Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

Name: Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Key Lime Pie Filling; 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk; 3 large egg yolks; 1/2 cup key lime juice; Zest of 2 key limes; Pinch fine sea salt; 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup crushed graham cracker crumbs; For the Tangzhong; 3/4 cup water; 1/4 cup bread flour; For the Cinnamon Roll Dough; 3 2/3 cups bread flour; 1/3 cup granulated sugar, packed; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/3 cup heavy cream, room temperature; 1/3 cup whole milk, room temperature; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; Tangzhong from above; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature; 9-10 sheets of graham crackers; For the Key Lime Cream Cheese Frosting; 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; Remaining key lime filling from above

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: January 29, 2026

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Introduction to Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! If you’re anything like me, life can sometimes feel like a whirlwind. With busy schedules and impatient appetites, finding the perfect dessert can be a real challenge. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my delicious Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust! These delightful rolls combine the tangy goodness of classic key lime pie with the warm, comforting texture of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. Trust me, this recipe is not just a treat; it’s a celebration! Perfect for impressing loved ones or simply indulging yourself after a long day.

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

You’ll adore these Key Lime Pie Rolls because they’re a perfect blend of flavors and textures. They’re quick to whip up, making them a fantastic choice for busy moms or professionals. The zesty key lime filling delivers a burst of sunshine, while the rich graham cracker crust adds a satisfying crunch. Each bite feels indulgent yet fresh, turning any moment into a special occasion. Trust me; they’re a delightful twist on a classic favorite!

Ingredients for Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

Let’s dive into the vibrant ingredients that make these Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust a showstopper! Each element plays a crucial role, contributing to the delightful flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance.

Sweetened condensed milk: This creamy sweet base is essential for the key lime filling, adding richness and sweetness.
Egg yolks: They provide a velvety texture and help thicken the filling, ensuring it has a delightful, satisfying mouthfeel.
Key lime juice: The star of the show! This tart juice delivers that iconic zingy flavor, brightening up the whole dish.

Zest of key limes: A sprinkle of zest intensifies the lime flavor, infusing the rolls with a refreshing aroma.
Fine sea salt: A pinch of salt balances sweetness and heightens the overall flavor profile.
Brown sugar: This adds caramel notes and moisture to the filling, making it rich and satisfying.

Unsalted butter: At room temperature, this gives the rolls a soft, tender texture, ensuring they melt in your mouth.
Ground cinnamon: Just a hint of warm cinnamon adds depth to the sugary filling, creating a comforting flavor combination.
Crushed graham cracker crumbs: These crumbs enhance the graham cracker crust’s flavor and provide a wonderful crunch in every bite.

Water: Used in the tangzhong to create a soft and fluffy dough, it’s vital for texture.
Bread flour: With higher protein content, it results in a chewy and robust dough ideal for cinnamon rolls.
Granulated sugar: The classic sweetener that helps the rolls rise and adds flavor.

Instant yeast: This quick-rising agent ensures your rolls rise beautifully, creating that perfect fluffiness.
Heavy cream and whole milk: Together, they create a wonderfully rich dough that stays tender and moist.
Large egg: An essential ingredient for richer dough, giving the rolls that nice golden hue.

Vanilla bean paste: This elevates the flavor with its aromatic hints, making each bite even more indulgent.
Cream cheese: For the frosting, it provides a rich tanginess that pairs perfectly with the sweet key lime filling.
Powdered sugar: This fluffy sweetener creates a smooth, luscious frosting that complements the tanginess of the filling.

For exact measurements and printable instructions, don’t forget to check out the bottom of the article. You’ll have everything you need at your fingertips!

How to Make Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

Get ready to bring some sunshine into your kitchen with these Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust! Below, I’ll walk you through the steps to create these delightful rolls. Follow along, and don’t forget to have fun with it!

Step 1: Make the Key Lime Pie Filling

To kick off this adventure, let’s whip up the key lime pie filling! Start by grabbing a saucepan. Combine the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, key lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of fine sea salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well incorporated. Cook the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly. Be sure to monitor the temperature as you go. You want it to reach 175°F. This process should take about 9 to 12 minutes, allowing the filling to thicken beautifully. Once it’s done, transfer the filling to a bowl and chill it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it for the rolls. Trust me, this fragrant filling will elevate your dessert to the next level!

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Rolls

Now, onto creating the lovely cinnamon rolls! First, we’ll prepare the tangzhong. In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and bread flour over medium heat. Stir constantly for about 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens into a paste-like consistency. Set it aside to cool.

