1. Ingredients

For the creamy lime filling

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened

• 1 can (14 oz / 396 g) sweetened condensed milk

• ½ cup heavy whipping cream, cold

• ⅓ cup fresh lime juice, preferably Key lime juice

• 1 tbsp finely grated lime zest

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2–3 drops green food coloring, optional

For the crunchy layers

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar, optional

For the topping

• ½ cup whipped cream

• 2–3 fresh lime slices

• 2 tbsp graham cracker crumbs

• A little extra lime zest

2. Full step-by-step instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the graham cracker crumbs

1. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or a sealed bag and rolling pin.

2. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and optional sugar.

3. Stir until the crumbs resemble damp sand.

4. Set aside a small portion for garnishing the finished cups.

Step 2 — Beat the cream cheese

1. Place the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl.

2. Beat with an electric mixer for 2–3 minutes until completely smooth.

3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to remove any lumps.

4. Add the sweetened condensed milk gradually, beating until creamy and well combined.

Step 3 — Add the lime flavor

1. Add the fresh lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract.

2. Mix on low speed until smooth.

3. Add a tiny amount of green food coloring if you want the pale-green appearance shown in the picture.

4. Taste and adjust the lime zest to your preference.

Fresh lime juice adds the characteristic tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.

Step 4 — Whip the cream

1. In a separate chilled bowl, beat the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.

2. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture in two additions.

3. Use a spatula and slow folding movements to keep the filling light and fluffy.

Shortcut: You can substitute about 1½ cups of thawed whipped topping for the heavy cream and whipping step.

Step 5 — Assemble the parfait cups

1. Spoon or pipe a layer of graham cracker crumbs into the bottom of six clear dessert cups.

2. Add a generous layer of lime cream.

3. Sprinkle another thin layer of graham crumbs.

4. Add another layer of lime cream.

5. Repeat as needed, finishing with a generous swirl of cream on top.

For the neat, bakery-style layers shown in the image, use a piping bag or a large zip-top bag with one corner snipped off.

Step 6 — Garnish

Top each cup with whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, fresh lime zest, and a thin lime slice.

Keep the garnish light so the creamy filling remains the star.

Step 7 — Chill before serving

Cover the cups and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, preferably 4 hours, to allow the filling to set and the flavors to develop.

Serve chilled with a spoon or a wide dessert straw.

3. Quick recipe summary

4. Nutrition information

5. Nut information and allergens

• Nuts: No peanuts or tree nuts are intentionally included in this recipe.

• Dairy: Contains cream cheese, heavy cream, butter, and condensed milk.

• Wheat/gluten: Standard graham crackers generally contain wheat.

• Soy: Some packaged crackers and whipped toppings may contain soy ingredients.

• Eggs: Usually not required, but check the labels of packaged toppings and crackers.

For nut allergies, check every ingredient label for cross-contact warnings. For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free graham-style crumbs.

6. Storage tips

• Refrigerate in covered cups for up to 3 days.

• For the best crunchy texture, add the final graham cracker topping shortly before serving.

• Do not leave the dessert at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

• Freezing is possible, but the texture may become less smooth after thawing.

Pro tip: For an extra-tangy key lime pie flavor, add another teaspoon of lime zest rather than a large amount of extra juice. This boosts the citrus aroma without making the filling too loose.