Key lime pie bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy and tart lime filling. These bars are perfect for any occasion, be it summer gatherings, birthday celebrations, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Their balance of sweetness and tanginess makes them incredibly refreshing and satisfying. Plus, they are simple to make, allowing you to impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up this delicious dessert.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of creamy filling and zesty lime creates a refreshing dessert that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these bars chilled for a summer picnic or warm for a cozy night in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These bars can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for easy serving later.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties and gatherings, these key lime pie bars will satisfy both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or rolling pin
• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Quickly crushes graham crackers to save time.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly.
• Hand mixer: Helps achieve a creamy texture for the filling effortlessly.

Ingredients

Key lime pie bars are a favorite dessert in a bar – a buttery graham cracker crust and a tart and creamy lime filling!!

For the Crust

• 15 sheets graham crackers (or 30 squares)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Pinch salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

For the Filling

• 6 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 4 egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• ½ cup key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. In a food processor or large Ziploc bag with a rolling pin, crush the graham crackers until fine crumbs form.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crumbs, sugar, salt, and melted butter. Mix well.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the lined pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl with either a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined.
3. Incorporate egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Add lime zest, juice, and vanilla extract; mix until everything is well blended.

Step 4: Bake Again

Pour the filling over the hot crust. Return to the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until set; do not let the top brown.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Remove from oven and let cool slightly before chilling in the refrigerator for about 2-4 hours.

Step 6: Cut & Serve

Once chilled, cut into squares and serve! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars

Key lime pie bars are a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance their deliciousness. Here are some serving suggestions to make your key lime pie bars even more enjoyable.

Top with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the tartness of the bars. You can pipe it on top or serve it on the side.

Garnish with Lime Slices

• Fresh lime slices not only look beautiful but also enhance the lime flavor. Place a slice on top of each bar for a pop of color.

Add Fresh Berries

• Raspberries or blueberries complement the tangy flavor of key lime pie bars beautifully. Scatter them around for an appealing plate presentation.

Serve with Coconut Flakes

• Toasted coconut flakes add texture and a hint of tropical flavor. Sprinkle them over the whipped cream or directly on the bars.

Pair with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream beside your key lime pie bars makes for a refreshing combination, perfect for warm days.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• For those who enjoy sweet and tart flavors together, a light drizzle of chocolate sauce can add an indulgent touch to your dessert.

How to Perfect Key Lime Pie Bars

Creating the perfect key lime pie bars requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert is a hit.

• Use Fresh Key Limes: Freshly squeezed key lime juice gives a vibrant flavor that bottled juice can’t match. If you can’t find key limes, regular limes work too.

• Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing helps achieve clean cuts and neat edges. This also enhances their texture.

• Chill Before Serving: Chilling the bars in the refrigerator for several hours allows flavors to meld and improves their overall taste and firmness.

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less tart flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling. Taste as you go!

• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking times; underbaking can lead to a runny filling while overbaking may dry out your bars.

• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within five days.

Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Pie Bars

Key lime pie bars pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their unique flavor profile. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can provide a light contrast to the richness of key lime pie bars.
2. Mango Sorbet: This fruity and icy treat offers a sweet balance that pairs well with the tartness of the bars.
3. Coconut Rice: The mild sweetness and texture of coconut rice can enhance your dessert experience.
4. Grilled Pineapple: Caramelized grilled pineapple brings out tropical flavors that harmonize perfectly with key lime.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: A healthy option, chia pudding adds creaminess without being overly sweet.
6. Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages like lemonade or iced tea provide thirst-quenching contrasts alongside your dessert.
7. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can balance sweetness while adding richness that complements key lime pie bars.
8. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet combo from these treats offers an interesting textural contrast alongside your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making key lime pie bars can be simple, but small mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale graham crackers: Always use fresh graham crackers for the crust. Stale crackers won’t provide the right texture and flavor.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision matters in baking! Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure your key lime pie bars turn out perfectly.

• Overbaking the filling: Keep an eye on the oven. Overbaking can lead to a dry filling. Bake just until set, and remember it will continue to firm up while chilling.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling is crucial for the perfect texture. Don’t skip this step; allow your bars to chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

• Using bottled lime juice: For the best flavor, use fresh key lime juice. Bottled juices may contain preservatives that can alter the taste of your key lime pie bars.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Key lime pie bars can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Key Lime Pie Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Key Lime Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 10-15 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a bar in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a couple of minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key lime pie bars are beloved by many, and it’s common to have some questions about this delicious dessert. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What are Key Lime Pie Bars?

Key lime pie bars are a dessert made with a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, tart filling made from key lime juice, eggs, and cream cheese.

Can I make Key Lime Pie Bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or frozen, making them perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.

How long do Key Lime Pie Bars last?

When properly stored in an airtight container, key lime pie bars will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or 3 months if frozen.

Can I substitute regular limes for key limes?

Yes, you can use regular limes instead of key limes if needed. However, key limes offer a unique tartness that enhances the flavor of these bars.

How do I cut my Key Lime Pie Bars neatly?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. Wipe it clean between cuts to maintain neat edges on your key lime pie bars.

Final Thoughts

Key lime pie bars are an irresistible treat that combines tangy flavors with creamy textures. Their versatility allows for various customizations; feel free to add different toppings like whipped cream or zest for extra flair! Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful dessert bars at your next gathering!

Print

Key Lime Pie Bars

---

• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 48 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 9 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the refreshing taste of Key Lime Pie Bars, a delightful twist on a classic dessert. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, tangy lime filling, these bars are perfect for any occasion—be it summer picnics, birthday parties, or simply as a sweet treat at home. Their balance of sweetness and tartness makes them incredibly satisfying and easy to prepare, allowing you to impress friends and family without extensive time in the kitchen. With versatile serving options and make-ahead convenience, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 15 sheets graham crackers (or 30 squares)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 6 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 4 egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• ½ cup key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Crush graham crackers in a food processor. Combine crumbs with sugar and melted butter in a mixing bowl.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes.
4. In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth; add sweetened condensed milk, mixing well.
5. Incorporate egg yolks one at a time, then mix in lime zest, juice, and vanilla until blended.
6. Pour filling over crust and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes until set.
7. Allow to cool slightly before chilling in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours. Cut into squares and serve.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 28 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For the best flavor, use fresh key limes instead of bottled juice. Chill thoroughly before serving for optimal texture. You can customize toppings with whipped cream or fresh berries for added flair.