Key Lime Parfaits

Directions

1. 1
   Prepare Curd: Whisk together first 5 ingredients in a medium saucepan. Cook mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, 10 to 12 minutes or until thickened and bubbles form around edges.
2. 2
   Remove from heat, and add butter, 1 slice at a time, whisking until blended after each addition. Transfer mixture to a medium-size glass bowl, and place plastic wrap directly on warm curd. Chill 4 to 6 hours.
3. 3
   Prepare Meringue: Pour water to a depth of 2 inches into a 2-qt. saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium, and let simmer. Beat egg whites and next 2 ingredients in a 2 1/2-qt. bowl at medium speed with an electric mixer until blended. Place bowl over simmering water, and beat at medium speed 9 minutes or until soft peaks form. Remove from heat. Beat at high speed 2 minutes or until stiff peaks form.
4. 4
   Divide graham cracker crumbs among 6 bowls or jars; top with lime curd.
5. 5
   Spoon meringue into a large zip-top plastic freezer bag. (Do not seal.) Snip 1 corner of bag to make a small hole. Pipe meringue over curd in bowl. If desired, brown meringue using a kitchen torch, holding torch 2 inches from meringue and moving torch back and forth.
6. 6
   Note: We recommend using a pro-style kitchen torch ($20 at amazon.com or housewares retailers).