Copycat Crumbl Key Lime Cookies Recipe

The first time I baked with real limes, I had no idea what I was doing. I stood there, staring at the tiny green citrus like, how much juice can really come out of this thing? Spoiler alert: a lot—and it makes ALL the difference in these key lime cookies.

My three kids are obsessed with anything that tastes like a Crumbl cookie, so this one was an instant hit. The soft, buttery cookie rolled in graham cracker crumbs gives all the classic key lime pie vibes, while the creamy, tangy filling brings that perfect sweet and citrusy punch.

Whether you need a fun, easy dessert for a cookout, dinner party, or just because you deserve something sweet, these cookies do not disappoint.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough:
Unsalted butter – because butter makes everything better
Granulated sugar & brown sugar – for the perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness
Egg – holds everything together and makes the cookies rich
Vanilla extract – adds a warm, cozy depth to the flavor
All-purpose flour – the foundation for the perfect soft cookie
Cornstarch – keeps the cookies light and tender
Baking powder & baking soda – for just the right amount of lift
Kosher salt – enhances all the flavors
Graham crackers – crushed and ready to roll for that classic key lime pie crust feel

For the Key Lime Filling:
Cream cheese – creamy, tangy, and the perfect base for the filling
Sweetened condensed milk – makes the filling smooth and sweet
Lime juice – fresh-squeezed is a must for that bold citrus flavor
Powdered sugar – adds the perfect touch of sweetness
Lime zest – optional, but takes the lime flavor to the next level

How to Make It

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until completely combined.

Sift in flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and cornstarch, then mix until the dough just comes together.

Use a large (3 tbsp) cookie scoop to form dough balls, then roll each one in the crushed graham crackers until fully coated.

Place the cookies on the baking sheet and use a tablespoon measuring spoon to press a slight dent into the center.

Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and press down again in the center—this time using a ¼ cup measuring cup for a deeper indent.

Return the cookies to the oven for 3 more minutes, then remove and let them cool completely.

While the cookies cool, make the filling.

Beat the cream cheese until smooth (this step is crucial—lumpy filling is a no-go).

Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, followed by powdered sugar (if the filling is too runny, add an extra tablespoon).

Stir in fresh lime juice and zest for that bright, citrusy kick.

Once the cookies are fully cooled, fill each center with a generous spoonful of the key lime filling.

Top with a little extra graham cracker crumble or lime zest, and get ready to fall in love with every bite.

Why These Cookies Are a Game-Changer

Baking with limes for the first time? A revelation. I always loved the idea of key lime pie, but turning it into a soft, buttery, Crumbl-style cookie? Next level. The first time I made these, my kids took one bite and immediately asked when I was making them again (which means they really liked them). And for me? The mix of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy hits every craving.

These cookies are the perfect dessert for a cookout, dinner party, or any occasion where you need something a little fancy but super easy to make. The balance of flavors? Perfect. The texture? Soft, chewy, and creamy all at once. And the best part? You don’t have to be a pro at zesting limes to pull this off (but you will feel like one by the end).

Here are some more amazing Crumbl cookie recipes to try: