Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe (2024)

Home / Recipes / Cake Mix Cookies / Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe

ByJunePublishedUpdated

Jump to Recipe

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE SALES LINKS. PLEASE SEE OUR FULL DISCLOSURE POLICY FOR DETAILS

If you love key lime pie, this Easy Key Lime Cookies recipe needs to be on your to-do list. The soft graham cracker cookie is topped with a perfect key lime frosting and whipped topping. They are sure to be everyone’s new favorite cookie!

Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe (1)
Table of Contents
  • The PERFECT Cookie
  • What goes into this Recipe
  • How to make the BEST Key Lime Cookies
  • Expert Tips
  • Storing and Freezing
  • Recipe FAQs
  • Do you love cake mix cookies? Try these awesome recipe…
  • Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe

Free Email Series

5 Secrets To The Perfect Cookie

Tips & tricks to achieve the most delicious cookies of your life!

The PERFECT Cookie

You will flip over the wonderful lime flavor in this amazing dessert that is made with simple ingredients. Starting with a soft graham cracker cookie and finishing with a beautiful frosting that is essentially cheesecake and full of the flavor of key limes.

Finally a bit of whipped cream brings everything together into an easy key lime cookie recipe that totally rocks. They are amazing during the summer but can be made any time of year.

What goes into this Recipe

Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe (2)
  • Vanilla Cake Mix- The perfect starting point for these delicious graham cracker cake mix cookies.
  • Light Brown Sugar- Adding additional brown sugar to the graham cracker cookie dough gives it a wonderful flavor.
  • Graham Crackers- Be sure to either purchase or use your food processor to create very fine crumbs. You can use them for these Raspberry Cheesecake Cookies too!
  • Butter- One of my favorite baking ingredients!
  • Eggs- A couple are added to help hold the ingredients together and give them a nice soft texture.
  • Cream Cheese- Added to the key lime filling for a nice zesty and creamy touch.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk- An ingredient that works perfectly with the tanginess of the key lime juice.
  • Key Lime Juice- A good key lime dessert would be lost without this tart flavor. The citrus flavor brings everything together and will transport you to the beaches of Key West.
  • Powdered Sugar- For a bit of extra sweetness.

See recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

How to make the BEST Key Lime Cookies

1.Combine the cake mix, brown sugar and graham crackers in a large bowl. Whisk to combine the ingredients.

2. Add the melted butter and eggs. Mix using an electric mixer to combine the ingredients until you have a thick dough.

Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe (3)

Use a 1/4 measuring cup to make cookie dough balls. Form them into discs and place 6 onto a silicone {or parchment paper} lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, remove from the oven and place the sheet on a wire rack. Immediately use the bottom of a drinking glass to form an indentation into the middle of all baked cookies.

Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe (4)

Once the cookies are cooled, combine the room temperature cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk with a hand held mixer until smooth. Next, add the lime juice and powdered sugar, continue to mix until you have a smooth and creamy key lime cheesecake filling.

Add the mixture to a piping bag and pipe the filling into the indentations {or spoon the filling} of the graham cracker cookie base.

Add whipped topping to a piping bag fitted with a star attachment and pipe a small amount to the tops of the cookies.

Finish with a wedge of lime and enjoy!

Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe (5)

Expert Tips

  • Purchase graham cracker crumbs from the supermarket and save yourself time. They are in the same section as the pie filling and ready made pie crusts.
  • Instead of juicing key limes, use key lime juice from a jar. It is available for purchase at most major grocery stores. I use it in this no bake Key Lime Pie too!
  • Soften the cream cheese before using. When the cream cheese isn’t softened correctly the filling will not be wonderful and silky smooth.
  • Add a teaspoon of regular lime zest to the frosting for a special touch. It gives the cookies a deeper lime flavor and looks gorgeous!
  • Don’t over bake the cookies. Over baking is something that can really affect the overall outcome and result in hard cookies instead of chewy cookies.

Storing and Freezing

Store- The best way to store Crumbl Key Lime Pie Cookies is in the refrigerator. They should be in an airtight container, in a single layer and will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Freeze- You can freeze Key Lime Pie Cookies for up to 3 months. I would suggest freezing the cookies and then filling them with the key lime filling after defrosting for the freshest and best texture.

Recipe FAQs

What is the difference between key limes and regular limes?

There are a few differences between key and regular limes. First of all, key limes are much smaller than a regular lime. Secondly, key limes have a different flavor. They are more acidic and have a tangy tart taste while regular limes are not as strong.

Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice?

Regular lime juice is a great substitute {and the next best thing} for key lime juice if you can’t find it. There is a bit of a difference in taste, as key limes are a bit more tart and have a stronger taste than a regular lime would have.

How do I make mini Lime Pie Cookies?

It is easy to make these large Copycat Crumbl Key Lime Pie Cookies into mini versions. Start by using 2 tablespoons of dough {or use a medium cookie scoop} for each cookie mound, form into a disc and bake for 7-9 minutes.

Make the indentation of a tart shaper or a smaller object and fill as directed. The recipe will make 20-22 mini Lime Pie Cookies.

Do I make the indentation in the Key Lime Pie Cookies before or after baking?

The best way is to make the indentations after the cookie is baked because otherwise the space will bake flat. Once you pull the cookies from the oven, take the bottom of a drinking glass and press down to create an area where you can fill it with the delicious key lime filling.

Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe (6)

Do you love cake mix cookies? Try these awesome recipe…

  • Super Easy Lemon Cooler Cookies Recipe
  • Easy Coconut Pecan Cookies Recipe
  • Easy Lucky Charms Cookies
  • Easy Cinnamon Coffee Cake Cookies

Did you try this recipe?
Leave a ⭐️ reviewbelow andtag @practicallyhomemadeonPinterest!

Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe (11)

Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe

A soft graham cracker cookie is topped with a perfectly tart key lime cheesecake frosting and whipped cream for the ultimate dessert!

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Author: June Albertson-Dick

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 19 minutes minutes

Total Time: 37 minutes minutes

Servings: 12 cookies

Calories: 547kcal

4.45 from 29 votes

Pin Print

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Cookie

  • 1 box vanilla cake mix {15.25 ounces}
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar {packed}
  • 1 ¼ cup graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup butter {melted}
  • 2 eggs

Key Lime Cheesecake Frosting

  • 16 ounces cream cheese {softened}
  • 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup key lime juice {or lime juice}
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar

Topping

  • ¼ cup whipped topping

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°.

Graham Cracker Cookies

  • In a medium bowl combine the vanilla cake mix, brown sugar and graham cracker crumbs. Whisk to combine the dry ingredients.

  • Add the melted butter and eggs to the dry ingredients and mix using a hand held or stand mixer until you have a thick dough.

  • Use a ¼ measuring cup to measure out dough and form each dough mound into a large disc. Place 6 onto a silicone mat {or parchment} lined baking sheet. Bake for 9-11 minutes or until set. Remove from the oven and use the bottom of a drinking glass to make an indentation into each cookie. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. Continue until all of the dough is baked.

Key Lime Cheesecake Frosting

  • Once the cookies have cooled, combine the softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk in a medium bowl with a hand held mixer until smooth. Add key lime juice and powdered sugar, continue to mix until you have a creamy filling.

  • Add the filling to a piping bag or spoon the filling into the indentations of each cookie. Sprinkle the top of the filling with a few additional graham cracker crumbs.

  • To finish the cookies, add whipped topping to a piping bag, fitted with the star attachment {or a zipper bag} and pipe a bit of whipped topping in the middle of each cookie. Add a wedge of lime and serve.

Video

Notes

  • Purchase graham cracker crumbs from the supermarket and save yourself time. They are in the same section as the pie filling and ready made pie crusts.
  • Instead of juicing key limes, use key lime juice from a jar. It is available for purchase at most major grocery stores.
  • Add a teaspoon of regular lime zest to the frosting for a special touch.It gives the cookies a deeper lime flavor and looks gorgeous!

Store- The best way to store Crumbl Key Lime Pie Cookies is in the refrigerator. They should be in a single layer and will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Freeze- You can freeze Key Lime Pie Cookies for up to 3 months. I would suggest freezing the cookies and then filling them with the key lime filling after defrosting for the freshest and best texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 547kcal | Carbohydrates: 70g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 97mg | Sodium: 591mg | Potassium: 247mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 47g | Vitamin A: 878IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 245mg | Iron: 1mg

Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!Mention @PracticallyHomemade or tag #practicallyhomemade!

Easy Key Lime Cookies Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Can I use regular limes in place of key limes? ›

There is a slight flavor difference between Persian limes and Key limes. But when baked into a dessert like Key lime blondies, it's hard to tell the difference. So if you can't find Key limes, go ahead and use Persian limes. You'll still wind up with a delicious summer pie.

