Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits Recipe
These Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits are a delightful no-bake dessert featuring layers of crunchy graham cracker crumbs and smooth, tangy key lime cheesecake mousse. Perfectly sweetened and topped with whipped cream and fresh key lime zest, these individual parfaits are refreshing and easy to prepare for any occasion.
- Author: Mia
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
Topping
- Whipped cream
- Additional key lime zest for garnish
- Prepare the crust mixture: In a bowl, combine the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs with the melted unsalted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and hold together when pressed.
- Make the cheesecake mousse: Using a handheld electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Gradually beat in the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, granulated sugar, and key lime zest until the mixture is well incorporated and creamy.
- Chill the mousse: Place the cheesecake mixture in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours to firm up slightly. This step is optional but helps to make the mousse easier to pipe.
- Assemble the parfaits: Transfer the chilled cheesecake mousse into a piping bag. In 8 individual 8-ounce canning jars, alternate layers starting with the graham cracker crumb mixture, then the cheesecake mousse, continuing to layer until the jars are filled, ending with a layer of mousse. Secure the lids onto the jars.
- Set the parfaits: Refrigerate the sealed jars for about 3 hours to allow the parfaits to set completely and the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove the lids, pipe whipped cream on top of each parfait, and garnish with additional key lime zest for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Enjoy: Serve chilled and enjoy these tangy, creamy key lime cheesecake parfaits as a refreshing dessert treat.
Notes
- Chilling the cheesecake mousse before piping enhances the presentation but can be skipped to save time.
- Use fresh key limes if available for the best flavor; bottled key lime juice can be substituted.
- These parfaits can be prepared a day in advance and stored refrigerated to deepen flavors.
- For a lighter dessert, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk or whipped cream topping.
- Be sure to soften the cream cheese adequately to avoid lumps in the mousse.
Keywords: Key Lime Cheesecake Parfaits, No Bake Dessert, Tangy Cheesecake Mousse, Graham Cracker Parfaits, Summer Dessert