Key Lime Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Key Lime Bars are incredibly easy to make, with just a few simple ingredients. They offer the perfect balance of tangy lime and creamy texture, making them the ideal treat for a hot day. Not only are they a delightful dessert, but they also have a stunning presentation that is sure to impress any guest.

Ingredients

Crust:

• Crushed graham crackers

• Light brown sugar

• Key lime zest

• Melted butter

Filling:

• Cream cheese

• Sweetened condensed milk

• Key lime juice

• Key lime zest

Whipped Topping:

• Heavy cream

• Sugar

• Key lime juice

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper along the bottom and two sides.

2. To make the crust, mix the crushed graham crackers, light brown sugar, and key lime zest in a bowl. Add the melted butter and combine until the texture resembles wet sand.

3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for about 10 minutes to set the crust. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

4. For the filling, beat the cream cheese in a stand mixer until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and zest, mixing until well combined and smooth.

5. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake for an additional 10 minutes to set the filling.

6. Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for best results.

7. To make the whipped topping, beat heavy cream with sugar and key lime juice until soft peaks form.

8. Once chilled, cut the bars into desired pieces and top with whipped cream and additional key lime zest for garnish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12-16 bars

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Chill time: 4-6 hours (or overnight)

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Key Lime Bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Allow frozen bars to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, you can use regular limes, but key limes will give the bars their signature tart flavor.

2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these bars up to 3 days in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate them until you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze Key Lime Bars?

Yes, freeze them after cooling to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap for up to 2 months.

4. How do I prevent my crust from being too soggy?

Make sure to bake the crust until it’s golden and set before adding the filling. This will help prevent it from becoming soggy.

5. Can I make these bars without the whipped cream topping?

Yes, the bars are delicious without the whipped cream, but it adds a nice creamy texture and a light finish.

6. How long should I chill the Key Lime Bars before serving?

For best results, chill the bars for at least 4-6 hours, but overnight is ideal for the perfect texture.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake in a 9x13-inch pan. Just adjust the baking time slightly.

8. How do I prevent the filling from cracking?

Make sure not to overbake the filling. Bake it just long enough to set, about 10 minutes after pouring it over the crust.

9. Can I use almond flour for the crust?

Yes, you can substitute almond flour for graham crackers for a gluten-free version.

10. Can I use a different type of sugar in the crust?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar or maple sugar for light brown sugar if desired.

Conclusion

These Key Lime Bars are the perfect sweet and tart treat for any occasion, especially during warmer months. With their simple ingredients, smooth filling, and refreshing lime flavor, they are sure to be a hit. Whether you're serving them at a party or enjoying them as a family treat, they are easy to make and absolutely delicious!

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These Key Lime Bars are the ultimate combination of tart and sweet, featuring a smooth, creamy filling with a graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm weather, these bite-sized bars are a fun twist on the classic key lime pie. Topped with fluffy whipped cream, these refreshing treats are a hit at any gathering. Easy to make and sure to impress, they offer the ideal balance of lime flavor and creamy texture.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 4-6 hours (or overnight)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 24-30 hours (including chill time)
• Yield: 12-16 bars
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Crust:

Crushed graham crackers

Light brown sugar

Key lime zest

Melted butter

Filling:

Cream cheese

Sweetened condensed milk

Key lime juice

Key lime zest

Whipped Topping:

Heavy cream

Sugar

Key lime juice

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper.

• Make the crust: In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers, light brown sugar, and key lime zest. Add melted butter and combine until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press into the pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack.

• Make the filling: Beat cream cheese in a stand mixer until smooth. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and zest. Mix until smooth.

• Pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake for 10 minutes to set the filling. Cool to room temperature.

• Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight for best results.

• Make whipped topping: Beat heavy cream, sugar, and key lime juice until soft peaks form.

• Once chilled, cut the bars into pieces and top with whipped cream and key lime zest.

Notes

• You can substitute regular limes if key limes are unavailable, but key limes provide a more intense flavor.

• To prevent the crust from being soggy, bake it until golden before adding the filling.

• These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing is also an option. Wrap the bars tightly and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.