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)
1–2 tablespoons grated lime zest (more to taste)
For Serving:
Whipped cream
Lime slices
Lime zest
Instructions
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
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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.
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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.
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Press into the Pan: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even crust.
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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:
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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.
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Add Lime Juice and Zest: Stir in the key lime juice and lime zest. Continue mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.
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Fill the Crust: Pour the lime filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly.
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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:
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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