Key Lime Pie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Lime Pie Bars offer the perfect balance of tangy citrus flavor and creamy texture on a buttery graham cracker crust. These bars capture all the tropical brightness of traditional key lime pie in a more convenient, handheld form. Ideal for summer gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a refreshing dessert with minimal effort.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

graham cracker crumbsunsalted buttermeltsugarkey lime juicekey lime zestsweetened condensed milkegg yolksvanilla extractsalt

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.

Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish and bake for 10 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.

In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, key lime juice, key lime zest, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.

Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled.

Once chilled, slice into bars and garnish with extra lime zest or whipped cream if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 16 bars.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 25-28 minutesChilling time: 2 hoursTotal time: about 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

Use crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers for a different crust flavor.

Add a layer of whipped cream or meringue on top before chilling.

Try using bottled key lime juice if fresh key limes are not available.

Include coconut flakes in the crust for a tropical twist.

storage/reheating

Store Key Lime Pie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.Do not reheat, as these bars are best served chilled.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, regular limes can be substituted, but the flavor will be slightly less tangy and floral.

Why is my filling not setting?

Make sure to bake the bars until the center is just set, and chill thoroughly before cutting.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely—these bars are ideal for making a day ahead as they require chilling.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts.

Can I use a different pan size?

You can use a 9×9-inch pan for thinner bars; adjust baking time as needed.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Can I use sweetened lime juice?

It’s not recommended, as it may make the filling overly sweet and affect the flavor.

Are these bars very tart?

They have a bright, tangy flavor balanced by the sweet, creamy filling and buttery crust.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan; bake slightly longer.

Do I have to use parchment paper?

Parchment helps with easy removal, but you can grease the pan well as an alternative.

Conclusion

Key Lime Pie Bars are a zesty, creamy treat with a crisp crust that delivers all the charm of the classic pie in a portable form. Refreshing and simple to make, they’re sure to brighten any dessert table and leave everyone asking for seconds.

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