Easy Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe

Looking for a refreshing and zesty dessert that's simple to make? These Easy Key Lime Pie Bars are the perfect solution. They feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, tangy key lime filling, and are baked to perfection. With just the right amount of sweetness and tartness, these bars are a fantastic alternative to the traditional key lime pie. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or just want a citrusy treat, these bars will surely become a crowd favorite!

What are Key Lime Pie Bars?

Key Lime Pie Bars are a variation of the classic key lime pie, but made in a convenient, easy-to-serve bar form. They have the same elements: a graham cracker crust, a smooth and tangy key lime filling, and a creamy texture. The bars are baked and chilled, then sliced into squares or rectangles for easy serving. The zingy lime flavor makes these bars the perfect dessert for warm weather or any time you're craving something light and refreshing.

Ingredients List for Easy Key Lime Pie Bars

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full graham crackers)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Key Lime Filling:

• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup fresh key lime juice (about 20-25 key limes, or use bottled key lime juice)
• 2 teaspoons lime zest (optional, for extra flavor)

Optional Garnishes:

• Whipped cream
• Extra lime zest or lime slices
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Substitutions and Variations

These Key Lime Pie Bars are simple, but there are a few variations and substitutions you can try based on your preferences or dietary needs:

• Regular Limes: If you can’t find key limes, you can use regular limes. The flavor will be slightly less tart but still delicious.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free dessert.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk and a vegan butter alternative to make these bars dairy-free.
• Add Coconut: For a tropical twist, mix shredded coconut into the graham cracker crust or sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the bars before serving.
• Cracker Substitution: Swap out graham crackers for digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers to switch up the crust flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make Easy Key Lime Pie Bars that are both refreshing and delicious.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, making sure to create an even layer.

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove the crust from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Key Lime Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest (if using), and whisk everything together until well combined and creamy.

Step 4: Pour the Filling Over the Crust

Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the key lime filling over the graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Bake the Key Lime Pie Bars

Bake the bars in the oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The filling will firm up as the bars cool.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Allow the bars to cool to room temperature in the baking dish. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled and firm.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once the bars are fully chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Transfer them to a cutting board and slice them into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter, and press the mixture into the baking dish.
3. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then cool slightly.
4. Make the filling by whisking together egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and zest.
5. Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 15-18 minutes until set.
6. Cool the bars at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Using Fresh Lime Juice: Fresh key lime juice gives the best flavor. Bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, but it won’t have the same brightness and zest.
• Overbaking the Bars: Keep an eye on the bars while baking. The filling should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you take them out of the oven. Overbaking can lead to a dry or cracked filling.
• Skipping the Chill Time: Chilling the bars is essential for setting the filling and achieving the perfect texture. Be patient and allow the bars to chill for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Key Lime Pie Bars are beautiful on their own, but you can add some flair to your presentation for special occasions. Here are some ideas:

• Top with whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the tart lime flavor.
• Add extra zest: Sprinkle fresh lime zest over the top of the bars before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve with lime slices: Garnish each bar with a small slice of lime or a curl of lime peel for a pretty finishing touch.

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars

Key Lime Pie Bars are best served cold and are perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to holiday parties. Here are a few ideas on how to serve them:

• Serve chilled: These bars taste best when served cold, so keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
• Add toppings: Serve with a side of whipped cream, lime zest, or even a drizzle of white chocolate for added sweetness.
• Pair with fresh fruit: Serve the bars alongside fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a vibrant and refreshing presentation.

Presentation Ideas for Key Lime Pie Bars

• Dust with powdered sugar: Just before serving, dust the tops of the bars with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish.
• Individual servings: Place each bar in a colorful cupcake liner for easy serving at parties or picnics.
• Cut into fun shapes: Use a cookie cutter to cut the bars into fun shapes like hearts or stars, perfect for themed parties.

Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe Tips

• Use fresh key limes: Fresh key limes will give you the most authentic flavor. If you can’t find key limes, bottled key lime juice or regular limes will still taste great.
• Make ahead: These bars can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them perfect for stress-free entertaining.
• Refrigerate for clean cuts: For cleaner slices, chill the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat, precise squares.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Yes! Regular limes will work just as well in this recipe. The flavor will be slightly less tart than with key limes, but still delicious.

How long do Key Lime Pie Bars last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these bars will last up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Why did my bars crack?
Cracks can form if the bars are overbaked. Be sure to remove them from the oven while the center is still slightly jiggly, as they will continue to set as they cool.

Conclusion

These Easy Key Lime Pie Bars are a bright, tangy, and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of a buttery graham cracker crust with the creamy, zesty key lime filling is irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a summer gathering or simply indulging at home, these bars are sure to impress. Follow this simple recipe, and you’ll have a delicious batch of key lime bars ready to enjoy in no time!

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