Key Lime Pie Bars

Key lime pie bars are a delightful treat that brings the refreshing taste of key lime pie into a convenient bar form. These bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth and tart lime filling, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these key lime pie bars will surely impress your guests and family alike!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Crust
• Step 3: Mix Crust Ingredients
• Step 4: Make the Filling
• Step 5: Incorporate Egg Yolks and Flavorings
• Step 6: Combine Filling with Crust
• Step 7: Chill Before Serving
• How to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars
• Garnish with Whipped Cream
• Add Fresh Lime Slices
• Serve with Coconut Flakes
• Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
• Drizzle with Lime Glaze
• Enjoy with Fresh Berries
• How to Perfect Key Lime Pie Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Pie Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Key Lime Pie Bars
• Reheating Key Lime Pie Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Key Lime Pie Bars?
• Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
• How do I know when my Key Lime Pie Bars are done baking?
• Can I customize my Key Lime Pie Bars recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfectly Tart and Sweet: The balance of creamy filling and tangy lime creates a refreshing dessert that’s hard to resist.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance, making them an ideal choice for parties or gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Size: Cut them into squares or rectangles to serve as bite-sized treats for events or larger pieces for indulgent servings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Their unique flavor and texture make them a favorite among dessert lovers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these delicious key lime pie bars, gather the necessary tools to ensure an easy cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This makes crushing graham crackers quick and effortless, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to keep ingredients organized while preparing your filling and crust separately.

Ingredients

Key lime pie bars are a favorite dessert in a bar – a buttery graham cracker crust and a tart and creamy lime filling!!

Ingredients:
– 15 sheets graham crackers, (or 30 squares)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– pinch salt
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, (melted)
– 6 ounces cream cheese, (room temperature)
– 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
– 4 egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon lime zest
– ½ cup key lime juice, (or regular lime juice)
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9-inch pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a food processor or large Ziploc bag with a rolling pin, crush the graham crackers until fine crumbs form.

Step 3: Mix Crust Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crumbs, sugar, salt, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the lined pan. Place it in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Filling

While the crust is baking, beat the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl using either a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk to this mix and combine thoroughly.

Step 5: Incorporate Egg Yolks and Flavorings

Add egg yolks one at a time, ensuring each is mixed well before adding the next. Follow this by mixing in lime zest, juice, and vanilla extract until everything is combined smoothly.

Step 6: Combine Filling with Crust

Pour the filling over your hot baked crust. Return it to the oven for another 15–18 minutes or until set—avoid browning on top.

Step 7: Chill Before Serving

Remove from oven and chill in the refrigerator for 2–4 hours before serving. Once chilled, cut into squares or rectangles. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars

Key lime pie bars are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, these bars can elevate any occasion.

Garnish with Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness and creaminess.

Add Fresh Lime Slices

• Decorate the serving platter with thin slices of fresh lime for a vibrant and zesty presentation.

Serve with Coconut Flakes

• Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for a tropical twist that complements the tart flavor.

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm key lime pie bars alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Drizzle with Lime Glaze

• Create a simple glaze using powdered sugar and lime juice, then drizzle it over the bars for extra sweetness.

Enjoy with Fresh Berries

• Serve the bars with fresh strawberries or blueberries on the side to add color and freshness to your dessert plate.

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How to Perfect Key Lime Pie Bars

To achieve the ultimate key lime pie bars, follow these simple tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Chill Before Serving: Allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting. This helps them set properly.
• Use Fresh Juice: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed key lime juice instead of bottled juice.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your bars while baking; they should be set but not browned on top. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This creates a smoother filling.
• Cut with Care: Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water to cut clean slices without tearing the crust.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Pie Bars

Key lime pie bars are a delightful dessert that pairs well with various side dishes. Consider these options to complement your sweet treat:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and balances the tartness of the bars.
2. Minted Yogurt – Combining yogurt with fresh mint makes for a refreshing dip that pairs beautifully with key lime flavors.
3. Coconut Rice – Creamy coconut rice serves as an excellent base, enhancing the tropical theme of your dessert.
4. Chilled Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad provides crunch and helps cleanse the palate between bites of rich dessert.
5. Pineapple Salsa – Sweet and tangy pineapple salsa offers a burst of flavor that complements key lime pie bars wonderfully.
6. Lemon Sorbet – A refreshing sorbet provides a citrusy touch, enhancing the overall dessert experience without overwhelming it.
7. Classic Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw can balance out sweetness, making it an unexpected but delightful pairing.
8. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These sweet treats bring another layer of decadence to your dessert table while adding visual appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Key Lime Pie Bars can be straightforward, but certain mistakes can ruin your dessert. Here are common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in the filling. Always let it come to room temperature.
• Overbaking the crust: Baking too long can make the crust hard and unappetizing. Keep an eye on it and remove when lightly golden.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not allowing the bars to chill affects their texture. Give them at least 2-4 hours in the fridge for best results.
• Not measuring lime juice accurately: Too much or too little lime juice can alter the flavor. Use a measuring cup for precision.
• Ignoring freshness of ingredients: Using old or expired key limes can result in an off taste. Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Key Lime Pie Bars

• Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Key Lime Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a non-stick pan over low heat, gently warming for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Key Lime Pie Bars:

What are Key Lime Pie Bars?

Key Lime Pie Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery crust topped with a creamy, tart lime filling.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, you can substitute regular lime juice if key limes aren’t available, though the flavor may vary slightly.

How do I know when my Key Lime Pie Bars are done baking?

The bars should be set but not brown on top. A slight jiggle in the center is normal as they will firm up while cooling.

Can I customize my Key Lime Pie Bars recipe?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruit to enhance flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

Key Lime Pie Bars are a gorgeous dessert that combines tangy flavors with a creamy texture, making them perfect for any occasion. They are easy to customize with toppings or variations, ensuring everyone finds something to love. Try making these bars today and enjoy every delightful bite!