Easy Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe

If you're a fan of citrusy desserts that strike the perfect balance between tart and sweet, then you're in for a treat with this easy Key Lime Pie Bars recipe. These creamy, zesty bars are the ideal dessert for any occasion, whether you're serving them at a summer picnic or indulging in a refreshing treat after dinner. Packed with that unmistakable tang of key limes and resting on a buttery graham cracker crust, these bars are simple to make but deliver an extraordinary flavor. Follow along to learn the step-by-step process, and get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing dessert.

Read on to discover how to make these delicious Key Lime Pie Bars at home, and you’ll be craving them in no time!

What Are Key Lime Pie Bars?

Key Lime Pie Bars are a bite-sized version of the classic Key Lime Pie, a dessert that's beloved for its smooth and tangy lime filling combined with a crunchy, buttery crust. Key lime pie originated in the Florida Keys, where key limes were abundant. These smaller, aromatic limes have a unique tartness, making them perfect for desserts. The bars are typically made with a simple graham cracker crust and a luscious filling composed of key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks.

This recipe takes all the elements of a traditional pie but packages it into easy-to-eat bars that are perfect for parties, potlucks, or whenever you want a quick citrusy dessert.

Ingredients List for Key Lime Pie Bars

Before you begin making these easy Key Lime Pie Bars, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full graham crackers)
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Key Lime Filling:

• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed is best, but bottled works too)
• 1 tablespoon lime zest (from about 3-4 key limes)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)

Optional Garnish:

• Whipped cream
• Lime slices or zest for decoration

Substitutions and Variations

While this classic recipe is delicious as is, there are a few substitutions and variations you can make to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Crust Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of graham crackers, you can substitute with digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even a shortbread crust. Gluten-free graham crackers can also be used for a gluten-free version.
• Citrus Variations: If you can’t find key limes, you can use regular Persian limes. While the flavor is slightly less tangy, it still provides a deliciously refreshing result.
• Vegan/Dairy-Free Option: For a vegan version, swap the sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk and use a plant-based butter alternative in the crust.
• Toppings: Consider adding meringue on top for a baked twist or garnishing with coconut flakes to give it a tropical feel.

These substitutions and variations allow you to personalize the recipe while keeping the essential elements of the dish intact.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the cooking process. With these easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time.

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9-inch square baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. This makes it easier to lift the bars out of the dish later.

2. Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon (if using), and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form the crust. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to compact it tightly. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

3. Prepare the Key Lime Filling

While the crust is cooling, prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, whisking until smooth and fully combined. Stir in the key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract (if using). Whisk until the mixture is creamy and fully blended.

4. Pour and Bake

Pour the lime filling over the pre-baked crust and spread it out evenly. Bake the bars for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is just set and slightly firm to the touch. It should still have a slight jiggle in the center. Avoid overbaking, as the filling can crack if cooked too long.

5. Cool and Chill

Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, transfer the dish to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until fully set. This will make cutting the bars much easier and will improve their flavor and texture.

6. Slice and Serve

Once the bars are chilled and set, lift them out of the dish using the parchment paper. Slice them into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. For clean slices, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts.

How to Cook Key Lime Pie Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking dish.
• Combine crust ingredients: graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cinnamon, and butter.
• Press crust mixture into the pan and bake for 10 minutes.
• Whisk egg yolks and combine with condensed milk, lime juice, and zest for the filling.
• Pour filling over crust and bake for another 15-18 minutes until set.
• Cool and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
• Slice and serve your delicious Key Lime Pie Bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is fairly simple, there are a few common mistakes that can hinder your results. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Overbaking the filling: Key lime filling should be just set, with a slight jiggle in the middle. Overbaking can cause the bars to crack or become too firm.
• Not using enough lime juice: The lime juice is the star of the show! Don’t skimp on it, as the bars won’t have that signature tangy flavor without enough juice.
• Cutting too soon: Be patient and let the bars chill thoroughly before slicing. This ensures they hold their shape and don’t crumble.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when it comes to making your dessert look as good as it tastes. Here are a few tips to make your Key Lime Pie Bars stand out:

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars:

• Serve chilled: These bars taste best when served cold, so be sure to store them in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
• Add whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on each bar adds a touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of the lime.
• Garnish with lime slices or zest: A sprinkle of lime zest or a thin slice of lime on top of each bar adds a pop of color and makes for a beautiful presentation.

Presentation Ideas for Key Lime Pie Bars:

• Layered dessert tray: Arrange the bars neatly on a tray in layers, with parchment paper separating each layer.
• Individual servings: For a more elegant touch, serve each bar on individual plates with a swirl of whipped cream and a garnish of lime zest.

Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe Tips

• For extra tang, increase the lime zest in the filling for a more intense citrus flavor.
• Use fresh lime juice whenever possible for the best taste. Bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh juice gives a brighter flavor.
• Double the recipe if serving a crowd! These bars are always a hit and disappear quickly at gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?

Yes! After cooling and cutting the bars, place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, you can use regular Persian limes if you can’t find key limes. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How long do Key Lime Pie Bars last?

When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these bars will last for up to 5 days.

Can I make the crust without butter?

Yes, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative to make the crust if you're looking for a dairy-free option.

Conclusion

These easy Key Lime Pie Bars are the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making them a refreshing and irresistible treat. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, tangy filling, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow and yields impressive results every time. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of the tropics with every bite!

Don't wait—give this recipe a try today, and let the zesty flavor of Key Lime Pie Bars brighten your day!

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