Key Lime Lush

Key Lime Lush

🍋 Key Lime Lush — The Dessert That’s Zesty, Creamy, and Totally Dreamy

If sunshine could be baked into a dessert, this would be it.

 

Some desserts are rich. Some desserts are refreshing. And then there’s Key Lime Lush — the magical middle ground that’s creamy, tangy, sweet, and light all at once. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you close your eyes after the first bite and think, “Oh yes, this is happiness.”

We’re talking a buttery graham cracker crust, a silky cream cheese layer, a lime‑kissed pudding filling, and a fluffy Cool Whip topping that ties it all together. It’s no‑bake, it’s crowd‑pleasing, and it’s the kind of recipe that makes you look like a dessert genius with almost no effort.

💬 Reader prompt: Are you a “team citrus desserts all year long” person, or do you save them for spring and summer only?

My family absolutely loves lime flavored desserts! I think they are converting me to their way of thinking!

On the 4th of July, we had a quick get together at my daughter’s home. I wanted to make something delicious but easy. This is the perfect solution! It’s a perfect dessert for BBQ’s, parties, or just because.

This will put a smile on your face!

 

Key Lime Lush

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Ingredients

• Nonstick cooking spray, for the baking dish
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• One 8-ounce package whipped cream cheese
• 1/3 cup powdered sugar
• Pinch salt
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• One 16-ounce container Cool Whip, thawed
• One 3.4-ounce package instant vanilla pudding
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup lime juice

Instructions

1. Spray an 8-inch baking dish lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Combine the butter, granulated sugar and 1 1/2 cups of the crushed graham crackers in a medium bowl. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish and freeze for 15 minutes to set.
2. Combine the cream cheese, powdered sugar, salt, lime juice and two-thirds of the zest in a large bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Fold in 3/4 cup whipped topping to lighten. Pour the filling over the crust and smooth with an offset spatula. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to partially set. 
3. Meanwhile, mix the instant pudding powder, milk and lime juice in a bowl. Whisk until thick, about 2 minutes. Pour over the filling. Top with the remaining whipped topping, cover and refrigerate for 2 hours to set. 
4. Top with the remaining graham cracker crumbs and lime zest before serving. 

🔢 Calorie Count (Per Serving, Based on 12 Servings)

• Calories: ~310
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Total Carbs: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 25g
• Protein: 4g

💡 Note: Calories vary depending on how thick your crust is (aka how heavy‑handed you are with the butter).

🥕 Nutritional Facts & Fun

• Limes: Vitamin C + zingy freshness.
• Cream Cheese: Protein and richness.
• Cool Whip: Light, fluffy texture that makes this dessert dreamy.
• Graham Crackers: Crunchy base + a little fiber.

💬 Reader prompt: Do you sneak extra zest into recipes for that bold citrus punch, or do you keep it subtle?

👩‍🍳 Cooking Tips for Lush Success

• Chill Time Matters: Don’t rush it — the layers need time to set.
• Zest First, Juice Second: Trust me, it’s impossible the other way around.
• Smooth Layers: Use an offset spatula for bakery‑style clean layers.
• Make Ahead: This dessert actually tastes better the next day.
• Serving Hack: Dip your knife in hot water for perfect slices.

🔄 Recipe Variations

• Strawberry Lush: Swap lime juice for strawberry puree.
• Tropical Twist: Use pineapple juice and top with toasted coconut.
• Chocolate Lime Lush: Add a thin chocolate ganache layer between crust and cream cheese.
• Mini Lush Cups: Assemble in mason jars for individual servings.
• Holiday Version: Add crushed peppermint to the Cool Whip for a winter vibe.

💬 Reader prompt: Which version would you try first — tropical, chocolate, or mini jars?

🧒 Kid Tips

• Let kids crush the graham crackers (zip‑top bag + rolling pin = fun).
• Serve in small cups for kid‑friendly portions.
• Add sprinkles on top for a birthday vibe.
• Keep lime juice mild if your kids aren’t into tangy flavors.

🛒 Grocery Hacks

• Store Brand Pudding: Just as good as name brand.
• Cool Whip Tip: Buy extra — it freezes beautifully.
• Lime Hack: Microwave limes 10 seconds before juicing for max juice.
• Crust Shortcut: Pre‑made graham crusts save time.

🎯 Reader Challenge

Make this lush your own! Try the tropical twist, the chocolate layer, or even mini jars. Post your creation with #LouLouGirlsKeyLimeLush so we can all drool together and swap ideas.

🥪 Leftover Remix

• Lush Parfaits: Layer chunks with fruit and granola.
• Frozen Lush Bars: Freeze slices for a cool summer treat.
• Milkshake Magic: Blend a slice with milk for a lush shake.
• Breakfast Treat: Pair with coffee for the best morning ever.

💬 Reader prompt: Would you dare blend lush into a milkshake, or is that dessert overload?

💭 Final Thoughts

This Key Lime Lush is proof that dessert can be both simple and spectacular. With just a few ingredients and no oven required, you get a treat that’s creamy, tangy, and guaranteed to make people smile.

It’s also endlessly adaptable. You can keep it classic, go tropical, or even turn it into mini jars. And because it’s so easy, it’s perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just a random Tuesday when you need a little joy.

Here’s the thing about lush desserts — they’re more than just sweets. They’re comfort, celebration, and connection all layered into one dish. They’re the smell of lime zest filling your kitchen, the sight of fluffy Cool Whip clouds, and the sound of happy sighs as everyone digs in.

And this key lime version? It’s a little extra special. It’s bright, it’s creamy, and it’s guaranteed to make you the star of any gathering.

So here’s my challenge to you: make it, share it, and tell me your twist. Did you go tropical? Did you sneak a spoonful straight from the pan before serving? (No judgment — I’ve been there.) Snap a pic, post it, and tag it so we can all drool together.

💬 Reader prompt: Should we do a “Lush Desserts” series next? I’m dreaming up strawberry lush, chocolate peanut butter lush, and maybe even a pumpkin spice lush for fall.

Until then, may your limes be zesty, your layers creamy, and your kitchen full of laughter, love, and second helpings.

Did you try our Key Lime Lush recipe? What did you think? Did you love it? We would love to hear from you! Please leave us a comment below or tag us on Instagram!

 

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