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Key Lime Pie Lasagna

April 29, 2025

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Key Lime Pie Lasagna: A No-Fuss, No-Bake Dessert That Tastes Like Summer

There’s something irresistible about the combination of zesty citrus and sweet creaminess, especially when it comes in the form of a cool, refreshing layered dessert. If you’re a fan of Key lime pie but looking for something even more decadent, easy to serve, and impressive to present, this Key Lime Pie Lasagna is your dream dessert. Creamy layers, crunchy macadamia nut crust, and a tangy lime custard come together in a dish that’s equal parts luscious and light.

This dessert is ideal for spring and summer gatherings, potlucks, or any time you’re craving a refreshing treat without the need for a complicated baking process. It has just the right amount of tartness to balance the sweetness, making each bite bright, silky, and utterly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Pie Lasagna

No need for a pie tin or precision baking. This dessert comes together in a 9×9 baking dish with mostly stovetop and refrigerated steps.
Perfect make-ahead dessert. It tastes even better after chilling overnight, giving the layers time to firm up and flavors to blend.
Easy to serve. Unlike traditional pie slices, this lasagna-style dessert can be cut into neat squares.
Customizable and allergy-friendly options. Great for swapping ingredients to suit different dietary needs or flavor profiles.

Who Is This Recipe For?

If you love Key lime pie, cheesecake, or creamy citrus desserts, this one’s for you. It’s ideal for:

Home cooks who want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Citrus lovers looking for a new twist on a classic.
Fans of layered desserts like banana pudding or chocolate lasagna.
Anyone hosting a summer cookout or spring brunch.

This dessert feels like a mini tropical vacation in each bite — no airfare required.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons sugar
½ cup butter, melted
½ cup macadamia nuts, finely chopped (can substitute cashews or pecans)

For the Cheesecake Layer:

6 oz cream cheese, softened
⅔ cup powdered sugar
⅔ cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Key Lime Layer:

2 tablespoons cornstarch
¾ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)

¾ cup granulated sugar
4 egg yolks, slightly beaten
5 tablespoons butter

Green food coloring (optional)
1½ cups whipped topping

For the Topping:

1 cup whipped topping

⅓ cup chopped nuts (macadamia, cashew, or pecan)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

9×9-inch baking dish
Mixing bowls

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Hand mixer or stand mixer

Silicone spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Plastic wrap or airtight container for storage

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, melted butter, and chopped nuts. Stir until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish.
Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove and let it cool completely before adding layers.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
Fold in whipped topping and vanilla until combined.
Spread the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and place in the refrigerator while preparing the lime layer.

3. Cook the Key Lime Custard

In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar and cornstarch. Slowly whisk in key lime juice and slightly beaten egg yolks. Add butter and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. It should coat the back of a spoon.
Remove from heat and press a layer of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent skin from forming. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

4. Assemble the Key Lime Layer

Once the custard is completely chilled, add a few drops of green food coloring if desired for a vibrant look. Gently fold in 1½ cups whipped topping until light and fluffy.
Spread over the cheesecake layer.

5. Final Topping

Top the dessert with an additional 1 cup of whipped topping and sprinkle with chopped nuts.
Refrigerate for 4–5 hours minimum, preferably overnight, to allow it to set. For a firmer, ice-cream cake feel, place in the freezer for 2–3 hours before serving.

Tips and Shortcuts

Shortcut: Use a store-bought graham cracker crust and bake it in the 9×9 dish for a more traditional pie flavor.
Nut-free option: Omit the nuts or use crushed pretzels or graham crackers in the crust.

Make it tropical: Add shredded coconut or a splash of coconut milk to the lime layer.
No whipped topping? Make your own with heavy cream and a little powdered sugar (beat until stiff peaks form).
Boost the lime flavor: Add ½ teaspoon lime zest to the custard before cooking for a more aromatic bite.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. The layers will stay firm and flavorful.
Freezer: Freeze tightly covered for up to 1 month. Defrost for 15–20 minutes at room temperature before serving. It tastes amazing as a semi-frozen treat too!

What to Serve With Key Lime Pie Lasagna

This dessert is rich and refreshing on its own, but you can elevate your experience with:

Iced green tea or sparkling citrus water
Toasted coconut or lime zest on top

A fresh fruit salad featuring pineapple, strawberries, and mango
Coffee with a splash of vanilla or coconut creamer for contrast

FAQs

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, regular lime juice works well. The flavor will be slightly less floral and more tart, but still delicious.

Is it safe to use raw egg yolks in the custard?

The egg yolks are cooked during the custard-making process, so they are safe to eat once fully heated and thickened.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it’s recommended. Letting it sit overnight helps the flavors meld and the layers firm up beautifully.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! For a crowd, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Increase the baking time for the crust by 5–7 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or just need a cool treat on a warm day, Key Lime Pie Lasagna is an easy yet show-stopping dessert. It hits that sweet spot between familiar comfort and gourmet indulgence, and it’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

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