If you’re searching for a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between tangy, creamy, and a little bit nostalgic, look no further than these Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits. With layers of buttery graham cracker crumbs, a velvety cheesecake mousse bursting with the signature brightness of key lime, and a generous swirl of whipped cream, every spoonful is a mini celebration. This no-bake treat feels light and refreshing, yet rich enough to satisfy even the most fervent cheesecake fans—guaranteed to become a showstopper at any gathering!

Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits truly comes from a handful of simple ingredients, each one essential to delivering those perfect layers of flavor and texture. Every component—whether crumbly, creamy, citrusy, or sweet—plays a starring role in creating this crowd-pleasing dessert.

Graham cracker crumbs: These create the buttery, crunchy base and contrast beautifully with the soft cheesecake mousse.
Unsalted butter: Mixes with the graham crumbs for that classic, melt-in-your-mouth crust feel.
Cream cheese: Offers creaminess and classic cheesecake flavor—make sure it’s well softened for the smoothest mousse!
Powdered sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps achieve a fluffy texture in the cheesecake layer.
Sweetened condensed milk: Brings sweetness and that luxurious, silky consistency to the mousse.
Key lime juice: The star of the show—fresh or bottled key lime juice gives a signature tang you just can’t fake.
Granulated sugar: Balances the tartness and adds just the right amount of extra sweetness.
Key lime zest: Infuses fragrant citrus notes and a pop of color throughout the parfait.
Whipped cream: Adds a light, airy finishing touch for an irresistible dessert experience.

How to Make Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits

Step 1: Make the Graham Cracker Base

Start by combining those finely crushed graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir until every crumb is glistening and the mixture looks like delicious, sandy wet beach sand—this is going to become the crunchy foundation for your parfaits. The buttery crumbs set the stage for everything that follows.

Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Mousse

In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together with a handheld electric mixer. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and lump-free—this is your moment for ultra creamy goodness! Add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, granulated sugar, and key lime zest. Beat again until everything is perfectly creamy and well incorporated, with little flecks of lime zest for extra personality.

Step 3: Chill the Mousse (Optional, but Recommended)

Take your cheesecake filling and pop it in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours. While this step is optional, it really does make the mousse firmer and far easier to pipe into those charming jars. Plus, it gives the flavors time to meld to dreamy perfection.

Step 4: Transfer to a Piping Bag

Once the cheesecake mixture has firmed up, transfer it to a piping bag (or a sturdy zip-top bag with a snipped corner). This makes layering neat and fuss-free, giving each jar those beautiful, defined layers that make parfaits so tempting.

Step 5: Layer the Parfaits

Now for the fun part! Into eight 8-ounce canning jars, alternate spoonfuls of the graham cracker mixture with generous pipings of the cheesecake mousse. Always start with a layer of crumbs and end with a luscious layer of mousse on top. Secure each jar with its lid once you’re done.

Step 6: Chill to Set

Pop your assembled jars in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. This final chill is key—it firms everything up, letting the flavors marry and making every layer spoon-perfect.

Step 7: Add Whipped Cream & Serve

When you’re ready to serve, unfasten those lids and crown each parfait with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Finish with a sprinkle of key lime zest for a reminder of what’s inside. Grab a spoon and prepare for citrusy, creamy bliss!

How to Serve Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits

Garnishes

A flourish of freshly whipped cream and a little extra key lime zest are classic, but you can also top your parfaits with toasted coconut flakes or a thin slice of key lime for a little extra pizzazz. These small touches add color and a gourmet finish that’ll impress every guest.

Side Dishes

Because Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits are so vibrant, they pair wonderfully with light accompaniments—think fresh tropical fruit salad, crisp shortbread cookies, or even a cooling iced tea. These sides help balance the creamy richness while letting the parfaits shine as the star.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your parfaits in mini mason jars, stemless wine glasses, or even clear teacups for a whimsical touch. Sprinkle colorful edible flowers, crushed pistachios, or graham cracker “sand” around the plate for a showstopping presentation that turns dessert into an event.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits (lucky you!), simply cover the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three days, maintaining their creamy texture and fresh citrus flavor.

Freezing

While parfaits can technically be frozen, keep in mind that the luscious mousse may lose some of its smoothness after thawing. For best results, freeze them without the whipped cream topping in airtight containers, then thaw overnight in the fridge and finish with fresh whipped cream before serving.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits—these beauties are meant to be enjoyed chilled! If you’ve frozen them, just let them thaw slowly in the refrigerator for a perfectly creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes if I can’t find key limes?

Absolutely! While key limes provide a unique floral tartness, regular Persian limes work just fine—just use the same amount of juice and zest. Your parfaits will still be bright and delicious.

Is it possible to make these Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits completely ahead?

Yes! In fact, they’re even better if made a day in advance. Simply prepare and assemble the parfaits (except for the whipped cream topping), refrigerate overnight, and add the garnishes right before serving for the freshest results.

Can I make these parfaits gluten-free?

You sure can! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free graham-style crackers for the base. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy change.

What if I don’t have a piping bag?

No worries! You can spoon the cheesecake filling into the jars or use a zip-top plastic bag with a corner snipped off for an easy DIY piping solution.

How long will the Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits stay fresh?

Properly stored in the refrigerator, these parfaits stay fresh for up to three days, maintaining their creamy texture and zesty flavor. Just keep them tightly covered until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

With every creamy, citrus-kissed spoonful, Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits are sure to sway both cheesecake lovers and key lime pie aficionados alike. They’re stunning to serve, endlessly customizable, and surprisingly simple—so don’t wait for a special occasion to make a batch. Gather your ingredients, grab your jars, and treat yourself (and those lucky enough to be around) to this irresistible dessert!

Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 16 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 4 hours
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits are a delightful and tangy dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the zesty flavor of key limes. These individual parfaits are perfect for entertaining or as a special treat for yourself.

Ingredients

Scale

Graham Cracker Crust:

1 & 2/3 cups finely crushed Graham cracker crumbs (about 14 whole sheets)
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake Mousse:

16 ounces cream cheese, softened
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/3 cup key lime juice
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon key lime zest

Additional:

Whipped cream

Instructions

Graham Cracker Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
Cheesecake Mousse: Using a handheld electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add condensed milk, key lime juice, granulated sugar, and lime zest; mix until creamy.
Place mixture in the fridge for 1-2 hours to firm up.
Transfer mixture to a piping bag.
Alternate graham cracker crumbs and cheesecake mousse in canning jars.
Chill for 3 hours to set.
Top with whipped cream and key lime zest before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Chilling
Cuisine: American