Dessert

Creamy Key Lime Mousse Cups – No-Bake Summer Dessert Recipe

Name: Creamy Key Lime Mousse Cups – No-Bake Summer Dessert Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; ¼ cup fresh key lime juice; 1 tablespoon key lime zest; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; ¼ cup melted butter; 1 tablespoon lime zest; 1 cup whipped cream; 4 mini lime slices; ¼ cup crushed graham cracker crumbs (optional)

ByNaomi Fletcher January 20, 2026January 20, 2026

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Introduction

Indulge in these creamy Key Lime Mousse Cups, a refreshing no-bake dessert that captures the bright, tangy flavor of key limes in a light and airy treat. With just 15 minutes of prep and no oven needed, this mousse is perfect for hot summer days or any occasion that calls for a delightful, easy-to-make dessert.

The image shows five small clear glass cups filled with a light green creamy pudding layer. On top of each pudding, there is a thick swirl of white whipped cream with a smooth, fluffy texture. Light green zest is sprinkled on the whipped cream as decoration. The cups are placed on a white marbled surface, and near the front, there is one whole lime and one lime half with a juicy, fresh look. The background is softly blurred, focusing on the cups. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
¼ cup fresh key lime juice
1 tablespoon key lime zest
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Optional crust:

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup melted butter

For garnish:

1 tablespoon lime zest
Whipped cream
4 mini lime slices
¼ cup crushed graham crackers (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Zest and juice enough key limes to get ¼ cup juice and 1 tablespoon zest. Prepare your serving cups for assembly.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on medium speed until smooth and lump-free, about 2 minutes. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and zest, mixing until creamy and well combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar on high speed until stiff peaks form, about 4-5 minutes, creating a light and fluffy texture.
Step 4: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture in thirds, taking care to keep the mousse light and airy without deflating the whipped cream.
Step 5: If using, press graham cracker crumbs mixed with melted butter into the bottom of each serving cup. Spoon or pipe the mousse into cups, filling about three-quarters full. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours until set.
Step 6: Before serving, top each mousse cup with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of lime zest, and a mini lime slice. Optionally, add crushed graham crackers for extra texture.

Tips & Variations

Use full-fat cream cheese and ensure it is fully softened to avoid lumps in the mousse.
Whip the cream to stiff peaks carefully to maintain a light texture; avoid overwhipping to prevent graininess.
For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist.
Try adding fresh berries between layers for a fruity surprise.
Enhance the flavor by folding in a dash of lime extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom.
Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top for a decadent contrast.
Serve in mini cups or shot glasses for fun individual portions.

Storage

Store leftover mousse cups covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and creamy. For longer storage, freeze the mousse in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. These cups are best enjoyed chilled and should not be reheated. Add garnishes just before serving to maintain their freshness and appearance.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of five small clear glass cups filled with light green mousse-like dessert. Each cup is topped with a tall swirl of white whipped cream, sprinkled with small bits of lime zest on top. The cups rest on a white marbled surface, with a whole lime and a cut lime half placed casually in the foreground. The soft lighting highlights the smooth texture of the mousse and the creamy, fluffy whipped cream, creating a fresh and inviting look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What type of cream cheese should I use?

Full-fat cream cheese is best for a rich, creamy mousse. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure a smooth texture without lumps. Reduced-fat options can be used but may affect the creaminess.

Can I freeze Key Lime Mousse Cups?

Yes, you can freeze the mousse cups for up to 1 month using freezer-safe containers. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different after freezing.