Can I make a vegan version of Key Lime Icebox Cake?

Absolutely! A vegan Key Lime Icebox Cake is simple to whip up. Swap out dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives like coconut condensed milk , coconut cream , and vegan graham crackers . You’ll still get that creamy, tangy bite with no compromise on flavor. Just layer, chill, and enjoy.

Is it safe to use raw eggs in the filling?

Most Key Lime Icebox Cake recipes don’t use raw eggs, unlike traditional key lime pie. If you find a version that calls for them, it’s best to skip or substitute with safer options like pasteurized eggs or thickeners like cream cheese or pudding mix . Since this is a no-bake dessert, sticking to egg-free versions is the safest and easiest route.

What are some variations or substitutions I can try?

There’s plenty of room to get creative: Use lemon juice or a lime-lemon blend if key limes aren’t available. Add toasted coconut , mango , or pineapple for a tropical twist. Try gluten-free graham crackers or vanilla wafers for alternative textures. For a richer filling, mix in cream cheese or mascarpone . The possibilities are endless—feel free to make it your own!

How long does Key Lime Icebox Cake last?

In the fridge, a well-covered Key Lime Icebox Cake stays fresh for 3 to 4 days . It gets even better after the first day as the layers meld together. Just be mindful that after day 4, it might start to get too soft.

How long should I refrigerate or freeze the cake?

Refrigerate for at least 6 hours , preferably overnight, for soft, creamy layers. Freeze for 2-3 hours if you want a firmer, ice cream cake-like texture. Either way, be sure to let it rest a few minutes before serving for easy slicing.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, you can use Persian limes (the standard supermarket limes) if key limes aren’t available. The flavor will be slightly less tart and floral, but still delicious. Fresh juice and zest are key for the best flavor.

What is a Key Lime Icebox Cake?

A Key Lime Icebox Cake is a no-bake dessert made by layering graham crackers (or similar cookies) with a lime-flavored creamy filling . Chilled until set, it offers a refreshing, tangy-sweet treat that’s perfect for hot days and easy entertaining. Think of it as a simplified key lime pie turned into a luscious, layered cake.

Key Lime Icebox Cake: 7 Easy Step to Perfect No-Bake Dessert

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups fresh key lime juice (about 20–25 key limes)
2 tablespoons key lime zest
2 cans sweetened condensed milk (14 oz each)
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 package graham crackers (or vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits)

Optional: 8 oz cream cheese for added richness

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and zest.
In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
Gently fold the whipped cream into the lime mixture until smooth and fluffy.
For a thicker filling, add softened cream cheese before folding in whipped cream.
Spread a thin layer of filling at the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish.
Add a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom.
Spread a layer of lime filling over the crackers.
Repeat the layers: crackers, filling, crackers, filling, until ingredients are used up.
Finish with a generous layer of filling on top, smoothing with a spatula.
Sprinkle extra lime zest and add key lime slices for garnish.

Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best results. Alternatively, freeze for 2-3 hours for a firmer texture, letting it sit at room temperature before serving.

Notes

For a tropical twist, add layers of mango or pineapple. Always taste the filling before assembling to adjust sweetness or tartness to your preference.

Author: Olivia
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 380
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 160mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: key lime, icebox cake, no-bake dessert, summer treat, easy dessert