These Key Lime Pie Bars are a tasty twist on the classic dessert! With a zesty lime filling on a crunchy graham cracker crust, they’re both sweet and tangy.
I love how easy these bars are to make! Just mix, bake, and chill—perfect for sharing at a picnic or enjoying on a sunny day. Who can resist a bite? 🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These crunchy crumbs add a great base. If you need a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers. I’ve found that almond flour gives a lovely nutty flavor!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient is key for creaminess. You can substitute it with homemade condensed milk or even coconut cream for a dairy-free twist, which adds a subtle coconut taste.
Key Lime Juice: Key limes are the star here! If you can’t find them, regular lime juice works in a pinch. It’s slightly less tart, but still tasty! I sometimes mix them for extra flavor.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is necessary for the whipped topping. You can swap with coconut cream for a lighter, non-dairy option, and it adds a nice tropical flair to the dessert!
What’s the Best Way to Get a Perfectly Set Filling?
Getting the filling just right can be tricky! You want it to be set but still a little jiggly. Here’s how to nail it:
- Ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature – too hot might overcook it.
- Whisk the filling well to incorporate air for a light texture.
- When you bake, keep an eye on it! Look for a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven. It will firm up as it cools.
Let the bars cool completely at room temperature before chilling for a few hours. Patience is key here!
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 Key Lime Filling:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Whipped Cream:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Lime zest for garnish
- Fresh lime slices for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, plus at least 4 hours in the fridge to chill. You’ll have a total of around 4 hours and 45 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious bars, but much of that time is hands-off!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to make it easy to remove the bars later.
2. Make the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined and it looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to form a crust. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes, then take it out and let it cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Key Lime Filling:
In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and all ingredients are combined. This filling will give your bars that delicious key lime flavor!
4. Bake the Filling:
Pour the key lime mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. The filling should be set but still a little jiggly in the middle. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours to chill completely.
5. Whip the Cream:
After the bars have chilled, make the whipped cream. In a bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with the powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This will be a light and airy topping for your key lime bars!
6. Assemble and Serve:
Spread the whipped cream over the chilled key lime filling evenly. Garnish with fresh lime zest to add a nice touch. Cut the bars into squares and serve. You can also add a slice of lime on the side if you like. Enjoy your sweet and tangy key lime pie bars!
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Absolutely! While key limes have a distinct flavor, you can substitute regular limes in this recipe. Just keep in mind that the taste will be a bit different, slightly more tart. Use the same quantity of juice and adjust to your preference if needed.
Can I Make the Crust Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the crust in advance! Once it has cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.
How Should I Store Leftover Key Lime Pie Bars?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between the layers if stacking them to prevent sticking. You can also freeze the bars, but it’s best to wrap them tightly and consume them within 2 months for the best taste.
Can I Substitute Fat-Free Sweetened Condensed Milk?
Yes, you can use fat-free sweetened condensed milk if you want a lighter version. However, keep in mind that the texture and richness may be slightly different. The overall flavor will still be delicious, so feel free to make this substitution!