Next, grab your stand mixer and add the bread flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and fine sea salt. Mix them together before pouring in the cream, whole milk, large egg, vanilla paste, and the cooled tangzhong. Start kneading on low speed for about 2 minutes until it forms a rough dough ball. Now, it’s time to add the room-temperature butter—one tablespoon at a time—while the mixer is still running. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Once done, take it out and shape it into a round ball. Don’t forget to cover it and let it rest for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the dough to rise nicely, making for soft rolls.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is resting, let’s focus on the filling! In a medium bowl, blend together the packed brown sugar, softened unsalted butter, and ground cinnamon. You want this mixture to be as smooth as silk, creating a deliciously sweet and aromatic filling. The texture should be creamy but slightly thick, allowing it to hold its shape when spread over the dough. This filling is the magic that will bring your Key Lime Pie Rolls to life!

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

With everything prepped, roll out the rested dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle, about 15 by 21 inches. Take your filling and spread it evenly across the dough, making sure to cover it generously. Then, add your chilled key lime filling on top, sprinkling graham cracker crumbs for added texture and flavor.

Now, the fun part! Tightly roll the dough from one end to the other, forming a beautiful log. Use a sharp knife to cut the log into twelve 1 3/4 inch strips. Place these pinwheels into a greased metal 9×13 baking pan lined with graham cracker sheets. Make sure they’re snug but not cramped. Neatness is key here! Cover the pan with a clean towel and let it rise for 1 to 2 hours until the rolls double in size. The anticipation builds, doesn’t it?

Step 5: Rise and Bake

Once your rolls have risen nicely, it’s baking time! Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C). This gentle heat will ensure even baking. Bake your rolls for 30 to 40 minutes, until they reach an internal temperature of 185°F. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the most heavenly aroma!

Keep an eye on them toward the end of baking to prevent over-browning. When they’re done, allow them to cool slightly in the pan. This cooling step is essential for locking in moisture and allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

Finally, let’s finish these rolls off with a zesty key lime cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, blend the room temperature cream cheese and powdered sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. The frosting should have a lovely velvety texture. Now, gently fold in the remaining key lime filling to add that delightful tang. Spoon this luscious frosting generously over the warm rolls for added flavor. The result? A dessert that’s not just beautiful, but utterly delicious!

Tips for Success

Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing outcomes.
Prepare your filling ahead of time to save precious minutes when baking.

Ensure your dough is adequately kneaded for optimal rise and texture.
Keep the rolls covered while rising to avoid drying out.
Don’t rush baking; perfectly baked rolls are worth the wait!

Equipment Needed

Stand mixer: A fantastic tool for mixing and kneading. You can also use a mixing bowl and a wooden spoon if necessary.
Whisk: Essential for blending ingredients; a fork can work in a pinch.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy; you could also use a kitchen scale.

Baking pan: A 9×13 metal pan is perfect; glass or ceramic pans will work too.
Parchment paper: This helps with easy roll removal; foil can be a substitute.

Variations of Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

Coconut Cream Variation: Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist. It pairs beautifully with the tangy key lime!

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute bread flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure to use gluten-free graham crackers too.
Vegan Adaptation: Replace egg yolks with flaxseed meal and use coconut cream instead of dairy. Go for a plant-based butter for the dough.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished rolls for an indulgent treat that complements the key lime filling.

Mixed Berry Filling: Incorporate fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries into the key lime filling for a fruity explosion.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or blueberries to enhance the fruity flavors.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a tropical vibe.

Iced Tea: Pair with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade for a perfect summer treat.
Presentation Tip: Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with a lime wedge for an elegant touch.

FAQs about Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust

Can I make Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and sprawl them in the baking pan the night before. Just cover them and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them rise at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

What can I use if I don’t have key limes?
If key limes are hard to find, don’t worry! Regular limes work just as well. The flavor may differ slightly, but they’ll still deliver that refreshing zing that makes key lime desserts so delightful!

How should I store the rolls after baking?
To keep them fresh, store your Key Lime Pie Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to a month!

Can I add more filling to my rolls?
Definitely! If you love a gooey filling, feel free to increase the amounts of key lime filling or cinnamon sugar mixture. Just ensure your dough can wrap around the filling comfortably without getting too messy!

Is there a way to modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Yes! For gluten-free options, substitute bread flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also use non-dairy milk and butter for a vegan version, and flaxseeds can replace the eggs for a plant-based approach. Get creative!

Final Thoughts

Baking these Key Lime Pie Rolls with Graham Cracker Crust is truly a joyful experience! The delightful melding of zesty flavors and comforting textures brings back fond memories of sunny days and family gatherings. Each roll is an invitation to savor life’s little pleasures and share them with loved ones. They’re not just a dessert; they’re a sweet escape from the chaos of our busy lives. So grab your apron, gather your family, and let these rolls be a part of your next memorable moment. Trust me, every bite is worth celebrating!