These Key Lime Pie Bars are a delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for anyone who loves the combination of a crunchy graham cracker crust with a smooth, creamy lime filling. They’re easy to make and come together in a snap, making them a fantastic choice for any occasion, from family gatherings to summer BBQs.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
½ cup fresh key lime juice
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon lime zest
¼ teaspoon salt
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan to form a crust.
Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh key lime juice, eggs, lime zest, and salt until smooth.
Pour the key lime mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate them for at least 2 hours before serving.
Once chilled, cut the bars into squares and serve them with extra lime zest or whipped cream if desired.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 12 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (including chill time)
Storage/Reheating
I recommend storing these Key Lime Pie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. The chilling process actually enhances the flavor, so I find that they taste even better the next day! I don’t recommend reheating them, as the texture of the filling is best enjoyed cold.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?
I always prefer fresh key lime juice for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice will work as well if fresh isn’t available.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! I often make these bars a day in advance and let them chill overnight. It gives the flavors time to meld together, making them even more delicious.
Can I substitute the graham cracker crust for another type of crust?
While graham cracker crust is traditional for Key Lime Pie Bars, you could experiment with a shortbread or a vanilla wafer crust if you prefer a different flavor.
Can I freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and they’ll keep in the freezer for up to a month. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving.
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Key limes have a distinct tartness and fragrance, but if you can't find them, regular limes will work as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the zest and juice to your taste preference.
Conclusion
These Key Lime Pie Bars are a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, with just the right amount of zing from the lime. Whether you’re preparing for a special event or just craving a fresh, tangy treat, these bars are a must-try. They come together easily, and I’m sure they’ll be a hit at any gathering!
Recipe:
Key Lime Pie Bars
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Key Lime Pie Bars are a delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors, with a crunchy graham cracker crust and a smooth, creamy lime filling. They're easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
½ cup fresh key lime juice
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon lime zest
¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan to form a crust.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, eggs, lime zest, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the key lime mixture over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Once chilled, cut the bars into squares and serve with extra lime zest or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
The bars taste even better the next day after chilling.
Can be frozen for up to a month. Let thaw in the fridge before serving.
For a different crust flavor, you can substitute graham cracker crust with shortbread or vanilla wafer crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
