Name: Zesty Lime Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485711H59M34S
Total time: PT-485711H59M34S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (for crust); 1/4 cup (50g) sugar (for crust); 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold & cubed (for crust); 1 cup (200g) sugar (for filling); 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for filling); 2 large eggs (for filling); 1/3 cup fresh lime juice (about 3–4 limes) (for filling); Zest of 2 limes (for filling); Optional: a few drops of green food coloring (for filling)

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I love making these Zesty Lime Bars because they strike the perfect balance between tangy citrus and sweet, buttery crust. The bright lime flavor really shines through, making them a refreshing treat any time of year.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour

1/4 cup (50g) sugar

1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold & cubed

For the filling:

1 cup (200g) sugar

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1/3 cup fresh lime juice (about 3–4 limes)

Zest of 2 limes

Optional: a few drops of green food coloring for a pop of color

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8" (20x20 cm) pan with parchment paper.

Make the crust by mixing the flour and sugar, then cutting in the cold cubed butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press this evenly into the prepared pan.

Bake the crust for 15–18 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden.

While the crust is baking, whisk together the sugar, flour, eggs, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. If I want, I add a few drops of green food coloring to brighten the filling.

Pour the filling over the hot crust and return to the oven. Bake for another 18–20 minutes until the filling is set and the center no longer jiggles.

Let the bars cool completely before refrigerating them for 1–2 hours to firm up.

Before serving, I like to dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant finish, but this is optional.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 16 bars when cut into 2-inch squares.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Bake time: 33–38 minutes total (crust + filling)

Chilling time: 1–2 hours

Variations

I sometimes like to add a bit of fresh mint to the filling for a refreshing twist. Another great option is to swap lime juice for lemon juice if I’m in the mood for classic lemon bars with a twist. For a gluten-free version, I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.

Storage/Reheating

I store these lime bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They keep their texture best when chilled and don’t need reheating—just serve them cold or at room temperature. If I want to freshen them up after chilling, I let them sit out for about 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

I always recommend fresh lime juice for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can work in a pinch. Just watch the amount, as it can be more concentrated or less tangy.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! I often make these a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. The flavors actually deepen, and they’re easier to slice once fully chilled.

What’s the best way to cut the bars without them crumbling?

I chill the bars completely and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts. Cutting when cold helps keep the bars neat and intact.

Can I freeze the lime bars?

I’ve frozen them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Is there a way to make the crust more crunchy?

If I want extra crunch, I add a tablespoon of finely chopped nuts or graham cracker crumbs to the crust mixture. It adds great texture without overpowering the lime flavor.

Conclusion

I really enjoy making these zesty lime bars whenever I want a bright, tangy dessert that’s easy to prepare but full of fresh flavor. The combination of the buttery crust with the vibrant lime filling always impresses family and friends. Whether for a casual snack or a special occasion, these bars are a perfect pick-me-up treat that I never tire of.

Recipe:

Zesty Lime Bars

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: About 16 bars (2-inch squares)
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Zesty lime bars with a tangy citrus filling and a buttery, crumbly crust, chilled to perfection for a refreshing treat.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8" (20x20 cm) pan with parchment paper.
Mix flour and sugar for the crust. Cut in cold cubed butter until crumbly. Press evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake crust for 15–18 minutes until lightly golden.
Whisk together sugar, flour, eggs, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. Add green food coloring if desired.
Pour filling over hot crust and bake another 18–20 minutes until set and center no longer jiggles.
Cool bars completely, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours to firm up.
Optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving.