Best Key Lime Pie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Silky Smooth Texture: The key lime filling is creamy and smooth, providing a luxurious mouthfeel that melts in your mouth.

• Bold Lime Flavor: The use of fresh key lime juice and zest imparts a vibrant, tangy flavor that shines through in every bite.

• Easy to Make: With just 9 simple ingredients and less than 15 minutes of active preparation, these bars are straightforward to prepare.

• Perfectly Balanced Layers: The combination of the crunchy graham cracker crust, silky lime filling, and sweet whipped cream topping creates a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them ideal for gatherings and parties.

Ingredients

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

For the crust:

• 230g graham crackers (~16 full sheets)

• ½ cup melted butter (113g)

For the key lime filling:

• 2 cans sweetened condensed milk (28oz)

• ¾ cup key lime juice (180g)

• 1 tablespoon key lime zest (2-3 limes)

• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ⅔ cup sour cream or yogurt (160g)

• 2 egg yolks

For the topping:

• 1½ cups heavy cream, chilled (360g)

• 2 tablespoon granulated sugar

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Directions

1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper rises above the edges for easy removal.

2. Make the crust: Grind the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.

3. Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

4. Prepare the filling: In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, vanilla extract, and sour cream (or yogurt) until smooth. Add the egg yolks and whisk until fully incorporated.

5. Assemble the bars: Pour the key lime filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.

6. Bake the bars: Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Bake the assembled bars for 17-18 minutes until the edges are set but the center still slightly jiggles.

7. Cool and refrigerate: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.

8. Prepare the topping: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.

9. Serve: Once the bars are fully set, spread the whipped cream topping evenly over the bars. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares. Serve chilled.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Refrigeration Time: 4 hours minimum

• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 40 minutes

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Variations

• Lemon Bars: Substitute key lime juice with lemon juice for a citrusy twist.

• Ginger Snap Crust: Use crushed ginger snap cookies instead of graham crackers for a spiced crust.

• Coconut Whipped Cream: Replace regular whipped cream with coconut whipped cream for a tropical flavor.

• Berry Topping: Top the bars with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for added color and flavor.

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Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: These bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

• Serving: Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

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FAQs

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, you can substitute regular limes. However, key limes have a more intense flavor, so you may need to adjust the quantity to taste.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Yes, you can omit the egg yolks and replace them with an additional 2 tablespoons of sour cream or yogurt. The filling may be slightly less set but still delicious.

How can I tell when the bars are done baking?

The edges should be set, and the center should jiggle slightly when the pan is shaken. The bars will continue to set as they cool.

Can I make these bars in advance?

Yes, these bars can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Add the whipped cream topping just before serving.

Can I use a different crust?

Yes, you can experiment with different crusts, such as a shortbread or almond flour crust, to suit your preferences.

Can I add a meringue topping instead of whipped cream?

Yes, a lightly browned meringue topping can be used as an alternative to whipped cream for a traditional key lime pie presentation.

How do I cut the bars neatly?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut to ensure clean edges.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or an alternative gluten-free crust to make these bars gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake in a 9x13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time as needed.

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Conclusion

These Best Key Lime Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of key lime pie with the convenience of a bar format. Their silky texture, bold lime flavor, and easy preparation make them a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a refreshing treat, these bars are sure to impress.