No-Bake Keto Key Lime Pie Recipe

Summer in a bite! That’s the first thing that comes to mind when I think about this No-Bake Gluten-Free, Paleo & Keto Key Lime Pie. My family, always eager taste testers, absolutely devoured this pie. Even my notoriously picky nephew, who usually turns his nose up at anything remotely “healthy,” was back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). What’s not to love? It’s incredibly creamy, bursting with that signature tangy key lime flavor, and surprisingly light despite being rich and satisfying. The best part? It’s completely no-bake, meaning no heating up the kitchen – a true blessing during those sweltering summer months. Plus, knowing it’s packed with wholesome, good-for-you ingredients makes indulging in dessert feel absolutely guilt-free. Whether you’re following a keto, paleo, or gluten-free lifestyle, or just looking for a refreshingly delicious and easy dessert, this key lime pie is a guaranteed winner. Get ready to experience a taste of sunshine in every single bite!

Ingredients

This recipe is thoughtfully crafted to be both delicious and diet-friendly. We’re using wholesome, natural ingredients to create a dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising your health goals. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to whip up this amazing No-Bake Keto Key Lime Pie.

For the Keto Graham Cracker Crust

The crust is the foundation of any great pie, and this keto-friendly version perfectly mimics the classic graham cracker crust without any grains or refined sugars. Toasting the almond flour is a crucial step that elevates the flavor profile, adding a warm, nutty depth that complements the tangy filling beautifully.

• 192 g almond flour or meal (both work great!): Almond flour is the star of our keto crust. It provides a slightly sweet and nutty base, and its fine texture creates a wonderfully crumbly crust. Almond meal, which is slightly coarser, will also work perfectly, adding a bit more texture. Make sure to use blanched almond flour for the best results in terms of texture and taste.
• 1/4-1/2 cup powdered xylitol or sweetener of choice, to taste: Sweetness is essential for balancing the tartness of the key limes. Powdered xylitol blends seamlessly into the crust and filling, providing a clean, sweet taste without the blood sugar spikes associated with traditional sugar. You can adjust the amount to your personal preference. Other keto-friendly powdered sweeteners like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener can also be used as substitutes.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: A touch of cinnamon adds warmth and complexity to the crust, enhancing the overall flavor profile and complementing both the almond and key lime. It creates a subtle hint of spice that rounds out the sweetness perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Salt might seem counterintuitive in a dessert, but it’s a crucial ingredient for flavor enhancement. A pinch of kosher salt balances the sweetness, intensifies the other flavors, and prevents the pie from tasting flat.
• 56 g melted unsalted grass-fed butter or ghee/coconut oil, as needed: The binding agent for our crust. Melted butter provides a rich, buttery flavor and helps to create a cohesive and slightly crisp crust. For a paleo and dairy-free option, ghee (clarified butter) or coconut oil work equally well. Coconut oil will impart a subtle coconut flavor, which can be a delicious complement to the key lime. Use just enough melted fat to bring the dry ingredients together into a pressable mixture.

For the Keto Key Lime Pie Filling

The filling is where the magic truly happens! Avocado might sound like an unusual ingredient in a dessert, but trust me, it’s the secret to achieving that incredibly creamy and smooth texture without any dairy or refined sugars. Combined with the tangy key lime juice and zest, and the sweetness of xylitol, it creates a perfectly balanced and utterly irresistible filling.

• 400 g avocado (about 3): The unsung hero of this keto key lime pie! Ripe avocados provide the creamy, decadent texture that mimics traditional key lime pie fillings. Don’t worry, you won’t taste the avocado! Its mild flavor is completely masked by the key lime and sweetener, leaving behind only its luxurious creaminess. Ensure your avocados are ripe and soft for the smoothest filling.
• 250 g coconut cream chilled (see notes): Coconut cream is essential for adding richness and a subtle tropical note to the filling. Chilling the can of full-fat coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight allows the thick cream to separate from the watery liquid. You’ll only be using the thick cream at the top of the can for this recipe. This adds to the creamy texture and helps to create a more stable filling.
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated key lime zest: Key lime zest is packed with fragrant oils that are essential for that authentic key lime flavor. Zesting the limes before juicing them is much easier. Make sure to only zest the green part of the lime, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath.
• 80 ml freshly squeezed key lime juice to taste: Key lime juice is the star flavor! Freshly squeezed key lime juice is crucial for the best, most vibrant flavor. Bottled key lime juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh juice will always deliver a brighter and more authentic taste. Start with the lower amount and adjust to your liking, as key limes can vary in tartness.
• 1/3-1/2 cup powdered xylitol or sweetener of choice, to taste: Just like in the crust, powdered xylitol sweetens the filling without adding unnecessary carbs or spiking blood sugar. Adjust the amount to your personal preference, considering the tartness of your key limes. Taste as you go and add more sweetener until you reach your desired level of sweetness.
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon kosher salt to taste: Again, salt is crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the key lime flavor. A pinch of kosher salt will make all the difference, preventing the pie from tasting overly sweet or one-dimensional. Taste and adjust to your liking.

