There’s just something magical about a splash of Key Lime Pie Creamer in your morning coffee.
It’s sweet, tangy, creamy, and just the right amount of dessert-in-a-mug without going overboard.
I started making this because I got tired of the store-bought stuff with weird ingredients. This one tastes like summer mornings and pie for breakfast—because why not?
🍋 What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup whole milk (or half and half)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons fresh key lime juice
- 1 teaspoon key lime zest
- 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon graham cracker crumbs (very finely ground)
❤️ Why I Love This Recipe:
This creamer is like a warm hug from Florida. It’s sunny, bright, and just indulgent enough to make you feel fancy even on a Monday morning.
- Tastes just like key lime pie—but in your coffee.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have.
- No weird additives, gums, or artificial flavors.
- Keeps well in the fridge for over a week.
- Works in hot or iced coffee (or even drizzled on pancakes!).
🍶 Servings & Time
- Servings: Makes about 16 (2-tablespoon) servings
- Total Time: 10 minutes
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The acidity in the lime juice cuts through the richness of the dairy, giving it that bright punch without curdling (thanks to balancing it with sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream). The fat content keeps the texture creamy, and a bit of graham cracker adds body and depth—like the crust of the pie, but drinkable!
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Using regular limes – They’re not as tangy-sweet as key limes. If that’s all you have, reduce the juice a bit and add more zest.
- Adding lime juice to hot milk – It’ll curdle. Always mix when cold.
- Not straining zest or crumbs if too coarse – You want smooth creamer, not chunky.
🍽️ What to Serve With It
- Your favorite hot or iced coffee
- Cold brew
- Vanilla iced lattes
- Over pancakes or waffles
- In milkshakes!
👩🍳 Tools Needed
- Medium mixing bowl
- Small whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Citrus zester
- Airtight jar or bottle for storing
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- No key limes? Use regular lime juice + more zest.
- Dairy-free? Use sweetened condensed coconut milk + almond milk or oat milk.
- No heavy cream? Just use more whole milk or half and half.
- Extra indulgent? Add a splash of coconut cream or a pinch of cinnamon.
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips
Make this up to 10 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a shake before each use.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
In a medium bowl, pour in 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk.
Step 2: Add Whole Milk & Heavy Cream
Add 1 cup whole milk and 2 tablespoons heavy cream to the bowl.
Step 3: Add Key Lime Juice
Pour in 3 tablespoons fresh key lime juice, slowly.
Step 4: Add Key Lime Zest
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of freshly grated key lime zest.
Step 5: Add Vanilla Extract
Stir in 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract.
Step 6: Add Graham Cracker Crumbs
Add 1 tablespoon finely crushed graham cracker crumbs and whisk until smooth.
Step 7: Pour Into Jar & Chill
Carefully pour the creamer into a clean glass jar or bottle. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before using.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
Store in the fridge in an airtight jar for up to 10 days. Shake before each use—natural settling is normal.
Don’t freeze it—dairy and lime don’t thaw well together.
💬 FAQ
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh is best, but bottled key lime juice works in a pinch. Just use a trusted brand and taste as you go.
Can I skip the graham cracker crumbs?
Yep! They add a little extra “pie” flavor, but it’ll still be delicious without them.
Can I make it sugar-free?
Try using a sugar-free sweetened condensed milk alternative, though the flavor might change a bit.
🎉 Wrap-Up
If you’re craving something a little sweet and a little tangy to make your mornings brighter, this Key Lime Pie Creamer is it. It’s easy, fast, and honestly better than anything from the store. Give it a try and let me know in the comments how it went—or if you have questions, I’ve got you!
☕💚
