Key Lime Pie Shooters are a delightful, miniaturized version of the classic Key Lime Pie. These shooters feature layers of tangy key lime filling, creamy whipped topping, and a crunchy graham cracker crust, all presented in individual shot glasses. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a fun, bite-sized dessert, these shooters are both visually appealing and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Key Lime Pie Shooters for their perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors, combined with a creamy texture and a crunchy base. These shooters are easy to make and serve, making them an ideal choice for entertaining. The individual portions are both convenient and charming, ensuring that everyone gets a taste of this classic dessert in a fun, new format.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use fresh key limes: For the best flavor, use fresh key limes. If unavailable, bottled key lime juice or regular lime juice can be used as substitutes.
Chill the filling: Ensure the key lime filling is well chilled before assembling the shooters for the best texture.
Layer evenly: Use a piping bag or a small spoon to layer the filling and whipped cream neatly in the shot glasses.
Make ahead: These shooters can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them a convenient option for parties.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Different crust: Use crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers for a different twist.
Add zest: Add lime zest to the filling or as a garnish for an extra burst of flavor.
Tropical twist: Mix in some shredded coconut into the crust or sprinkle on top for a tropical variation.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this recipe gluten-free.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve Key Lime Pie Shooters chilled, directly from the refrigerator. They pair beautifully with a variety of beverages, such as a light dessert wine, coffee, or a refreshing iced tea. These shooters are perfect for any gathering, from casual get-togethers to elegant parties.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store the assembled shooters in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cover them lightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
No reheating needed: These shooters are best enjoyed chilled, so reheating is not necessary.

Recipe FAQs

What size shot glasses should I use? Use 2-ounce shot glasses for perfect, bite-sized portions.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes? Yes, regular limes can be used if key limes are not available.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy? Ensure the crust layer is well packed and the filling is thick enough. Assembling the shooters shortly before serving can also help.

Can I use store-bought whipped cream? Yes, store-bought whipped cream can be used for convenience.

Key Lime Pie Shooters

Yield: 12 shooters

Indulge in the zesty allure of Key Lime Pie Shooters. A tantalizing fusion of freshly squeezed key limes and a buttery graham cracker crust.

Ingredients

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (about 10-12 key limes)
Zest of 2 key limes

For Garnish

Freshly whipped cream
Grated lime zest
Fresh lime slices
Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar, mixing until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of mini shot glasses or small dessert cups to form the crust layer.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh key lime juice, and grated key lime zest until well combined.
Spoon the key lime filling over the graham cracker crust in each shot glass, filling them almost to the top.
Place the shooters in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set.
Before serving, garnish each shooter with a dollop of freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of grated lime zest, a fresh lime slice, and a small mint leaf for an extra touch of tropical freshness.

Notes

If fresh key limes are not available, you can use regular limes or bottled key lime juice as a substitute.

For a fun twist, you can add a small splash of coconut milk to the filling for a hint of tropical creaminess.

To save time, you can use store-bought graham cracker crumbs instead of crushing whole graham crackers.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 12 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 81Total Fat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 9mgSodium: 37mgCarbohydrates: 11gFiber: 1gSugar: 6gProtein: 1g