These Key Lime Pie Bars are a tasty treat with a zesty lime flavor and a buttery crust. They are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, bringing a slice of sunshine to your day!
Who can resist the sweet and tangy combination? I always make sure to have whipped cream on top—because let’s be honest, it makes everything better! 😄
Making these bars is so easy. Just mix, bake, and cut into squares! They disappear quickly at my house, and I don’t mind making them again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These crumbs are the base of the crust. If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafers for a different twist. Just crush them well for a good consistency!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient provides sweetness and creaminess. If you’re looking for a less sugary option, you can try making a homemade version with evaporated milk and sugar, though it might take some extra work in cooking.
Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed juice is best for flavor. If you can’t find key limes, Persian limes work too, but remember they might taste a little less tangy. You can also try bottled key lime juice, but the fresh stuff really shines!
Sour Cream: This gives the filling a nice creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute here if you’re looking for something lighter, just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crust for Key Lime Pie Bars?
Creating the crust is an important step to ensure your bars hold together well. You’ll want to press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the baking dish. This helps it stick during baking.
- Mix the crumbs with melted butter and sugar until well combined.
- Use your fingers to firmly press the mixture down to form an even layer. A flat measuring cup works great here!
- Bake until it’s lightly golden, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. It should smell amazing!
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Filling:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (about 4-5 key limes)
- Zest of 2 key limes
- 3 large egg yolks
For The Topping:
- Whipped cream or cool whip (for serving)
- Additional lime zest (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and then about 30-40 minutes for baking and cooling. After that, be sure to chill for at least 2 hours in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at around 2 hours and 15 minutes to have these delicious bars ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You’ll want a 9×9-inch baking dish. Either grease it well or line it with parchment paper to make removing the bars easier later on. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter together until the crumbs are completely coated. Then, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared dish to create an even crust.
2. Bake the Crust:
Pop the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 8-10 minutes. You’re looking for a light golden color on the crust. Once it’s ready, take it out and set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, lime zest, and egg yolks. Keep mixing until everything is nice and smooth—this is the creamy filling for your pie bars!
4. Bake the Filling:
Now, pour this filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly. Bake again for another 15-20 minutes. You want the filling to be set but not browned. Watch it closely towards the end to achieve the perfect texture!
5. Cool and Chill:
After baking, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Once cool, cover it and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This helps the bars firm up and makes them easier to cut.
6. Slice and Serve:
When the bars are fully chilled, carefully lift them from the dish using the parchment paper overhang (if you used it). Cut them into squares, and when you’re ready to serve, top each square with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest for that extra zing. Enjoy your refreshing Key Lime Pie Bars!
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Yes, you can substitute regular limes for key limes! While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still taste great. If you’re using regular limes, keep in mind that they might be juicier, so you may need to adjust the amount used to achieve the same tartness.
Can I Make the Crust Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the graham cracker crust and store it in an airtight container for up to a week before using it. Just be sure to press it firmly into the baking dish when you’re ready to bake the bars for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftover Key Lime Pie Bars?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to place a piece of parchment paper on top to prevent sticking and keep the whipped cream separate until you’re ready to serve.
Can I Freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?
Yes, these bars can be frozen! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
