Key Lime Pie Bars are a fun twist on the classic dessert! They have a zesty lime flavor and a creamy filling, all on a buttery crust that’s super easy to make.
These bars are perfect for sharing or just enjoying while lounging at home. I can’t resist the fresh taste and often go back for seconds… or thirds! 😋
Plus, they’re simple to whip up. Just mix, bake, and chill. I love having them in the fridge for a refreshing treat anytime!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These provide a sweet and crunchy base for your pie bars. If you’re out of graham crackers, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafer cookies for a slightly different flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This creamy ingredient adds sweetness and richness. If you want a lighter option, you can use coconut milk, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
Sour Cream: This gives a nice tang to the filling. Greek yogurt makes a great substitute; it has a similar texture and tangy taste.
Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed juice is best for the most authentic flavor. If you can’t find key limes, you can use regular lime juice, though it will be less sweet.
How Do I Achieve a Perfectly Firm Filling?
To get that nice texture for your filling, focus on the mixing and baking steps. Whisk the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, lime zest, and egg yolks until everything is fully combined. This ensures a smooth filling.
- Make sure to bake the filling until it’s set but still slightly jiggly in the center. This will help it firm up as it cools.
- Let it cool to room temperature before chilling in the fridge. Patience is key here!
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
- Zest of 2 limes
- 4 large egg yolks
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lime, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 10 minutes for baking the crust, another 15 to 20 minutes for the filling, and at least 3 hours for chilling in the refrigerator. So, all in all, plan for a total of about 4 hours before you can enjoy your refreshing Key Lime Pie Bars!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This makes it easier to remove the bars later. In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your lined baking dish to form a nice, even crust.
2. Bake the Crust:
Now it’s time to bake the crust! Place it in your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden. Once it’s ready, carefully take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, freshly squeezed key lime juice, lime zest, and egg yolks. Mix until everything is smooth and well combined. Pour this delicious filling over your cooled crust and spread it out evenly.
4. Bake the Filling:
Put the baking dish back in the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes. You want the filling to be set but still a bit jiggly in the center. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Chill the Bars:
After the bars have cooled down, pop them into the refrigerator. Let them chill for at least 3 hours, or until they are nicely cold.
6. Prepare the Topping:
For the topping, whip the heavy cream in a mixing bowl along with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form—this means the cream holds its shape well!
7. Assemble and Serve:
Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled key lime filling. Don’t forget to garnish with some lime zest on top for an extra touch! Gently use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the baking dish and place them on a cutting board. Cut them into squares, and they’re ready to enjoy!
Serve your delightful Key Lime Pie Bars chilled and enjoy a slice of refreshing goodness!
Can I Substitute Regular Limes for Key Limes?
Yes, you can use regular limes if key limes are not available. The flavor will be slightly different, as key limes are more fragrant and have a unique tartness, but you’ll still get a delicious pie bar!
Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers in place of the regular graham cracker crumbs for the crust. Just check the packaging to ensure they meet your dietary needs!
How to Store Leftover Key Lime Pie Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, wait to add the whipped cream topping until you’re ready to serve to keep it fresh!
Can I Freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving, and add the whipped cream topping after thawing.
