These Key Lime Pie Bars are a sweet, tangy treat with a buttery crust that will brighten your day! The creamy lime filling is refreshingly smooth and oh-so delicious.
I love how easy these bars are to make! They’re perfect for sharing, but be warned—they’re so good you might want to keep them all to yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: This is the base of your crust. If you can’t find them, you can crush digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafers for a different flavor. It’s fun to experiment!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: It adds creaminess and sweetness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, look for coconut condensed milk as a good substitute. It gives a nice flavor profile too!
Key Lime Juice: Fresh key lime juice gives a unique tartness. However, regular lime juice works just fine if key limes aren’t available. Honestly, I’ve used both, and they taste tasty!
Sour Cream: This adds richness and tang. For a lighter version, you could use Greek yogurt, which also thickens nicely.
How Do I Know When the Filling is Set?
The filling is a crucial part of these bars, and knowing when it’s set can be tricky. Look for a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the pan. This means it will firm up as it cools.
- After pouring the filling, bake until the edges are firm, but the center has that slight jiggle.
- Allow the bars to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This helps them set fully.
- Always cool completely in the fridge for at least 2 hours before cutting, to get clean, neat squares!
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Filling:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- Zest of 2 limes
- 2 large eggs
For Topping:
- Whipped cream (for serving)
- Lime zest (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 25-30 minutes of baking time, plus 2 hours to chill in the fridge. In total, you’ll spend about 2 hours and 45 minutes from start to finish before indulging in these refreshing bars!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the crust!
2. Make The Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir it well until all the crumbs are evenly moistened. Now, take the mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. This will create a nice, even layer. Pop the dish in the oven for about 8-10 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Once done, take it out and let it cool slightly.
3. Prepare The Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, lime zest, and eggs. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and well combined. This filling is what makes the bars sweet and tangy!
4. Bake The Bars:
Pour your luscious lime filling over the cooled crust and spread it out evenly. Now, return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes. You want the filling to be set but still a little jiggly in the center—that’s the perfect texture!
5. Cooling and Chilling:
After baking, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool down to room temperature. Once they are cooled, pop them in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps them set completely and makes them ultra refreshing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the bars out of the fridge and cut them into squares. Top each piece with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest. Enjoy your delicious key lime pie bars with friends and family!
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Yes, you can absolutely use regular limes if key limes aren’t available. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still deliver a delicious tangy profile. Just make sure to adjust the zest accordingly since regular limes tend to be larger.
How Do I Store Leftover Key Lime Pie Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I Make the Crust Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the graham cracker crust a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to add the filling. This can actually help the crust firm up nicely!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars?
Key lime pie bars are best served chilled, topped with freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest for a burst of freshness. You can also serve them with a slice of lime or a twist of lime peel for added flair. Enjoy!
