These Easy Key Lime Pie Bars are a zesty treat that will brighten your day! With a buttery crust and a creamy lime filling, they’re a perfect combination of sweet and tart.
I love how simple these bars are to whip up. Just mix, pour, and bake! They’re great for sharing, and you’ll be the star of the next gathering with these refreshing bars!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These provide a sweet, crunchy crust. You can substitute with crushed digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafer cookies if you want a different flavor.
Key Lime Juice: Fresh key lime juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch. If both are unavailable, regular lime juice can be used. Your bars will still taste great!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is key for a creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, you could try using evaporated milk combined with a bit of sugar, though it won’t be as sweet.
Heavy Whipping Cream: For the topping, heavy cream is best for whipping. If you need a non-dairy option, look for coconut cream, which also adds a nice hint of flavor.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Set Filling?
Getting the filling just right can be tricky, but it’s all about the baking time and temperature. You want it to be set at the edges, but slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly to help with even cooking.
- Check the bars a minute or two before the recommended time. Turn the pan halfway through for even baking.
- After removing, let the bars cool at room temperature before chilling. This helps prevent cracking.
Why Chill the Bars?
Chilling the bars is super important because it helps them set further, making them easier to cut and gives them a perfect texture. Let them chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours, but if you can overnight, even better!
What’s the Best Way to Cut the Bars?
To get clean cuts, use a sharp knife and run it under hot water, then dry it off before slicing. Wiping the knife between cuts can help keep the edges neat!
Easy Key Lime Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk (about 1/2 of a 14 oz can)
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest (or regular lime zest if unavailable)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Additional lime zest or finely grated lime peel for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 2 hours to chill in the fridge. You’ll have a delicious treat ready in no time, perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the bars out later.
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix everything together until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Then, firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
3. Bake the Crust:
Place the crust in the oven and bake for about 8 minutes, or until it becomes lightly golden. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Filling:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sweetened condensed milk until fully combined. Add in the key lime juice and zest, stirring until everything is well incorporated.
5. Bake the Filling:
Pour the filling over the cooled crust and return it to the oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set and just slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Cool and Chill:
After baking, take the bars out of the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to let them fully set.
7. Make the Topping:
While the bars chill, you can prepare the topping. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
8. Assemble the Bars:
Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled lime bars. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it out nicely.
9. Garnish:
Sprinkle additional lime zest on top for a pretty garnish and extra flavor!
10. Serve:
Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut them into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy your delightful Key Lime Pie Bars!
These tangy and creamy bars are sure to be a hit. They’re perfect for parties, picnics, or just a refreshing treat at home!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Absolutely! While key limes provide a unique flavor, regular limes can be used if key limes are unavailable. The bars will still taste delicious, just with a slightly different zest.
How Do I Store Leftover Bars?
Leftover Key Lime Pie Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They might lose a bit of their whipped cream topping texture, so it’s best to add that fresh if you expect to have leftovers!
Can I Freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container before placing them in the freezer. They can be frozen for up to a month. To enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
What Can I Use Instead of Sweetened Condensed Milk?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute sweetened condensed milk with a mixture of evaporated milk and sugar. Use about 3/4 cup of evaporated milk and add 1/4 cup of sugar. Stir until combined for a similar sweetness.
