Description
These Easy Key Lime Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic pie, featuring a tangy and creamy lime filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly balanced with sweetness and citrus zing, they’re simple to make and ideal for parties, potlucks, or a refreshing dessert any time of year.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (key lime or regular)
- 2 large eggs
- Lime zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the bars.
- Prepare Crust Mixture: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand, ensuring the crumbs are evenly coated for a sturdy crust.
- Form Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, creating an even and compact layer to serve as the base.
- Mix Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lime juice, and eggs until smooth and fully combined, which ensures a creamy filling.
- Assemble Bars: Pour the lime filling over the prepared crust and smooth out the top with a spatula to distribute evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly but not liquid.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set and chill.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle lime zest evenly over the top for a fresh citrus aroma, slice into bars, and serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice, preferably key limes, for the best authentic flavor.
- Ensure the crust is firmly pressed to prevent crumbling when slicing.
- Do not overbake the filling; it should be slightly jiggly in the center when done.
- Refrigerate long enough to allow bars to firm up for proper slicing.
- These bars can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a garnish alternative, add a dollop of whipped cream or a thin lime slice.
