Key Lime Pie Bars

Key lime pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, tart lime filling. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a holiday gathering, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Their vibrant flavor and easy-to-make recipe make them a standout choice for dessert lovers everywhere.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Crust
• For the Filling
• How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Crust
• Step 3: Make the Filling
• Step 4: Combine and Bake Again
• Step 5: Chill Before Serving
• Step 6: Serve Your Bars
• How to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars
• Pair with Fresh Berries
• Serve with Whipped Cream
• Garnish with Lime Wedges
• Drizzle with Chocolate
• Serve Frozen
• How to Perfect Key Lime Pie Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Pie Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Key Lime Pie Bars
• Reheating Key Lime Pie Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Key Lime Pie Bars?
• Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
• How do I know when Key Lime Pie Bars are done?
• Can I customize Key Lime Pie Bars?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these key lime pie bars can be whipped up in no time.
• Perfectly Tart and Sweet: The combination of key lime juice and sweetened condensed milk creates a balanced flavor that pleases every palate.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or just a family night in. They can be served chilled or at room temperature!
• Make Ahead Option: These bars chill well in the fridge, making them great to prepare ahead of time for busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 12 servings per batch, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making key lime pie bars, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Makes crushing graham crackers quick and easy for the crust.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without any mess.
• Baking pan: A 9×9-inch pan is perfect for achieving the right thickness in your bars.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Ensures the cream cheese is blended smoothly with other ingredients.

Ingredients

Key lime pie bars are a favorite dessert in a bar – a buttery graham cracker crust and a tart and creamy lime filling!!

For the Crust

• 15 sheets graham crackers (or 30 squares)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• pinch salt
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

For the Filling

• 6 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 4 egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• ½ cup key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your 9×9-inch pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This will help with easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a food processor or large Ziploc bag with a rolling pin, crush the graham crackers until they form fine crumbs.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crumbs with sugar, salt, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the lined pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Filling

While your crust is baking, take another large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the sweetened condensed milk and mix until combined.
Next, add in egg yolks one at a time, ensuring each is well mixed before adding the next. Stir in lime zest, key lime juice, and vanilla extract until everything is blended together.

Step 4: Combine and Bake Again

Pour the creamy filling over your hot baked crust. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until set; avoid browning on top.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Once baked, remove from oven and allow it to cool slightly before placing it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 2-4 hours before serving.

Step 6: Serve Your Bars

Cut into squares and serve chilled! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to five days. Enjoy these delicious key lime pie bars!

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars

Key lime pie bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a casual gathering or a special occasion, these bars are sure to impress. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a sweet contrast to the tartness of the lime.
• Blueberries: Their burst of flavor complements the creamy filling perfectly.
• Raspberries: Tart raspberries enhance the overall taste and add vibrant color.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it balances the richness of the bars.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding lime zest or vanilla for an extra kick.

Garnish with Lime Wedges

• Fresh Lime Wedges: A simple garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Candied Lime Slices: For a decorative touch, try using candied lime slices on top.

Drizzle with Chocolate

• Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A rich chocolate sauce creates an indulgent twist on the classic flavor.
• White Chocolate Drizzle: Adds sweetness and makes for a beautiful presentation.

Serve Frozen

• Frozen Bars: Freeze the key lime pie bars for a refreshing summer treat.

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How to Perfect Key Lime Pie Bars

To ensure your key lime pie bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh key limes when possible. Their flavor is superior to bottled juice.
• Cream Cheese Temperature: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing and smooth texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time. The filling should be set but not browned for best results.
• Chill Properly: Allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator for several hours before serving. This enhances flavors and helps them set firmly.
• Cut with Care: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to cut clean slices without crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Pie Bars

Key lime pie bars can be served alongside various side dishes that complement their zesty flavor. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of pineapple, mango, and kiwi enhances tropical flavors.
2. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies provide a sweet contrast to tangy bars.
3. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut treats pair well with the citrus notes in key lime pie bars.
4. Ice Cream: Vanilla or coconut ice cream serves as a creamy complement to the tartness.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can balance sweetness and provide variety on the table.
6. Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink option that cleanses the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making key lime pie bars can be simple, but avoiding common pitfalls will ensure your dessert turns out perfectly.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy filling. Always let it reach room temperature before mixing.
• Overbaking the crust: Baking the crust too long can make it hard. Bake just until lightly golden.
• Not measuring key lime juice accurately: Too much or too little juice can affect the tartness. Use a measuring cup for precision.
• Skipping the chilling time: Not chilling the bars long enough can result in a soft filling. Allow at least 2 hours in the fridge before serving.
• Cutting into warm bars: Cutting them while still warm can cause the filling to spill out. Wait until they are fully chilled.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store key lime pie bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Key Lime Pie Bars

• Cut into squares before freezing for easy serving.
• Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Key Lime Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds per piece, checking often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Key Lime Pie Bars?

Key lime pie bars are a delicious dessert made with a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, tangy lime filling.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, you can use regular limes if key limes are not available. The flavor will differ slightly but will still be delicious.

How do I know when Key Lime Pie Bars are done?

They should be set but not browned on top. A slight jiggle in the center is normal as they will firm up while cooling.

Can I customize Key Lime Pie Bars?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors like coconut or berries or even top with whipped cream or meringue for added flair.

Final Thoughts

Key lime pie bars are a delightful treat that balances sweetness with tartness beautifully. They’re perfect for gatherings or just as a cozy dessert at home. Feel free to customize these bars with your favorite toppings or flavors, making them uniquely yours!