I still remember the first time I made this Key Lime Pie Dip. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I wanted to surprise my friends with something refreshing yet simple. I had a frozen key lime pie sitting in my freezer, and instead of serving it the usual way, I decided to turn it into a creamy dip. Everyone loved it! Since then, it has become my go-to recipe whenever I need an easy dessert that feels special but takes minimal effort.
The best thing about this recipe is how it blends the smooth, creamy texture of whipped topping with the tangy sweetness of key lime pie. Every bite is a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, the graham crackers and cookies on the side make it feel like a fun, casual treat that everyone can enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the biggest reasons I love this Key Lime Pie Dip is how simple it is. You don’t need to bake anything or use complicated tools. In just a few minutes, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes amazing. It’s perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to spend hours in the kitchen but still want something homemade.
This dip also brings a refreshing twist to traditional desserts. The zesty lime combined with the creamy pudding makes every bite light and delightful. It’s a great way to end a meal or to enjoy as an afternoon treat.
Versatile
This recipe works well for many occasions. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a holiday party, or just a casual family gathering, it always fits in. You can easily serve it at a picnic or bring it to a potluck, and it always gets great feedback.
The dip can also be paired with different sides. I usually go for graham crackers, but shortbread cookies or pretzels also work perfectly. You can even try adding fresh fruits like strawberries for a fun twist.
Budget-Friendly
Another reason I make this dip so often is its low cost. Most of the ingredients are affordable and easy to find. You only need a few items, and chances are, you already have some of them in your pantry or fridge. This makes it a great option when you need to whip up something quickly without making a special trip to the store.
Ingredients for Recipe
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One EDWARDS® Key Lime Pie
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One small box of instant lemon pudding mix
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One cup of cold milk
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8 oz. of thawed whipped topping
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Your choice of dippers: graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or pretzels
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Lime (optional, for zest and garnish)
How to Make This Recipe
Making this Key Lime Pie Dip is one of the easiest ways to impress your guests with minimal effort. I always start by gathering all the ingredients to ensure everything is ready. Having everything at hand makes the process much smoother and quicker.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making
First, you will need to let the EDWARDS® Key Lime Pie thaw slightly. This step is important because it allows you to easily scoop out the filling without much resistance. Simply leave the pie at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, you can prepare the other ingredients.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the instant lemon pudding mix with the cold milk. I prefer using a whisk for this step because it blends the mixture smoothly and prevents lumps from forming. Stir constantly for about two minutes, or until the pudding thickens slightly. This step helps to create the base for the creamy dip.
Then, carefully scoop out the key lime pie filling from the crust. Make sure to remove as much of the filling as possible without including the crust. Add the filling into the bowl with the pudding mixture. I like to use a rubber spatula for this step because it scrapes the filling cleanly from the pie shell.
Once the filling is added, fold the mixture gently until the pudding and pie filling are fully combined. Take your time during this step, as folding gently keeps the texture light and fluffy. After that, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping. Again, use slow, circular motions to maintain the airy texture of the dip.
When everything is fully mixed, transfer the dip into a serving dish. If desired, you can add a bit of lime zest on top for extra flavor and color. Finally, arrange your dippers around the serving dish. Graham crackers are a classic choice, but shortbread cookies or pretzels also work wonderfully.
Quick and Easy
This recipe truly shines because of its simplicity. From start to finish, it takes less than fifteen minutes to prepare. You don’t need to bake anything, and there’s no complicated equipment required. Everything comes together quickly, yet it tastes like a dessert that took hours to make.
Customizable
Another great feature of this recipe is how easily you can customize it. While I usually use instant lemon pudding mix, you can substitute it with vanilla pudding for a milder flavor. The whipped topping can also be replaced with homemade whipped cream if you prefer a richer taste.
You can also get creative with the dippers. Graham crackers are a traditional choice, but cookies like vanilla wafers, shortbread, or even fresh fruits such as strawberries or apple slices can provide interesting flavor combinations. You can even try adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a unique touch.
Crowd-Pleasing
Whenever I serve this dip at gatherings, it quickly becomes the centerpiece of the table. Everyone loves the refreshing lime flavor and creamy texture. It’s a dessert that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Guests often ask for the recipe, which is always a sign that a dish is a success. The dip also holds up well at room temperature for a couple of hours, making it ideal for parties and potlucks. I often double the recipe when serving a large crowd, and it always gets finished by the end of the event.
FAQs
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, you can easily prepare this dip in advance. In fact, making it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to blend even more. Simply cover the dip tightly and refrigerate it until you are ready to serve.
What can I use instead of graham crackers for dipping?
There are many great options besides graham crackers. Shortbread cookies, vanilla wafers, and pretzels all pair wonderfully with the creamy, tangy dip. You can also use fresh fruits like strawberries or apple slices for a refreshing twist.
How long does this dip last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the dip will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving again to restore its creamy texture.
Can I freeze the leftover dip?
I don’t recommend freezing this dip. Freezing tends to change the texture, making it less creamy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or after a short time in the refrigerator.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free whipped topping and plant-based milk alternatives for a dairy-free version. However, you will also need to use a dairy-free pie or make your own key lime filling with dairy-free ingredients.
Key Lime Pie Dip
This creamy Key Lime Pie Dip is a refreshing, no-bake dessert that combines the zesty taste of key lime pie with the ease of a simple dip. It’s light, tangy, and perfect for gatherings, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale-
One EDWARDS® Key Lime Pie
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One small box of instant lemon pudding mix
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One cup of cold milk
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8 oz. thawed whipped topping
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Graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or pretzels for dipping
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Lime (optional, for zest and garnish)
Instructions
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Let the EDWARDS® Key Lime Pie thaw at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk the instant lemon pudding mix with the cold milk for about two minutes until slightly thickened.
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Scoop the key lime pie filling from the crust and add it to the pudding mixture, avoiding the crust as much as possible.
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Gently fold the pudding and pie filling together until fully blended.
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Carefully fold in the thawed whipped topping, using slow, circular motions to maintain the creamy texture.
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Transfer the dip to a serving dish.
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Optionally, garnish with lime zest.
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Serve with graham crackers, shortbread cookies, pretzels, or fresh fruit.
Notes
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This dip can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
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It pairs well with various dippers such as cookies or fruit.
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For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free substitutes for pudding, whipped topping, and pie filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes