These creamy lime dessert cups feature buttery cookie crumbs, a rich no-bake cheesecake filling, and fluffy whipped cream. They’re perfect for parties, holidays, or whenever you want a refreshing dessert without turning on the oven.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8 dessert cups
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 can (14 oz / 396 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 can (12 oz / 354 ml) evaporated milk
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cookie Layer

• 18–20 Maria cookies (about 200 g), crushed
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for extra richness)

For the Whipped Topping

• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish

• Lime slices
• Extra lime zest
• Maria cookies
• White chocolate shavings (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crumbs

1. Crush the Maria cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin.
2. Mix with melted butter if using.
3. Set aside.

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Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl combine:

• Cream cheese
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Evaporated milk
• Lime juice
• Lime zest
• Vanilla

Beat with an electric mixer for 3–4 minutes until completely smooth and creamy.

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Step 3: Make the Whipped Cream

Beat together:

• Heavy whipping cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla

until stiff peaks form.

Fold about ½ cup of the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture for an extra light texture.

Reserve the remaining whipped cream for decorating.

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Step 4: Assemble

In each serving cup:

1. Add cheesecake filling.
2. Sprinkle cookie crumbs.
3. Add another layer of cheesecake filling.
4. Repeat if desired.
5. Pipe whipped cream on top.
6. Garnish with lime zest, lime slice, and one Maria cookie.

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Step 5: Chill

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Overnight chilling gives the best texture.

Serve cold.

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🍽 Serving Size

1 dessert cup

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📊 Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

Nutrition values are estimates and will vary depending on the brands used.

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💡 Tips

• Always use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling.
• Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor.
• Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.
• Pipe the whipped cream just before serving for the freshest appearance.
• Freeze for 1 hour for an ice cream-like dessert.

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🍴 Variations

Strawberry Lime

Add 1 cup diced strawberries between the layers.

Mango Lime

Mix 1 cup mango puree into the filling.

Lemon Cheesecake

Replace lime juice with fresh lemon juice.

Chocolate Version

Add chocolate cookie crumbs and chocolate shavings.

Tropical

Add toasted coconut and pineapple pieces.

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🧊 Storage

Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Freezer: Up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

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❓Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1. Can I make these dessert cups ahead of time?

Yes. They can be prepared 1–2 days in advance and kept refrigerated.

Q2. Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used if needed.

Q3. Can I substitute the Maria cookies?

Yes. Graham crackers, digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies all work well.

Q4. Can I freeze these dessert cups?

Yes. Freeze for up to 1 month and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Q5. How do I prevent a lumpy filling?

Use softened cream cheese and beat it until smooth before adding the other ingredients.

Q6. Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes. You can use store-bought whipped topping instead.

Q7. Is this dessert very sweet?

It has a rich sweetness from the condensed milk, balanced by the tartness of fresh lime juice.

Q8. Can I use lemons instead of limes?

Absolutely. Lemon juice and zest make an equally delicious no-bake cheesecake dessert.

Q9. Can I make one large dessert instead of cups?

Yes. Assemble it in an 8×8-inch dish and chill before slicing and serving.

Q10. What can I serve with these dessert cups?

They pair well with fresh berries, sliced kiwi, tropical fruit, hot coffee, iced tea, or a chilled fruit punch.