Can I use bottled key lime juice for trifle?

Yes, bottled key lime juice works perfectly and saves time. Just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugars or artificial flavors to keep that bright, authentic citrus taste.

Is key lime pie trifle served cold or warm?

Always serve this dessert cold. Chilling enhances the tartness of the lime and allows the creamy layers to firm up, giving you that signature trifle texture.

Can I make a key lime pie trifle ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it’s better that way. Make it the night before your event and chill overnight. This lets the pound cake absorb flavor and gives the dessert structure.

Can I freeze key lime pie trifle?

You can, but it’s not ideal. The texture of whipped topping and cream cheese can change after freezing. If you do freeze it, store in individual containers and thaw slowly in the fridge.

Are graham crackers or shortbread better for trifle?

Both are delicious options. Graham crackers offer a classic pie flavor and slight crunch. Shortbread is richer and more buttery, adding a denser texture.

Is this dessert good for summer parties?

It’s one of the best! No baking, make-ahead convenience, bright citrus flavor, and cool layers make it the perfect summer party dessert.

The Best Key Lime Pie Trifle for No-Bake Lovers

Description

A cool, creamy, no-bake dessert layered with citrus key lime filling, pound cake, and whipped topping. Perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

1 (8 oz) pkg cream cheese, softened

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

½ cup Key lime juice

1 lime, zested

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 (14 oz) pkg sliced butter pound cake, cubed

18 graham cracker sheets, crushed

1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

2. Add sweetened condensed milk and beat until fully incorporated.

3. Stir in key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix well and refrigerate.

4. Cut pound cake into cubes.

5. In a trifle dish, layer crushed graham crackers, cubed pound cake, key lime filling, and whipped topping.

6. Repeat layers until dish is full, finishing with whipped topping and ¼ cup crushed graham crackers on top.

7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

8. Garnish with lime slices before serving.

Notes

If fresh key limes are unavailable, bottled juice works great.

You can substitute angel food cake or shortbread for the pound cake.

Prep this dessert the night before for best flavor and texture.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 390
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg