Ultimate Key Lime Pie Bars
With the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors and a super creamy key lime filling, our Key Lime Pie Bars recipe is truly divine! These key lime bars showcase the best of summer and are perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
After visiting Key West on one of our trips to Florida, I have become obsessed with anything flavored with Key limes? I think it reminds me of our own local lime – calamansi, which I love drinking, baking with and yes, dipping with, too. I can’t always have access to fresh calamansi where I am, so getting my hands on some tangy Key limes is the next best thing!
My daughter and I baked these delicious and crave-able key lime bars the other day. We both loved the perfect balance of sweet-tangy flavors they impart with each bite. We shared this with some friends, and they all loved it, too. So, if you love key limes, this is a must-make! If you prefer this yummy key lime dessert in pie form, check out our delicious Classic Key West Key Lime Pie!
Key Lime Pie Bars are the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, offering a refreshing dessert that’s easy to make and share. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or craving a tropical treat, these bars deliver the classic key lime pie experience in a convenient handheld form.
This post will show you how to make the most delicious key lime bars! If you are a fan of tangy desserts, this easy Key lime pie bar recipe will surely please your taste buds!
Ingredients for the Ultimate Key Lime Bars
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: These provide a crunchy, buttery base for the bars, adding texture and a neutral flavor that complements the lime filling. The crumbs are typically made from crushed graham crackers, which are a classic component of key lime pie crusts.
- Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to the crust, balancing the tartness of the lime filling and enhancing the overall flavor of the bars.
- Regular Butter: Melted butter helps bind the graham cracker crumbs together, creating a cohesive crust that holds its shape when baked. It also adds richness and a buttery flavor.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient contributes a creamy texture and intense sweetness to the filling, balancing out the tartness of the lime juice. It’s a key component in traditional key lime pie recipes.
- Egg Yolks: Egg yolks enrich the filling with a custard-like texture and help bind the ingredients together. They also contribute to the creamy consistency and stability of the bars.
- Key Lime Juice: This provides the distinctive tart flavor and aroma of key limes, which is essential for the character of the dessert. Fresh or bottled juice can be used, with fresh offering a more vibrant flavor.
- Lime Zest (optional): Adding lime zest enhances the citrus flavor and aroma of the bars, providing a more complex and refreshing taste experience. It’s optional but recommended for extra depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Ultimate Key Lime Bars
Preheat & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Make the Crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press firmly into the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly.
Prepare the Filling: Whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
Bake: Pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake for 20-25 minutes or until just set with a slight jiggle in the center.
Chill: Cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled with optional whipped cream and lime zest.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Key Limes
Fresh key limes provide a more authentic flavor than bottled juice. If unavailable, regular limes with a splash of lemon juice work as a substitute. - Firmly Pack the Crust
Ensure the graham cracker crust is tightly packed to prevent crumbling when slicing. - Don’t Overbake
The filling should have a slight jiggle when removed from the oven; it will set fully during chilling. - Refrigerate Overnight
For best results, let the bars chill overnight to achieve optimal firmness and flavor. - Add Whipped Cream
A dollop of whipped cream enhances the creamy texture and balances the tartness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Key Lime Pie Bars
What’s the Difference Between Key Limes and Regular Limes?
Key limes are smaller, more aromatic, and have a distinct tart flavor compared to regular limes. They’re often preferred for desserts due to their unique taste.
Can I Use Bottled Key Lime Juice?
Yes! Bottled key lime juice is convenient and works well in this recipe if fresh key limes aren’t available. You can also use regular lime juice mixed with lemon juice for a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Store Key Lime Pie Bars?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can also freeze them for up to three months; thaw them in the fridge before serving.
Can I Double This Recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger pan (e.g., 9×13-inch) and double all ingredients to make more bars for larger gatherings.
How Do I Know When the Filling Is Set?
The filling is set when it jiggles slightly in the center but doesn’t slosh around. It will firm up further during chilling.
Can I Make These Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare them up to three days in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve. Add whipped cream just before serving for freshness.
Key Lime Pie Bars are an irresistible treat that captures the essence of tropical flavors in every bite. Whether you’re making them for yourself or sharing them with loved ones, this dessert is sure to impress. Follow our recipe and tips for foolproof results every time!
Easy Key Lime Pie Bars
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 2 cans (14 oz) each sweetened condensed milk
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 cup key lime juice, fresh or bottled
- 1 teaspoon lime zest optional, for extra flavor
Instructions
Preheat & Prepare Pan:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Make the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, key lime juice, and lime zest (if using) until smooth and fully incorporated.
Bake:
- Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is just set and has a slight jiggle in the center.
Chill:
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) until fully set.
Serve:
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Optionally, top with slightly sweetened whipped cream and additional lime zest before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Last updated on May 17th, 2025 at 10:07 pm
