Cottage Cheese Key Lime Pie Jars
These individual key lime pie jars are a creamy, refreshing twist on the classic dessert—made lighter with protein-rich cottage cheese. Whipped until silky smooth and combined with fresh lime juice, this mousse-like filling is layered with a crunchy graham cracker crumble and served in jars for the perfect portable treat. No baking, no fuss—just zesty, wholesome indulgence.
Prep Time & Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours (optional but recommended)
Total Time: 20–120 minutes
Ingredients
For the Crust Layer:
1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full crackers)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Pinch of salt
For the Key Lime Filling:
1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat or 2%)
3–4 tbsp fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
1–2 tsp lime zest
2–3 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
Whipped cream or whipped coconut cream
Extra lime zest
Crushed graham crackers or toasted coconut
Lime wedges (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Make the Crust
In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with olive oil sweetener (if using), and a pinch of salt.
Stir until the texture is like wet sand.
Spoon about 2 tablespoons into the bottom of each jar and press lightly to form a base.
2. Blend the Filling
Add cottage cheese, lime juice, zest, honey/maple syrup, and vanilla to a high-speed blender or food processor.
Blend for 1–2 minutes until completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Assemble the Jars
Spoon or pipe the key lime filling over the crust layer in each jar.
Smooth the tops with a spoon or spatula.
Optional: Add another sprinkle of crumbs or toppings.
4. Chill (Optional)
Chill for at least 1 hour before serving for a firmer texture and deeper flavor.
Notes & Tips
Cottage cheese tip: Blending removes the curds and makes it ultra-smooth—don’t skip this step!
Lime juice: Key lime juice is more aromatic and tart than regular lime juice, but both work.
Sweetness: Taste before final blending—adjust honey/maple to your liking.
Make ahead: These jars keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days—great for meal prep or entertaining.
For extra protein: Add 1–2 tablespoons of vanilla protein powder to the filling.
Frequently asked questions FAQs
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
A: Yes, but it will have a slightly tangier taste and less of a cheesecake-like texture.
Q: Is this dessert gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make it GF-friendly.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Use dairy-free cottage cheese or silken tofu and plant-based butter in the crust.
Q: Can I freeze these jars?
A: Yes! Freeze without toppings for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Q: Do I need a high-speed blender?
A: A regular blender will work, but a high-speed blender gives the smoothest texture.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~220
Protein: 9–11g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugars: 10g (mostly natural)
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 200mg
Calcium: 10% DV
Vitamin C: 15% DV
Values may vary slightly based on specific ingredients and portion size.