Indulging in a slice of Key Lime Pie Bars is like taking a mini-vacation to the tropics. Imagine the tangy-sweet flavor dancing on your tongue while the creamy filling melts like sunshine against your taste buds. Lemon blueberry cupcakes These bars are an ode to summer, bringing all the zesty goodness of traditional key lime pie but in a conveniently portable form that begs to be shared—or devoured solo in your kitchen while wearing pajamas. Easter cake for celebrations Lemon herb roasted chicken Lemon cake with curd frosting.
As you prepare to embark on this culinary adventure, picture yourself lounging by the pool, with a refreshing drink in hand, and one of these luscious bars waiting to be enjoyed. This recipe captures that blissful moment and transforms it into something you can recreate at home, making it perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or just those days when life demands a little sweetness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Key Lime Pie Bars are simple to whip up and require no fancy baking skills
- The flavor is a perfect balance of tart and sweet, making them irresistible
- Their stunning green color adds visual appeal that will impress any guest
- Versatile enough for any occasion, from picnics to potlucks, they are sure to be a hit
I still remember the first time I made these bars; my friends’ faces lit up with joy as they tasted the zesty filling.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed crumbs for a smooth crust; aim for about 1 ½ cups.
- Sugar: A bit of granulated sugar sweetens both the crust and filling; it’s essential for balancing flavors.
- Butter: Melted butter binds the crust together beautifully; unsalted is preferable for better control over saltiness.
- Eggs: Two large eggs give structure to the filling and help it set perfectly without being rubbery.
- Fresh Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed juice offers vibrant flavor; avoid bottled juice if possible for best taste.
- Zest of Key Limes: Zest adds extra fragrance and depth; be sure to wash limes before zesting.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This creamy ingredient makes the filling rich and smooth—don’t skimp on quality!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Create the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until moist. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared dish.
Bake That Crust!: Place your crust in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen—enjoy it!
Mix Up That Filling : In another bowl, whisk together eggs until frothy. Add sweetened condensed milk, fresh lime juice, and zest; blend until smooth like your favorite tropical breeze.
Pour It On!: Carefully pour the lime mixture over your baked crust. Spread it evenly using a spatula for flawless results.
Bake Again!: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center. Let cool on a wire rack before chilling in the fridge.
Slice and Serve!: Once chilled completely (at least two hours), lift out using parchment paper and cut into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if you’re feeling fancy!
Now you have delightful Key Lime Pie Bars ready to impress! Enjoy them at parties or keep them all to yourself—no judgment here! For more inspiration, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
You Must Know
- Key Lime Pie Bars are a refreshing twist on the classic dessert, capturing zingy lime flavors in a convenient bar format
- The creamy filling paired with a buttery crust makes it hard to resist
- Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat any day!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the crust while it heats. Bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling, ensuring a perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular graham crackers for gluten-free options or add shredded coconut for an extra flavor kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store Key Lime Pie Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. They don’t require reheating; simply enjoy them chilled.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- A key tip is to use fresh limes for the best flavor; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it
- Ensure your crust cools completely before adding the filling to prevent sogginess
- Lastly, always zest your limes before juicing them—this adds incredible fragrance!
Creating these bars reminds me of that summer barbecue when everyone was raving about how tangy and creamy they were. It’s those moments that make baking worthwhile!
FAQ
What can I substitute for graham crackers?
You can use crushed cookies or even digestive biscuits as a graham cracker alternative.
How do I know when the filling is set?
The filling should be slightly jiggly but firm around the edges; it will continue to set as it cools.
Can I freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?
Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months; thaw before serving.
Key Lime Pie Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the refreshing taste of Key Lime Pie Bars, a delightful twist on the classic dessert that captures the essence of summer. These bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, zesty lime filling that will transport your taste buds to tropical paradise. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup fresh Key lime juice
- 2 tsp Key lime zest
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the dish.
- Bake crust for 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Whisk eggs in another bowl until frothy. Add sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and zest; blend until smooth.
- Pour the lime mixture over the baked crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until slightly jiggly in the center. Cool on a wire rack, then chill in the fridge for at least two hours.
- Lift out using parchment paper and cut into squares. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (45g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Use fresh limes for optimal flavor; bottled juice lacks vibrancy. For gluten-free options, substitute graham crackers with gluten-free crumbs. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
