Imagine sinking your spoon into a fluffy layer of Key Lime Mascarpone Cheesecake Trifle, where zesty lime dances with creamy mascarpone. The aroma wafts through the air, leaving you in a state of pure bliss as you anticipate that first taste.

This dessert is not just a treat; it’s an experience that whisks you away to sunny shores and lazy afternoons. Picture sharing this trifle at summer barbecues or family gatherings, where laughter fills the air, and everyone fights for the last bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Key Lime Mascarpone Cheesecake Trifle is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Its refreshing flavor profile combines tangy lime with rich mascarpone for ultimate indulgence.
- Visually stunning layers create an eye-catching centerpiece for your table.
- This dessert is versatile enough to serve in individual cups or a large bowl for sharing.
This delightful recipe has wowed my friends at countless potlucks, often prompting requests for the “secret” behind its deliciousness.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Mascarpone Cheese: Choose high-quality mascarpone for a rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed juice offers the best flavor; bottled versions can’t compete with its brightness.
Heavy Cream: Whipping cream adds lusciousness; opt for heavy cream for the best results.
Granulated Sugar: Use fine sugar to ensure it dissolves easily into the creamy filling.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: A sweet and crunchy base that complements the creamy layers perfectly.
Lime Zest: Fresh zest intensifies lime flavor, giving your trifle that extra zing.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and sweetness to balance the tartness of the key lime.
Fresh Berries (optional): Strawberries or blueberries add a pop of color and freshness to your trifle.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Key Lime Mascarpone Cheesecake Trifle
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients on your countertop. Prepping everything upfront makes assembling the trifle seamless and fun.
Make the Creamy Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, granulated sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy—about 3 minutes.
Create Graham Cracker Layer: In a separate bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined. The mixture should resemble wet sand—perfect for layering.
Assemble Your Trifle: In a clear glass dish or individual cups, start with a layer of graham cracker crumbs followed by a generous scoop of the creamy filling. Repeat until you reach the top.
Add Final Touches: Finish off with fresh berries or additional lime zest on top for color and flair. Chill in the fridge for at least two hours before serving.
Enjoy this delightful Key Lime Mascarpone Cheesecake Trifle that brightens up any gathering!
You Must Know
- The Key Lime Mascarpone Cheesecake Trifle is a delightful blend of tangy and sweet.
- Layering the ingredients creates a stunning visual, making it perfect for any gathering.
- Remember, patience in chilling enhances those flavors, allowing them to mingle beautifully for ultimate satisfaction.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by whipping the mascarpone and cream until fluffy, then mix in key lime juice and zest for flavor. Assemble layers of crushed graham crackers, mascarpone mixture, and whipped cream for a beautiful trifle.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out key lime juice with lemon juice if desired. Adding fresh berries or a sprinkle of coconut can also elevate your trifle while adding unique flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Key Lime Mascarpone Cheesecake Trifle in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Avoid freezing as it may alter texture and taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure your mascarpone cheese is at room temperature for easy blending.
- Use freshly squeezed key lime juice for an authentic flavor that brightens the dessert.
- Be generous with your whipped cream layers; they add a heavenly texture!
There’s nothing quite like the first time I served this trifle at a family BBQ; I still remember my uncle asking for seconds—and thirds!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought whipped cream?
Absolutely! Store-bought whipped cream saves time and still tastes delicious in the trifle.
How long does the trifle last?
The Key Lime Mascarpone Cheesecake Trifle lasts about three days in the fridge if stored properly.
Is there a gluten-free option available?
Yes! Use gluten-free cookies or crumbled gluten-free cake instead of traditional graham crackers.
Key Lime Mascarpone Cheesecake Trifle
Experience the refreshing burst of zesty lime paired with creamy mascarpone cheese in this Key Lime Mascarpone Cheesecake Trifle. This visually stunning dessert features luscious layers of graham cracker crust, fluffy filling, and vibrant lime zest, making it the perfect centerpiece for summer gatherings. Easy to prepare and ideal for sharing, this trifle will surely impress your family and friends.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours chilling
- Total Time: 9 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No cooking required
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- Fresh berries (optional)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on your countertop for easy access.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, sugar, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- In another bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until they resemble wet sand.
- In a clear glass dish or individual cups, layer graham cracker crumbs followed by a scoop of the creamy filling. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Top with fresh berries or additional lime zest for garnish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For a twist, substitute key lime juice with lemon juice. Add shredded coconut for an extra flavor dimension. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.







