If you’re looking for a dessert that’s creamy, tangy, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make, this No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Fluff is the perfect choice. With the bright citrus flavor of key lime, the smooth richness of cream cheese, and the airy texture of whipped topping, this dessert feels like a cross between a cheesecake and a fluffy mousse.
The best part? No oven required. This dessert comes together in just minutes and chills in the refrigerator until perfectly creamy and scoopable.
Whether you’re hosting a summer party, preparing a quick potluck dish, or craving something sweet and refreshing after dinner, Key Lime Cheesecake Fluff is a guaranteed crowd favorite.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best no-bake key lime cheesecake fluff, plus tips, variations, storage advice, and serving ideas.
Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Cheesecake Fluff
This dessert is loved for many reasons.
No baking required
Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Light and fluffy texture
The whipped topping makes the dessert airy and smooth.
Bright citrus flavor
Key lime adds a refreshing tang that balances the sweetness.
Quick and easy recipe
The entire dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare.
Perfect for parties
Serve it in a bowl, dessert cups, or as a dip for cookies and fruit.
What Is Cheesecake Fluff?
Cheesecake fluff is a no-bake dessert made by combining cream cheese, whipped topping, and sweet ingredients to create a light, mousse-like texture.
Unlike traditional cheesecake, this version:
• Requires no baking
• Uses whipped topping for lightness
• Sets in the refrigerator instead of the oven
Adding key lime juice gives the dessert a tropical citrus twist that makes it especially popular in warm-weather months.
Ingredients for No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Fluff
This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together quickly.
Main ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅓ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
1 tablespoon lime zest
8 oz whipped topping (such as whipped cream or frozen whipped topping), thawed
Optional mix-ins
½ cup crushed graham crackers
½ cup mini marshmallows
½ cup white chocolate chips
Optional garnish
Extra lime zest
Lime slices
Crushed graham crackers
Whipped cream
How to Make No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Fluff
This recipe comes together in just a few easy steps.
Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
This step is important to prevent lumps.
Step 2: Add Sugar and Flavor
Add:
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Key lime juice
- Lime zest
Beat until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy.
Step 3: Fold in the Whipped Topping
Gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula.
Mix until fully combined and light in texture.
Step 4: Add Optional Mix-Ins
If desired, fold in:
- Crushed graham crackers
- Mini marshmallows
- White chocolate chips
These add texture and extra sweetness.
Step 5: Chill the Dessert
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Chilling allows the flavors to blend and the dessert to thicken.
Step 6: Serve
Spoon into dessert cups or serve in a large bowl.
Top with lime zest, whipped cream, or graham cracker crumbs.
Tips for the Best Key Lime Cheesecake Fluff
Use softened cream cheese
This ensures a smooth texture without lumps.
Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor
Key limes are ideal, but regular limes also work well.
Chill before serving
This improves both flavor and texture.
Don’t overmix after adding whipped topping
Fold gently to keep the dessert fluffy.
Delicious Variations
This recipe can be easily customized.
Key Lime Pie Fluff
Add 1 cup crushed graham crackers and extra lime zest for a flavor similar to key lime pie.
Tropical Key Lime Fluff
Add ½ cup crushed pineapple and ½ cup shredded coconut.
Strawberry Key Lime Cheesecake Fluff
Fold in fresh chopped strawberries for a fruity twist.
Chocolate Lime Fluff
Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the citrus.
What to Serve with Key Lime Cheesecake Fluff
This dessert works well in many ways.
Serve it as:
• A fluffy dessert salad
• A dip for cookies
• A filling for graham cracker crusts
• A topping for pancakes or waffles
Great dipping options include:
• Graham crackers
• Vanilla wafers
• Shortbread cookies
• Fresh fruit
• Pretzels
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Stir gently before serving if the mixture settles.
Freezer
This dessert can be frozen for up to 1 month.
When frozen, it becomes similar to a creamy frozen mousse.
Make-Ahead Tips
Key Lime Cheesecake Fluff is perfect for preparing ahead of time.
Make it the night before serving and store it in the refrigerator. The flavor becomes even better as it chills.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
Calories: 240
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 15g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 18g
Values may vary depending on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime?
Yes. Regular lime juice works perfectly and still gives great flavor.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely. Fresh whipped cream makes the dessert even richer.
Can I make this dessert sugar-free?
Yes. Use sugar-free whipped topping and powdered sugar substitutes.
Why is my fluff too soft?
It may need more chilling time. Refrigerate for an additional 30–60 minutes.
Why This Recipe Works
The balance of cream cheese and whipped topping creates the ideal fluffy texture, while key lime juice adds natural acidity that balances the sweetness.
This combination produces a dessert that is:
• Creamy
• Light
• Refreshing
• Perfectly sweet
Final Thoughts
No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Fluff is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves creamy treats with bright citrus flavor. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and guaranteed to be a hit at gatherings.
Whether you serve it as a fluffy dessert bowl, a dip for cookies, or layered in parfait cups, this refreshing treat delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Print
No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Fluff (Creamy, Light & Refreshing Dessert)
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh Key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- Zest of 2 limes
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
- Optional: graham cracker crumbs or lime zest for garnish
Instructions
- Make base: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy (~2 min).
- Add flavor: Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest until fully combined and slightly thickened.
- Fold in fluff: Gently fold in whipped topping until no streaks remain.
- Chill: Spoon into serving dishes (glasses, bowls, or a trifle dish). Cover and refrigerate at least 2–3 hours, or until set.
- Serve cold, garnished with graham cracker crumbs, extra lime zest, or thin lime slices.
💡 Pro Tips:
– Use real Key limes if available—they’re more floral and tart than Persian limes.
– For extra texture, layer with crushed graham crackers between spoonfuls.
– Make it boozy: Add 1–2 tbsp coconut rum or tequila for an adult twist!
Prep Time & Nutrition (per serving, serves 8):
Servings: 8 | Calories: 220 | Net Carbs: 24g | Fats: 13g | Protein: 5g