Description
These Key Lime Pie Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a tangy, creamy key lime filling for a refreshing dessert perfect for summer or any citrus lover. Topped optionally with whipped cream and extra lime zest, these bars are easy to prepare and chill for a delightful treat with a smooth, balanced sweet-tart flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
Topping (Optional)
- Whipped cream for topping
- Extra lime zest for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes to set. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and key lime zest until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This creates the tangy, creamy filling that defines the bars.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. This ensures a creamy texture once chilled.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled and firm enough to slice cleanly.
- Serve: Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 9 squares. Optionally, top each bar with whipped cream and sprinkle extra lime zest for a fresh garnish before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger lime flavor, consider increasing the lime zest to 1 and 1/2 tablespoons.
- If fresh key limes are unavailable, bottled key lime juice or regular lime juice can be used, though the flavor will be slightly different.
- Chill bars thoroughly before slicing to ensure clean, neat cuts.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and texture.
