Key Lime Pie Bars: A Refreshing Citrus Treat

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• Pinch of salt

For the Key Lime Filling:

• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
• 1 tablespoon lime zest (from about 2 limes)

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Lime slices or zest for garnish
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt.
4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
5. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks until slightly thickened and pale yellow.
2. Add sweetened condensed milk and mix until smooth.
3. Stir in lime juice and zest, mixing until fully combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the lime filling over the cooled crust.
2. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

1. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
2. Slice into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
3. Garnish with whipped cream, lime zest, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
4. Serve chilled and enjoy the tropical goodness!

Tips for Perfect Key Lime Pie Bars

 Use Fresh Key Lime Juice: If available, fresh key limes give the best flavor. Bottled juice is a good alternative.  Let Them Chill: Chill thoroughly before slicing to ensure clean cuts and a firm texture.  Use a Hot Knife: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between slices for neat bars.  Make a Double Batch: These go fast, so consider doubling the recipe in a 9×13-inch pan.

Storage and Make-Ahead

Refrigeration: Store bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.  Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Healthier Variations

Lighter Crust: Use a mixture of almond flour and coconut oil for a gluten-free option.  Natural Sweeteners: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup in the crust for a less refined version.  Dairy-Free: Use coconut condensed milk for a dairy-free filling alternative.

Final Thoughts

Key Lime Pie Bars are a vibrant, luscious dessert that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress. With their sweet-tart lime flavor and creamy texture on top of a buttery graham cracker crust, they bring a little taste of the tropics right to your table. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just craving something zesty, these bars are a delightful treat you’ll want to make again and again.

Enjoy!