Are you craving a taste of the tropics but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen? This Key Lime Pie Parfait recipe offers all the tangy, sweet deliciousness of a classic Key lime pie, but with a fraction of the effort! It's the perfect light and refreshing dessert, ideal for a quick weeknight treat or a sophisticated gathering. This easy recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering big on flavor without the fuss. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this healthy and delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup Key lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 tablespoon Key lime zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional: Whipped cream, fresh lime wedges, and graham cracker pieces for garnish
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix well until evenly moistened.
Make the Crust (Optional, but recommended!):
- Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of four small glasses or ramekins. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool completely. This step adds a lovely textural element, but you can skip it for a quicker option.
Prepare the Key Lime Filling:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, sweetened condensed milk, Key lime juice, Key lime zest, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Parfaits:
- Once the graham cracker crusts (if using) have cooled, layer the Key lime mixture over the crusts, dividing it evenly among the glasses.
Chill & Enjoy:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the parfait to chill. Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, fresh lime wedges, and extra graham cracker crumbs for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips for the Best Key Lime Pie Parfaits:
- Fresh is Best: Using freshly squeezed Key lime juice makes a world of difference in the flavor of this dessert. The bright, tartness is unmatched by bottled juice.
- Greek Yogurt Matters: Full-fat Greek yogurt provides a richer, creamier texture than low-fat varieties.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet parfait, start with 1/4 cup and add more to taste.
- Make Ahead: These parfaits can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations:
- Berrylicious: Add a layer of fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries) between the Key lime mixture and the graham cracker crust for an extra burst of flavor and color.
- Coconut Cream Dream: Top with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a tropical twist.
- Chocolate Graham Crust: Use chocolate graham crackers for a decadent variation on the crust.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without optional toppings):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugar: 20g
This quick dinner idea or delightful dessert recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy this simple yet stunning Key Lime Pie Parfait – a perfect example of delicious dishes achievable even on busy weeknights!