Key lime pie bars are a simple yet delicious dessert that combines the tartness of key lime juice with the sweetness of a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and sure to be a hit at your next gathering. If you're a fan of citrus desserts, this is a must-try! Stay with us as we break down the recipe step-by-step and provide tips and tricks to make these bars flawless every time.
What Are Key Lime Pie Bars?
Key lime pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic key lime pie, but in a more convenient, handheld bar form. Like their pie counterpart, they feature a zesty lime-flavored filling sitting atop a crunchy graham cracker crust. Key lime pie bars offer all the refreshing flavors you love in an easy-to-make, easy-to-serve, and easy-to-eat dessert. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or even a quick weeknight treat!
Call to Action: Read on to discover the best tips and tricks to make the most delicious key lime pie bars. You'll love how easy and fun they are to create!
Ingredients List for Key Lime Pie Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these tasty key lime pie bars.
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full crackers)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- A pinch of salt
For the Key Lime Filling:
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice (from about 15-20 key limes)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest (optional for extra zing)
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional for a creamier texture)
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream (store-bought or homemade)
- Additional lime zest or lime slices for garnish
Substitutions and Variations
Making key lime pie bars is versatile, and there are many ways to tweak the recipe according to your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here are a few ideas to change things up:
- Substitute graham crackers: If you don’t have graham crackers on hand, crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even gingersnaps can make a great crust.
- Swap key lime juice: Can’t find key limes? Regular limes, or even bottled key lime juice, will work. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious!
- Add a tropical twist: For a different flavor profile, try adding a tablespoon of coconut extract to the filling, or use coconut-flavored whipped cream on top.
- Gluten-free crust: Use gluten-free graham crackers or your favorite gluten-free cookie to make this recipe celiac-friendly.
- Vegan variation: Swap the butter in the crust for a plant-based alternative, and use a vegan condensed milk and egg replacer for the filling. The result will still be creamy and tangy!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

These easy-to-follow instructions will guide you through the process of creating the perfect key lime pie bars. Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned pro, you'll find this recipe straightforward and fun to make!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will allow your crust and filling to bake evenly and develop that signature golden color.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crust mixture into a parchment-lined 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or the bottom of a glass.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, until it's lightly golden and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they’re pale and thick. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until well combined.
- Gradually whisk in the key lime juice and lime zest. If you're adding sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess, fold that in as well.
- Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
- Pour the lime filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Don’t overbake! You want the bars to have a smooth, custard-like texture.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to firm up.
How to Cook Key Lime Pie Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking key lime pie bars is simple and doesn’t require any special techniques. Here’s a recap to ensure your bars come out perfect:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the crust by combining graham cracker crumbs, butter, sugar, and salt. Press into the baking dish and bake for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the filling by whisking egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest.
- Bake the filling for about 15-18 minutes, until it is just set.
- Cool and chill before cutting into bars.
By following these easy steps, you'll have a tray of perfectly tangy, sweet, and creamy key lime pie bars in no time!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To help you avoid any kitchen mishaps, here are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overbaking the filling: The key to a creamy filling is to bake it just until it’s set. If you bake it for too long, it can become grainy or dry.
- Skipping the chilling step: It’s essential to let the bars chill in the fridge for at least two hours after baking. This will help them firm up and make cutting them into bars much easier.
- Not using fresh lime juice: Bottled lime juice can sometimes taste bitter or artificial. Fresh key limes (or regular limes) will give you the best flavor.
- Uneven crust: Make sure you press the crust evenly into the pan so that it bakes evenly. This will ensure every bite has the perfect crust-to-filling ratio.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation matters, especially when you’re serving a dessert as gorgeous as key lime pie bars! Here are some tips to serve your bars beautifully:
- Cut clean slices: For the cleanest cuts, use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between each slice. This will help avoid any messy edges.
- Add garnish: Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of lime zest, or a thin slice of lime for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Serve chilled: Key lime pie bars taste best when they’re cold. Be sure to refrigerate them until ready to serve, especially if you're serving them at a gathering.
How to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars
Key lime pie bars are best served chilled straight from the fridge. Their refreshing flavor and creamy texture make them the perfect dessert for hot weather, but they're delicious year-round! You can serve them on their own, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Presentation Ideas for Key Lime Pie Bars
- Mini Lime Wheels: Top each square with a small wheel of lime for a visually appealing garnish.
- Dust of Powdered Sugar: Sprinkle some powdered sugar over the bars for an elegant touch.
- Serve on a Platter: Arrange the bars neatly on a large serving platter and garnish with lime zest for a pop of color.
Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe Tips
- Use parchment paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper will make it easier to lift the bars out and slice them cleanly.
- Chill overnight: For even more flavor and firmer texture, let the bars chill overnight before slicing.
- Make ahead: These bars can be made up to two days in advance, making them a perfect dessert for parties or busy days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Yes, you can substitute regular limes if you can’t find key limes. The flavor will be slightly less tart, but still delicious.
2. How long do key lime pie bars last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, key lime pie bars will last up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze key lime pie bars?
Yes! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make this recipe gluten-free.
5. What if I don’t have fresh limes?
If you don’t have fresh limes, you can use bottled key lime juice, though the flavor won’t be as bright as using fresh limes.
Conclusion
Easy key lime pie bars are the perfect combination of tangy and sweet, with a creamy filling and buttery crust. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe will hit the spot every time. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and outstanding flavor, this is a dessert you'll make again and again. Try it today and enjoy a little slice of tropical heaven!
PrintEasy Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe
These easy Key Lime Pie Bars feature a tangy key lime filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for a quick, refreshing citrus dessert. Ideal for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet-tart treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Sugar
- Unsalted butter
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Egg yolks
- Key lime juice
- Lime zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare a baking pan with parchment paper.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter to form the crust. Press into the pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, key lime juice, and zest.
- Pour the mixture over the crust and bake until set.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate for a few hours before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Substitute regular lime juice if key limes are unavailable.
- Bars should be chilled for at least 2 hours before serving for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 110mg
Leave a Reply