introduction
This recipe shows how to make simple, tangy Key Lime Pie Bars with a crunchy crust and a creamy lime filling. If you like lime desserts, try this easy key lime cake for another lime treat.
why make this recipe
Make these bars when you want a quick, bright dessert. They use few ingredients, bake fast, and chill into neat bars you can cut and share. Kids and guests like them because they are sweet, tart, and easy to eat.
how to make Key Lime Pie Bars
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the crust: put graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press the mix into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Make the filling: in another bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice, egg yolks, 1 tablespoon key lime zest, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the crust and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Let the pan cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours so the bars firm up.
- Cut into squares and top each bar with whipped cream before serving.
Ingredients :
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream for topping
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter to form the crust. Press it into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, lime zest, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the crust.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until set.
- Allow cooling, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Cut into bars and serve with whipped cream on top.
how to serve Key Lime Pie Bars
Cut bars into squares and place on a plate. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a small lime slice or a pinch of zest on top. Serve cold for the best texture and bright flavor.
how to store Key Lime Pie Bars
Keep bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can freeze them for up to 1 month; wrap each bar in plastic wrap and put them in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
tips to make Key Lime Pie Bars
- Use fresh key lime juice for the best bright taste.
- Press the crust firmly so it holds together after baking.
- Do not overbake the filling; it should be just set. It will firm up more in the fridge.
- Chill at least 2 hours so the bars slice cleanly.
- Use a hot, dry knife for cleaner cuts; wipe the knife between slices.
variation (if any)
- Add a thin layer of whipped cream cheese between crust and filling for a richer bar.
- Use regular lime if you cannot find key limes, but adjust zest for flavor.
- For a gluten-free crust, use gluten-free graham crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bottled lime juice?
A: Fresh key lime juice gives the best flavor, but bottled lime juice will work in a pinch.
Q: Can I bake these in a different pan size?
A: Yes. A 9×9 pan is best for the given time. If you use a larger pan, the bars will be thinner and need less bake time.
Q: Can I make these ahead for a party?
A: Yes. Make them a day ahead and keep them chilled. Add whipped cream just before serving.
Q: What if my filling cracks while baking?
A: Small cracks are fine. They will be hidden by whipped cream. Avoid overbaking to reduce cracks.
Q: How many bars does this recipe make?
A: It makes about 9–16 bars depending on the size you cut.
Key Lime Pie Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 135 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Simple and tangy Key Lime Pie Bars with a crunchy crust and a creamy lime filling, perfect for a quick dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter to form the crust. Press it into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, lime zest, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the crust.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow cooling, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Cut into squares and serve with whipped cream on top.
Notes
Use fresh key lime juice for the best taste. Press the crust firmly to hold together after baking. Chill for at least 2 hours to slice cleanly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg