These Key Lime Pie Bars are like a sunny slice of happiness! With a zesty lime filling on a buttery crust, they are both sweet and tart. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
Whenever I make these, I can’t resist taking a bite straight from the pan. They’re so refreshing and bright, I almost feel like I’m on a tropical vacation! Just don’t forget the whipped cream on top!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These give the crust a sweet, crunchy base. If you need a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free cookies like almond or coconut cookies instead.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient is key for that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut condensed milk, which adds a nice flavor too.
Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is best because it adds a bright taste. If you can’t find key limes, regular lime juice works well. Just remember it will change the flavor slightly.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is what makes the topping light and fluffy. If you’re watching calories, you can substitute it with a whipped topping or a lighter cream, though the taste might differ.
How Do You Get the Key Lime Bars to Set Perfectly?
The filling’s consistency can be tricky! Make sure to mix all the ingredients thoroughly to avoid lumps. When baking, look for a slight jiggle in the center – this means it’s done but still needs to set. Letting it cool to room temperature before chilling is crucial for that perfect texture.
- Combine well: Whisk the filling until it’s smooth. Lumps can lead to uneven cooking.
- Watch the bake time: Take it out when it’s slightly jiggly in the center.
- Chill well: A minimum of 2 hours in the fridge helps it firm up nicely for cutting.
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:
- 2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- Zest of 2 key limes
- 3 large egg yolks
For The Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Zest of 1 key lime (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 28-30 minutes for baking, and then you’ll need to allow at least 2 hours for chilling. Altogether, it’s a fun and refreshing dessert that you can easily make and enjoy later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing some paper to hang over the edges. This will help you lift the bars out later. Easy peasy!
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks like wet sand. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to make a smooth, even layer.
3. Bake the Crust:
Place the crust in the hot oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, until it’s lightly golden. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool a bit while you prepare the filling.
4. 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 whisking until the mixture is nice and smooth. You want all the flavors to blend together perfectly!
5. Bake the Filling:
Pour this delicious filling over your cooled crust and spread it out evenly. Bake it in the oven for another 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is slightly jiggly but not liquid. Don’t worry, it will set as it cools!
6. Cool and Chill:
Once baked, take the bars out of the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours. This helps the flavors develop and gives you that perfect texture!
7. Whip the Cream:
For the topping, in a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together until you get stiff peaks. This means it should hold its shape and not collapse. Spread this fluffy whipped cream over the chilled key lime filling.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some zest of the key lime on top for extra flavor and look amazing! You can also add lime slices if you’d like. Now, carefully cut into bars using a sharp knife—wiping the blade with a damp cloth in between cuts for clean edges. Chill and enjoy this zesty treat!
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Absolutely! While key limes have a distinct, tangy flavor, regular limes can be substituted in a pinch. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different but still delicious. Use the same amount of juice and zest as the recipe calls for.
How Do 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 parchment paper between layers if stacking, so the whipped topping doesn’t get squished!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs in place of regular graham cracker crumbs. Many brands offer gluten-free options that will work perfectly for the crust.
What Should I Do If My Filling Isn’t Setting?
If your filling isn’t setting after the allotted baking time, return it to the oven for a few extra minutes. Make sure not to overbake because the center should still have a slight jiggle when you remove it. If it’s still too unset after baking longer, refrigerate it for additional time to help it firm up.
