Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Key Lime Pie Bars


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Julia
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12-16 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Key Lime Pie Bars are a refreshing twist on the classic Key Lime Pie, offering a tangy, creamy filling with a buttery graham cracker crust. Topped with whipped cream and lime zest, these easy-to-make bars are perfect for summer gatherings, holiday parties, or any occasion that calls for a sweet and citrusy treat.


Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs (homemade or store-bought)

⅓ cup sugar

8 tablespoons (1 stick) salted butter, melted

Filling:
2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk

5 ounces cream cheese, softened

⅔ cup key lime juice (about 1 lb bag of fresh limes)

12 tablespoons grated lime zest (more to taste)

For Serving:
Whipped cream

Lime slices

Lime zest


Instructions

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are coated with butter.

  3. Press into the Pan: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.

  4. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

For the Key Lime Filling:

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk and beat until fully incorporated.

  2. Add Lime Juice and Zest: Stir in the key lime juice and lime zest. Continue mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.

  3. Fill the Crust: Pour the lime filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly.

  4. Bake the Bars: Bake the bars at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled and firm.

For Serving:

  1. Serve: Once the bars are chilled and set, cut them into squares. Top with a dollop of whipped cream, a slice of lime, and additional lime zest for garnish.

Notes

Crust Variation: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for a different flavor.

Lime Variations: Regular lime juice can be used if key limes are unavailable, but fresh key lime juice offers a more authentic, tangy flavor.

Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or other gluten-free cookies for the crust.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American