use if I don’t have graham crackers?
   You can substitute with digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even crushed cookies.
4. Can I make this recipe in a large dish instead of individual servings?
   Yes, you can layer the ingredients in a large trifle dish for a family-style dessert.
5. How do I store leftovers?
   Cover the parfaits with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
6. Can I freeze these parfaits?
   It’s not recommended to freeze them as the texture of the cheesecake filling may change.

Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits

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Recipe by Alexandra Course: All Word Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

1

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz 8 cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup 1/2 sweetened condensed milk

• 1/4 cup 1/4 key lime juice (fresh or bottled)

• 1 tsp 1 lime zest

• 1/2 tsp 1/2 vanilla extract

• For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 cup 1 graham cracker crumbs

• 2 tbsp 2 granulated sugar

• 4 tbsp 4 unsalted butter, melted

• For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup 1 heavy cream

• 2 tbsp 2 powdered sugar

• 1/2 tsp 1/2 vanilla extract

• Additional lime zest for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Make the Graham Cracker Crust:
• In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Spoon a few tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each serving glass, pressing down gently to form the crust.
• Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well combined. Stir in the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until the filling is smooth and slightly thickened.
• Assemble the Parfaits:
• Spoon a layer of the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in each glass. Add another layer of graham cracker crumbs on top, followed by another layer of cheesecake filling. Repeat until the glasses are full, finishing with a layer of cheesecake filling on top.
• Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
• In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
• Top and Garnish:
• Dollop the whipped cream on top of each parfait, and sprinkle with additional lime zest if desired. Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

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