Key Lime Dip
If you’re looking for something that tastes like key lime cheesecake but takes about 10 minutes to throw together, this is it. No baking, no water bath, no fuss. Just a creamy, tangy dip you can serve straight from the bowl with graham crackers or Nilla wafers.
If you love key lime pie or key lime cheesecake, then this key lime dip is for you! It tastes like key lime pie meets cheesecake in a fluffy, creamy dip.
This key lime dip has been on our site for 4 years, and it’s hands down one of my favorite recipes. We start with softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, a touch of sour cream, then add real key lime juice to make this delicious dessert dip.
One thing that sets this recipe apart: we use Nellie & Joe’s key lime juice, not regular Persian lime juice standing in for the real thing.
The flavor difference is noticeable. Key limes are more floral and tart, and that’s exactly what you want.
We also use sour cream instead of sweetened condensed milk, which keeps it lighter and lets the tartness come through without a ton of extra sweetness. It’s basically key lime cheesecake in scoopable form, and that was always the point.
It’s similar to our turtle cheesecake dip, only we’ve swapped out the chocolate and caramel flavors with key lime. If you love dessert dips, try our toffee apple dip or white chocolate raspberry cheesecake dip!
How to make key lime dip:
💡 Tip: Soft cream cheese is non-negotiable. If the cream cheese is even slightly cold, the dip will turn out lumpy no matter how long you mix it. Pull it out of the fridge at least an hour before you start.
In a hurry? Cut it into chunks and let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes. If you can, beat the cream cheese by itself for about a minute before adding everything else. It makes a real difference in getting that silky, smooth texture.
What to serve with key lime dip?
Our favorites are classic graham crackers and Nilla wafers. Both hold up well to the thick, creamy dip without breaking. Graham crackers give you that classic key lime pie vibe; Nilla wafers are a little sweeter and more delicate, which balances the tartness nicely.
If you’re setting this out for a party, put out a few options and let people mix and match. Fresh strawberries are also a great call if you want to lean into the fruit dip direction.
Can you make key lime pie dip with marshmallow fluff?
Yes, you can. We have not tried marshmallow fluff in our recipe; however, this Key Lime Pie Fruit Dip uses marshmallow fluff and sweetened condensed milk.
Can you use regular lime juice in place of key lime juice?
Absolutely, but it won’t taste the same. The dip will actually be “lime dip” instead of “key lime dip,” but the substitution is fine. You may need to use a little more lime juice to get the same amount of lime flavor.
Can I make this key lime dip ahead of time?
Yes, and it holds up really well. You can make it a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
If you’re taking it somewhere, pack the graham cracker crumb topping separately and add it right before serving so it doesn’t get soggy.
Where do you find key lime juice at the grocery store?
We use Nellie & Joe’s bottled key lime juice, which you can usually find in the juice or baking aisle at most grocery stores. If your local store doesn’t carry it, it’s easy to find online.
You can also squeeze fresh key limes, but you’ll need quite a few of them since they’re small. The bottled version works great and saves a lot of time.
Can you add lime zest to this dip?
You can, and it adds a nice pop of citrus flavor. It’s not something we always do, but if you have a lime on hand and want a little extra brightness, go for it. A teaspoon or so stirred in or sprinkled on top is plenty.
Other key lime recipes you may love:
How to Video
Ingredients
- 16 ounces block-style cream cheese, softened
- 1 ⅔ cups powdered sugar
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons key lime juice, or more to taste
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 dash green food coloring, optional
- ¼ cup graham cracker crumbs, for garnish
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Instructions
- Beat the softened cream cheese alone for about 1 minute until smooth.16 ounces block-style cream cheese
- Add the powdered sugar, sour cream, key lime juice, vanilla, and green food coloring if using. Mix until smooth and creamy.1 ⅔ cups powdered sugar⅓ cup sour cream2 tablespoons key lime juice1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 dash green food coloring
- Transfer dip to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs.¼ cup graham cracker crumbs
- Serve with graham crackers or cookies. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.