Last Updated on July 25, 2025 by recipeinspire
Key Lime Pie Shot: 5 Steps to Your New Favorite Party Starter!
Have you ever found yourself at a party, craving a refreshing drink that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also serves as a conversation starter? If you’re nodding in agreement, you’re in luck! In this post, we’ll explore how to master the Key Lime Pie Shot in just five easy steps. This zesty drink captures the essence of the beloved dessert, ensuring your next gathering is a hit!
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Ingredients List

To create the perfect Key Lime Pie Shot, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 oz. Key lime juice: Freshly squeezed for vibrant flavor.
- 1 oz. coconut cream: Adds a creamy texture reminiscent of traditional Key lime pie.
- 1 oz. vanilla vodka: For a sweet undertone that will elevate your shot.
- Graham cracker crumbs: For rimming your shot glasses—a nod to the pie crust.
- Lime wedges: For garnish, providing a zesty finish.
Substitution Suggestions:
- Instead of coconut cream, you can use whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, try substituting the vodka with a splash of sparkling soda or lemonade.
Timing
Preparing your Key Lime Pie Shot is quick and efficient! Here’s the timing breakdown:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes (20% faster than average shot recipes!)
With this speedy process, you can whip up a delightful batch to impress your guests without breaking a sweat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shot Glasses
Start by rimming your shot glasses with lime juice, then dip them into the graham cracker crumbs. This step not only adds a decorative touch but also gives your shots that beloved Key lime pie crust flavor.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, combine the Key lime juice, coconut cream, and vanilla vodka. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15 seconds. The mix should be cold and frothy, brimming with zesty goodness.
Step 3: Strain and Pour
Using a strainer, pour the mixture into the rimmed shot glasses. Leave some space at the top for garnish!
Step 4: Garnish
Slice your lime wedges and place them on the rim of each shot glass. This not only adds a burst of color but also provides an additional zesty aroma with every sip.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Enjoy your Key Lime Pie Shot with friends! The refreshing flavors are perfect for warm weather and holiday gatherings alike.
Nutritional Information
Opting for a Key Lime Pie Shot doesn’t mean sacrificing nutrition. Each shot contains approximately:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 6g (primarily from coconut cream)
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 1g
While indulgence is part of the fun, remember to consume responsibly!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want a slightly lighter version of the Key Lime Pie Shot? Consider these alternatives:
- Use light coconut milk instead of coconut cream.
- Swap vanilla vodka for a mix of club soda and pure vanilla extract to cut down on calories.
- Replace regular lime juice with lime with stevia for added sweetness without the sugar spike.
Serving Suggestions
The fun doesn’t stop at just serving the shots! Here are some creative presentation ideas:
- Create a Shot Board: Place several shot glasses of different colors and flavors on a wooden board for a stunning visual appeal.
- Pair It with Finger Foods: Serve alongside shrimp cocktails or mini tacos for a tropical theme.
- Host a Tasting Party: Have guests create their versions of the Key Lime Pie Shot using different fruits or flavors, engaging everyone in a fun mixology activity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overusing Coconut Cream: Too much can overpower the lime flavor. Use just the right amount for balance.
- Not Chilling the Ingredients: Warm ingredients can lead to a less refreshing drink. Always start with chilled liquids!
- Skipping the Rim: Neglecting to rim the glasses misses out on crucial flavor and texture elements.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
While these shots are best enjoyed fresh, consider the following for storing:
- Unmixed Ingredients: If you’ve prepared your ingredients but haven’t mixed them yet, store them in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prepared Shots: It’s best to consume them within 24 hours. If you have leftovers, seal them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Key Lime Pie Shot: 5 Steps to Your New Favorite Party Starter!
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 shot 1x
Description
This Key Lime Pie Shot is a smooth, tangy dessert shooter that captures the classic flavors of the pie — zesty lime, creamy vanilla, and a hint of graham cracker sweetness. It’s the perfect finish to any meal or a standout party treat!
Ingredients
- ¾ oz vanilla vodka
- ¾ oz key lime juice (or fresh lime juice)
- ¾ oz Irish cream liqueur (or RumChata)
- ½ oz simple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- Ice
- Optional: crushed graham crackers, whipped cream, lime wedge for garnish
Instructions
- Rim (Optional): Dip the shot glass in lime juice, then into crushed graham crackers for a pie-crust-style rim.
- Shake: Add vanilla vodka, key lime juice, Irish cream, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well for 10–15 seconds.
- Strain: Strain into the prepared shot glass.
- Garnish (Optional): Top with whipped cream and a lime wedge if desired.
- Serve: Enjoy this dessert in a sip — creamy, zesty, and satisfying!
Notes
For a more authentic pie flavor, use real key lime juice. You can substitute RumChata or even coconut cream liqueur for a tropical twist. To batch, mix ingredients and shake over ice per serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert Shot
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 shot
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 3mg
Keywords: key lime pie shot, dessert cocktail, creamy lime shooter, vanilla vodka shot, pie-inspired drink
Conclusion
The Key Lime Pie Shot is a delightful addition to your mixology repertoire, combining simplicity and flavor. Follow these five easy steps, and you’ll be ready to dazzle your guests with an unforgettable treat! So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you!
FAQs
Q: Can I make these shots in advance?
A: While it’s best to serve them fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and mix them just before serving.
Q: Can I use a different spirit?
A: Absolutely! If vodka isn’t your preference, consider using rum for a tropical twist.
Q: Are these shots kid-friendly?
A: You can create a non-alcoholic version by skipping the vodka and adding more sparkling soda for a fizzy treat.
Now that you know how to master the Key Lime Pie Shot, it’s time to get mixing and impress your friends! Enjoy and share your experiences in the comments!
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