These Key Lime Pie Bars are a tasty twist on the classic dessert! With a zesty lime filling on a buttery crust, they’re both sweet and tangy, perfect for any occasion.
I’ve made these bars for friends, and they always ask for seconds! Plus, they are super easy to slice and share. Just remember to keep them chilled for that refreshing bite! 🍰
Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These are essential for that classic flavor and texture. If you don’t have graham crackers, try using digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. They give a slightly different taste but still work well!
Unsalted Butter: For the crust, unsalted butter is best so you can control the salt. However, if you only have salted butter, just omit any added salt in the recipe.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This provides creaminess and sweetness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut cream mixed with a bit of sweetener. It gives a unique flavor twist and works great!
Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed key lime juice is ideal, but if you can’t find key limes, regular limes will do. You’ll lose that unique flavor but still get the tartness you crave.
How Can You Perfectly Bake the Filling?
Baking the filling is vital to achieving that silky-smooth texture. You’ll want to keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking. Here’s how to get it just right:
- After pouring the filling over the crust, bake it until it just sets. It should jiggle slightly in the center but not slosh around.
- Keep your oven at the right temperature; a slight increase can lead to cracking. If it’s overbaked, it can get tough.
Letting it cool to room temperature before chilling in the fridge is key. This helps it firm up nicely once chilled and makes cutting easier!
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 ¾ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 3 large egg yolks
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream (for serving)
- Lime zest (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and bake, plus a chilling time of at least 2 hours. You’ll spend a few minutes readying the crust and filling, bake the bars, and then let them chill beautifully in the fridge. It’s worth the wait for a zesty treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the bars out later. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until blended; it should look like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared dish. Bake it for about 10 minutes, or until it’s just lightly golden. Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Make the Filling:
In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, lime zest, and egg yolks. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth. Pour this filling over your cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Place it back in the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is set and doesn’t jiggle when you move the dish.
3. Chill and Serve:
Once baked, let the key lime pie bars cool to room temperature. Then, place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to firm up nicely. When you’re ready to serve, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares. Top each square with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest for garnish. Enjoy your delicious, zesty treat!
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Absolutely! While key limes have a distinct tartness, you can use regular limes as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different. Use the same amount of juice, and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
Can I Make the Crust in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the crust up to 2 days ahead. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover and store it in the fridge. When ready to use, just pour your filling over it and proceed with the recipe!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Bars?
Leftover key lime pie bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. The bars also freeze well; just wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Can I Use a Different Sweetener?
Yes! If you want to substitute granulated sugar in the crust, you can use brown sugar for a richer flavor, or a sugar alternative that measures like sugar for a lower-calorie option. Just ensure whatever sweetener you choose is suitable for baking to maintain texture and taste!