What is the secret to a good cookie? ›

The key is to always use top-quality ingredients as they'll result in a better cookie; it really is that simple.
  • Always use butter.
  • Choose the right sugar.
  • Choose the right flour.
  • Check your flour is in date.
  • Choose the right kind of chocolate.
  • Cream the butter and sugar.
  • Beat in the eggs.
  • Fold in the flour.

What is the difference between a Key lime and a regular lime? ›

A Key lime, also known as a Mexican lime, West Indian lime, or Florida Key lime, is significantly smaller and rounder. Key limes also contains seeds, while the Persian limes — sometimes called a Tahitian limes — found in grocery stores typically do not.

What is the best substitute for Key lime juice? ›

You may substitute the key lime juice with a mixture of 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice and 1/4 cup fresh lime juice.

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh? ›

Nothing will bring forward the bright, citrusy, natural flavors and acidity like fresh squeezed limes. However, bottled lime juice is certainly a convenient option. If you decide to go this route, make sure to choose a high-quality brand that is 100% lime juice with no added sweeteners or flavors.

Are key limes more sour than regular limes? ›

With a key lime, you can rest assured that it won't be on the acidic side. As compared to your standard lime, you'll notice a world of difference in the levels of acidity between the two. In fact, when comparing the two, regular limes have a lower PH and higher acidity than key limes.

What does key limes do for the body? ›

It is widely used because of its antibacterial, anticancer, antidiabetic, antifungal, anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammation, anti-lipidemia, and antioxidant properties; moreover, it can protect heart, liver, bone, and prevent urinary diseases.

Why is key lime so expensive? ›

Nearly every lime Americans eat comes from Mexico, but lime prices spiked almost $4 in early 2022, and stores had trouble keeping their shelves stocked. Droughts, extreme heat, and disease have hit farms across Mexico, making it hard to keep up.

Are Mexican key limes the same as Florida key limes? ›

Speaking as someone who lived an hour from the Florida Keys for many years, Mexican limes are NOT the same as Key Limes!! They're about the same size, but Mexican limes are sweeter and bright green on the outside. Key Limes are much more flavorful and tart, and the skin is a pale yellow-ish green.

Why are they called Key limes? ›

The name comes from its association with the Florida Keys, where it is best known as the flavoring ingredient in Key lime pie. It is also known as West Indian lime, bartender's lime, Omani lime, or Mexican lime, the last classified as a distinct race with a thicker skin and darker green colour.

Is Key lime healthier than lemon? ›

Both lemons and limes have similar nutrients. Lemons contain more vitamin C and antioxidant flavonoids than limes. However, limes have slightly higher levels of minerals and vitamins than lemons. For example, limes have more niacin, calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium than lemons.

How many key limes equal one lime? ›

On the West Coast, Key limes are sometimes labeled Mexican limes. They are excellent in such cocktails as mojitos and margaritas, but you'll need 3 Key limes to equal 1 Persian lime. Bottled Key lime juice can have a chemical flavor and should be avoided.

Why are key limes so expensive? ›

Nearly every lime Americans eat comes from Mexico, but lime prices spiked almost $4 in early 2022, and stores had trouble keeping their shelves stocked. Droughts, extreme heat, and disease have hit farms across Mexico, making it hard to keep up. In very dry conditions, the lime skin is too smooth and may turn yellow.

How do I choose key limes? ›

Unlike larger Persian limes, the smaller key lime has a slightly yellow coloring when it's fully ripe. The skin should have a fine grain like leather. An entirely yellow lime has reached the peak of maturity. These limes are very bitter, and most people find them unappealing.

Is lime concentrate the same as lime juice? ›

What is the difference between concentrate and not from concentrate lime juice? Lime juice concentrate is made by pressing fresh limes and juicing the pulp. This is then heated, so the liquid evaporates. This leaves a thick solution, which ends up being 6 times stronger than normal lime juice.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Van Hayes

Last Updated:

Views: 5792

Rating: 4.6 / 5 (66 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Van Hayes

Birthday: 1994-06-07

Address: 2004 Kling Rapid, New Destiny, MT 64658-2367

Phone: +512425013758

Job: National Farming Director

Hobby: Reading, Polo, Genealogy, amateur radio, Scouting, Stand-up comedy, Cryptography

Introduction: My name is Van Hayes, I am a thankful, friendly, smiling, calm, powerful, fine, enthusiastic person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.