Key Lime Pie Bars
Key Lime Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic key lime pie. These bar-style treats are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a creamy filling and a crunchy graham cracker crust, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make Key Lime Pie Bars because they are simple and delicious! This recipe requires straightforward ingredients and steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, the tartness of the key lime juice combined with the sweetness of the crust is irresistible. They are great for summer picnics, potlucks, or just as a special dessert at home.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
Here’s how you can make these tasty Key Lime Pie Bars:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 6 egg yolks
- 2 (14 ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup key lime juice
- Zest of 2 regular limes or 4 key limes
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- Lime zest for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil and spray with cooking spray.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add egg yolks and blend well.
- Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest. Pour this mixture over the baked crust and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Let cool for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
- In a bowl, beat the cold heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread this over the cooled bars.
- Chill for an additional 30 minutes, cut into squares, garnish with lime zest, and serve.
How to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars
Serve Key Lime Pie Bars chilled. They make a refreshing dessert. You can cut them into small squares and place them on a nice platter. Adding a sprinkle of lime zest on top gives them a pretty finish.
How to Store Key Lime Pie Bars
Store Key Lime Pie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to five days. Just make sure to keep them chilled until you’re ready to serve.
Tips to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor, but bottled key lime juice works too.
- Let the bars cool completely before adding the whipped cream topping.
Variation
You can add a little more zest if you like your bars extra tangy. You could also drizzle some melted chocolate on top for a chocolate-lime flavor!
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
A: Yes, you can use regular limes. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Q: Can I freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Q: How can I make the crust more flavorful?
A: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the graham cracker crust for an extra twist in flavor.
Enjoy making and eating your Key Lime Pie Bars! They are sure to brighten your day.
Print
Key Lime Pie Bars
- Total Time: 105 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful bar-style treats with a creamy filling and a crunchy graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 6 egg yolks
- 2 (14 ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup key lime juice
- Zest of 2 regular limes or 4 key limes
- 1 cup cold heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- Lime zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil and spray with cooking spray.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add egg yolks and blend well.
- Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest. Pour this mixture over the baked crust and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Let cool for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for 2-3 hours.
- In a bowl, beat the cold heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread this over the cooled bars.
- Chill for an additional 30 minutes, cut into squares, garnish with lime zest, and serve.
Notes
Make sure to use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling. Fresh lime juice is preferable for the best flavor. Chill well before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: key lime, dessert, bars, summer, easy dessert
