Key Lime Pie Tartlets

These Key Lime Pie Tartlets are like a burst of sunshine in every bite! Picture this: a buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy-sweet lime custard, and topped with a fluffy dollop of whipped cream. These mini tarts pack all the refreshing flavor of a classic Key lime pie, but in a fun, individual size. Perfect for summer parties, casual get-togethers, or even just as a treat when you’re craving something zesty and refreshing, these tartlets are sure to be a hit. Trust me, once you try one, you won’t be able to stop at just one!

Why You’ll Love Key Lime Pie Tartlets

The Perfect Balance of Sweet & Tangy

These tartlets are the perfect balance of tart lime and sweet, creamy filling. The tangy lime flavor is bright, refreshing, and just the right amount of puckering, while the creamy filling keeps everything perfectly smooth.

Bite-Sized Deliciousness

Mini desserts are always a win. These tartlets are perfectly portioned for individual servings, making them ideal for parties or special occasions. Plus, they’re so cute and impressive when served up on a platter!

No-Bake or Easy Bake Option

Whether you’re in the mood to bake or want a no-bake dessert, these tartlets can be easily adjusted to fit your preferences. Either way, they’re incredibly easy to make!

Make Ahead Friendly

If you’re looking for a dessert you can prep in advance, these tartlets are your answer! Make them the day before your event and let them chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients in Key Lime Pie Tartlets

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these tartlets a reality:

Graham Cracker Crumbs

The base of these tartlets is made with a buttery graham cracker crust that adds a satisfying crunch and sweetness to balance out the creamy filling.

Butter

Melted butter is what holds the graham cracker crust together and gives it that deliciously rich flavor.

Sweetened Condensed Milk

This is the secret to the creamy filling! Sweetened condensed milk gives the tartlets their luscious texture and rich sweetness.

Key Lime Juice

The star of the show! Fresh or bottled Key lime juice is the key ingredient that gives these tartlets their bright, tangy flavor. You can use regular lime juice in a pinch, but Key lime juice is truly what makes these tartlets special.

Egg Yolks

Egg yolks help thicken the filling and create that smooth, custard-like texture that makes Key lime pie so irresistible.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of freshly whipped cream is the perfect topping for these tartlets, adding a light, airy texture to balance the richness of the filling.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make some mini Key lime pie magic? Here’s how:

1. Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a little sugar. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture into the bottoms and up the sides of your tartlet pans. Bake at 350°F for about 8 minutes until golden and set aside to cool.

2. Make the Filling

In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, and Key lime juice until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and thick. Pour this filling into the cooled tart crusts, distributing it evenly.

3. Bake the Tartlets

Bake the tartlets at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. The filling should set but still have a slight jiggle in the center when done. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

4. Chill the Tartlets

Once cooled, place the tartlets in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the filling set and get that perfect creamy texture.

5. Add the Whipped Cream

Before serving, top each tartlet with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For an extra touch, you can garnish with lime zest or a lime slice.

6. Serve & Enjoy!

Serve these little beauties chilled and watch them disappear in seconds!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 200
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrates: 24g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 19g
Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Tartlets

Perfect for Parties

These tartlets are the ideal party dessert! Their individual size makes them easy to serve and grab, and they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, baby shower, or just a casual gathering, these tartlets will shine.

With a Hot Beverage

Serve these tartlets with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a refreshing yet indulgent treat. The tartness of the lime pairs beautifully with a rich espresso or light herbal tea.

Garnished with Fresh Fruit

For an extra pop of color and flavor, garnish your tartlets with fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. It adds an extra layer of sweetness and makes them even more eye-catching.

Serve Alongside a Fruit Salad

These tartlets would be the perfect pairing with a fresh fruit salad, complementing the zesty lime flavor with refreshing melon, pineapple, or citrus fruits.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Key Limes If You Can

If you have access to fresh Key limes, definitely go for them! They have a more intense, aromatic flavor than regular limes, which makes these tartlets extra special.

No Tartlet Pan? No Problem!

If you don’t have a tartlet pan, you can use a muffin tin to make these. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly.

Want to Skip the Baking?

If you prefer a no-bake version, simply make a graham cracker crust in the bottom of each tartlet pan, and refrigerate the crust for 30 minutes before filling with the lime mixture. No need to bake the filling, just chill it to set!

Make Ahead

These tartlets can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. They’re perfect for prepping ahead of time for parties or gatherings.

Customize the Crust

If you want a twist on the traditional graham cracker crust, feel free to experiment with crushed vanilla cookies or even coconut for a tropical flair.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use regular lime juice instead of Key lime juice?

A1: While Key lime juice gives these tartlets their signature flavor, you can substitute regular lime juice if you don’t have Key limes on hand. The taste will be slightly different but still delicious.

Q2: How can I make the crust gluten-free?

A2: You can use gluten-free graham crackers or even almond flour to make the crust gluten-free. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness as needed.

Q3: Can I make these tartlets without egg yolks?

A3: Yes! If you’re looking for an egg-free version, try using a thickening agent like cornstarch. You’ll still get that creamy, luscious texture!

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

A4: Store leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure the whipped cream is added right before serving.

Q5: Can I freeze these tartlets?

A5: Yes, these tartlets freeze well. Just freeze them before adding the whipped cream, then thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Q6: How do I make the whipped cream?

A6: To make fresh whipped cream, just beat heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. It’s super simple and adds a lovely airy texture to the tartlets!

Q7: Can I make a larger Key lime pie instead of tartlets?

A7: Absolutely! You can use the same recipe to make one large pie. Just adjust the baking time to about 15-20 minutes and follow the same chilling process.

Q8: Can I add something extra to the filling for a flavor twist?

A8: Yes, feel free to experiment! You can add a bit of coconut, vanilla extract, or even a swirl of fruit puree to the filling for a fun twist.

Q9: What can I use if I don’t have tartlet pans?

A9: A mini muffin tin or cupcake tin works just as well for making individual tartlets. Just make sure to grease the tin or line with paper liners.

Q10: How do I get the perfect graham cracker crust?

A10: Make sure to pack the graham cracker crumbs tightly into the tartlet pans for a sturdy crust. It’s important to bake it until golden to get that crisp texture.

Conclusion

These Key Lime Pie Tartlets are the perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and sweet. With their mini size, they’re both adorable and practical, making them a crowd favorite at any event. Whether you’re craving a refreshing dessert or need something easy to prep for a special occasion, these tartlets are sure to impress. Ready to make these little bites of sunshine? I know you are!

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