Key Lime Pie Shot Recipe: A Sweet and Tangy Cocktail Treat
The Key Lime Pie Shot Recipe is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy the essence of the classic dessert in liquid form. This creamy and tangy shot combines key lime juice, vanilla vodka, and a splash of sweetened condensed milk for the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. To make it even more authentic, the rim of the shot glass can be coated with crushed graham crackers, mimicking the pie’s signature crust. Simply shake the ingredients with ice, strain into prepared shot glasses, and garnish with a small lime wedge for a decorative touch. This delightful drink is ideal for summer gatherings, tropical-themed parties, or anytime you want a quick, dessert-inspired cocktail. With its vibrant flavor and playful presentation, this recipe delivers a little slice of paradise in every sip. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress guests with its refreshing twist.
Key Lime Pie Shot Recipe: A Sweet and Tangy Cocktail Treat
Key Lime Pie Shots are the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors that mimic the classic key lime pie dessert. These mini indulgent cocktails are great for parties, celebrations, or anytime you want to surprise your guests with a unique, flavorful treat. Packed with lime, cream, and a graham cracker finish, these dessert-like shots deliver a burst of refreshing tropical vibes in every sip. Whether you’re hosting a summer soiree or looking for a playful after-dinner drink, this recipe is sure to please.
Key Lime Pie Shot Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Measuring jigger
- Small plates (for garnishes)
- Shot glasses (4)
- Citrus juicer (if using fresh limes)
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 ounces (60 ml) vanilla vodka
- 2 ounces (60 ml) coconut rum
- 2 ounces (60 ml) key lime juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
- 2 ounces (60 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tbsp simple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- 4 graham cracker crumbs (for garnish)
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
- Lime wedges or zest (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glasses: Pour the graham cracker crumbs onto a small plate. Wet the rims of the shot glasses with a lime wedge, then dip the rims into the crumbs to coat.
- Mix the Drink: In a cocktail shaker, combine the vanilla vodka, coconut rum, key lime juice, heavy cream (or half-and-half), and simple syrup (if using).
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into the prepared shot glasses.
- Garnish: Top each shot with a small dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest or a small lime wedge.
Notes
Notes
- Simple Syrup: If you prefer a sweeter shot, you can add simple syrup to taste. To make simple syrup, dissolve equal parts of sugar and water by heating the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved. Let it cool before use.
- Variations: Experiment with different flavored vodkas or rums to customize your shots. You can also use crushed graham crackers instead of crumbs for a more textured rim.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Balanced Flavors: A perfect harmony of sweet creaminess and zesty lime.
- Easy to Make: Only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time are needed.
- Party-Perfect: Impress your guests with these unique and colorful dessert-inspired cocktails.
Ingredients
To make 4 Key Lime Pie Shots, you’ll need:
- 1 oz vanilla vodka (or plain vodka for a subtler flavor)
- 1 oz key lime juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- 1 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 oz heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- Crushed graham crackers (for rimming the shot glasses)
- Whipped cream (for garnish, optional)
- Lime wedges or zest (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glasses:
- Rim your shot glasses with crushed graham crackers. To do this, dip the rim of each glass into a shallow plate of lime juice, then press it into the crushed graham crackers. Set aside.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine vanilla vodka, key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. Shake well until all the ingredients are mixed thoroughly and chilled.
- Pour and Serve:
- Strain the mixture evenly into the prepared shot glasses.
- Garnish and Enjoy:
- Top each shot with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of lime zest, or a small lime wedge. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Perfect Key Lime Pie Shot
- Use Fresh Key Lime Juice: The fresh juice makes a huge difference in the flavor, giving it that authentic tangy taste.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter shot, increase the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a splash of coconut rum for a tropical twist or swap vanilla vodka for whipped cream vodka for extra creaminess.
Nutrition Information (Per Shot)
- Calories: 120-150 kcal
- Fat: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 9-12g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Sugar: 8-10g
(Nutrition values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.