Instructions

This No-Bake Keto Key Lime Pie is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers! The steps are straightforward, and the no-bake aspect makes it a perfect dessert for warm weather or when you simply want a delicious treat without the fuss of baking.

For the Keto Graham Cracker Crust

1. Toast the Almond Flour: This step is crucial for developing the flavor of the crust. Place the almond flour in a skillet or pan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon until the almond flour turns light golden brown and fragrant, about 2-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn it! Toasting brings out the nutty notes and eliminates any raw almond flour taste, resulting in a much more delicious crust. You’ll know it’s ready when it smells toasty and nutty, similar to toasted nuts.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: Transfer the toasted almond flour to a medium bowl. Add the powdered xylitol (or sweetener of choice), cinnamon, and kosher salt. Whisk together until all ingredients are evenly combined. This ensures that the sweetness and spices are distributed throughout the crust.
3. Add Melted Fat: Pour the melted butter, ghee, or coconut oil over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or your hands until the mixture is evenly moistened and resembles damp sand. It should hold together when pressed. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more melted fat, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.
4. Press into Pie Dish: Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of an 8 or 9-inch pie dish. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create a smooth and even crust. Make sure to press firmly to create a sturdy base for the filling.
5. Chill the Crust: Allow the crust to come to room temperature. Then, place the pie dish in the freezer while you prepare the filling. Freezing the crust helps it to firm up quickly and prevents it from becoming soggy when the filling is added. This step is important for creating a crisp and structurally sound crust.

For the Keto Key Lime Pie Filling

1. Combine Filling Ingredients: In a high-speed blender or using an immersion blender, combine all the filling ingredients: avocado, chilled coconut cream (only the thick cream!), key lime zest, key lime juice, powdered xylitol (or sweetener of choice), and kosher salt. Start with the lower amounts of sweetener and salt, as you can always adjust later.
2. Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the filling is completely smooth and creamy. Stop and scrape down the sides of the blender jar as needed to ensure everything is fully incorporated. The blending process should break down the avocado completely, resulting in a silky smooth texture.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the filling and adjust the sweetness, tanginess, and seasoning to your preference. Add more xylitol for sweetness, more key lime juice for tanginess, or more salt to balance the flavors. Remember that the flavors will intensify as the pie chills, so it’s best to slightly undersweeten it at this stage. Key limes can vary in tartness, so tasting and adjusting is crucial for achieving the perfect balance.
4. Pour Filling into Crust: Remove the chilled crust from the freezer. Pour the key lime filling evenly over the crust. Spread it out smoothly with a spatula.

Chilling and Setting

1. Refrigerate or Freeze: For the best results and flavor development, refrigerate the pie preferably overnight, or for at least 4-6 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the filling to set firmly. The key lime flavor will become more pronounced and delicious after chilling.
2. Quick Set (Freezer Option): If you’re short on time, you can pop the pie in the freezer for about an hour to speed up the setting process. However, refrigeration is still recommended for optimal texture and flavor. Freezing for too long can make the filling too firm, so keep an eye on it.
3. Storage: Store the No-Bake Keto Key Lime Pie in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month or two. To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Nutrition Facts

This No-Bake Keto Key Lime Pie is not only delicious but also fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. It’s packed with healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

• Servings: 10 servings
• Calories: Approximately 297 kcal per serving

Please note: These nutritional values are estimates and may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more precise nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator and input the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

This recipe is designed for convenience, requiring minimal active time and no baking! Most of the time is hands-off chilling time, making it perfect for busy schedules.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes (for toasting almond flour)
• Chilling Time: 2 hours (minimum, preferably overnight)
• Total Time: 25 minutes + chilling time

How to Serve

This No-Bake Keto Key Lime Pie is delightful on its own, but a few simple serving suggestions can elevate it to the next level.

• Chilled: Always serve this pie chilled straight from the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor. The coldness enhances the refreshing key lime taste and keeps the filling firm.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped coconut cream is the perfect accompaniment. It adds extra creaminess and a touch of sweetness that complements the tart key lime filling. Simply whip the thick cream from a chilled can of full-fat coconut milk with a little sweetener of choice until soft peaks form.
• Lime Zest Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh key lime zest on top adds a pop of color and intensifies the key lime aroma. It’s a simple yet elegant garnish.
• Fresh Berries: A few fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries add a beautiful contrast in color and flavor. The tartness of berries pairs well with the key lime.
• Mint Sprigs: A sprig of fresh mint provides a refreshing herbal note and a visually appealing garnish. The mint aroma enhances the overall freshness of the pie.
• Crushed Almonds or Toasted Coconut Flakes: For added texture, sprinkle some crushed toasted almonds or toasted coconut flakes on top. This adds a delightful crunch and complements the flavors of the crust and filling.

Additional Tips for Pie Perfection

To ensure your No-Bake Keto Key Lime Pie turns out flawlessly every time, here are five essential tips:

1. Don’t Skip Toasting the Almond Flour: Toasting the almond flour is not just an extra step; it’s a flavor-enhancing technique that drastically improves the taste of the crust. It eliminates any raw almond flour taste and adds a warm, nutty depth that is crucial for a truly delicious crust. Take the few extra minutes to toast it properly – you won’t regret it!
2. Chill Your Coconut Cream Thoroughly: For the creamiest filling, make sure your can of full-fat coconut milk is thoroughly chilled in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the thick coconut cream to separate from the watery liquid, ensuring you only use the rich cream for the filling. Using only the thick cream is key to achieving the desired texture.
3. Taste and Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess: Key limes can vary significantly in tartness, and personal preferences for sweetness also differ. Always taste the filling before pouring it into the crust and adjust the sweetener and key lime juice to your liking. Start with the lower amounts suggested in the recipe and add more gradually until you reach your perfect balance of sweet and tart.
4. Freezer for a Quick Set, Fridge for Best Results: While the freezer can quickly set the pie in an hour, refrigeration for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, is recommended for the best texture and flavor development. Refrigeration allows the flavors to meld and deepen, and the filling sets to a perfect creamy consistency.
5. Make it Ahead for Stress-Free Dessert: This No-Bake Keto Key Lime Pie is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This makes it perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply having a delicious and healthy dessert ready whenever you crave it. It also allows the flavors to intensify even further as it sits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Got questions about making this No-Bake Keto Key Lime Pie? Here are answers to some common queries to help you succeed every time.

Q: Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

A: While key limes are traditionally used for key lime pie and have a unique, more floral and tart flavor, regular limes can be used as a substitute if key limes are unavailable. However, the flavor profile will be slightly different. Regular limes are generally less tart and have a slightly different aroma. If using regular limes, you may want to increase the amount of lime zest to compensate for the less intense flavor.

Q: Can I substitute the xylitol with another sweetener?

A: Yes, you can substitute powdered xylitol with other keto-friendly powdered sweeteners like erythritol, monk fruit sweetener, or stevia. Keep in mind that different sweeteners have varying sweetness levels, so you may need to adjust the amount accordingly. Start with the lower amount suggested in the recipe and taste as you go, adding more sweetener until you reach your desired level of sweetness.

Q: Can I make this pie vegan?

A: Yes, this recipe is already naturally dairy-free if you use coconut oil or ghee instead of butter for the crust. To make it fully vegan, ensure you are using a plant-based sweetener and that all other ingredients are vegan-friendly. The recipe as written is already very close to being vegan-friendly.

Q: How long does this pie last in the refrigerator?

A: This No-Bake Keto Key Lime Pie will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. The flavors may even improve slightly over time as they meld together. For longer storage, you can freeze the pie for up to a month or two.

Q: What if my filling is not firm after chilling?

A: If your filling is not firm enough after chilling, it could be due to a few reasons. Ensure you used only the thick coconut cream from chilled coconut milk, not the watery liquid. Also, make sure your avocados were ripe but not overly ripe. If the filling is still too soft, you can try placing it back in the freezer for another 30-60 minutes to help it firm up further. In most cases, proper chilling time in the refrigerator should be sufficient for the filling to set beautifully.

This No-Bake Gluten-Free, Paleo & Keto Key Lime Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor, health, and simplicity. It’s a testament to the fact that you can enjoy decadent treats without compromising your dietary goals or spending hours in the kitchen. So, go ahead, whip up this sunshine-filled pie and let the zesty key lime flavor transport you to a tropical paradise with every delicious, guilt-free bite!

Print