Easy Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe

If you’re a fan of key lime pie, then you’re going to love these Easy Key Lime Pie Bars. They offer all the classic flavors of a traditional key lime pie—tangy, sweet, and refreshing—packed into bite-sized bars. These bars are the perfect balance of tart lime filling and a buttery graham cracker crust, making them ideal for serving at parties, BBQs, or as a refreshing treat any time of year. Plus, this recipe is simple and straightforward, ensuring that you can whip up a batch with minimal effort.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe will guide you through the process of making these zesty treats that will surely impress your friends and family.

What Are Key Lime Pie Bars?

Key lime pie bars are essentially a variation of the classic key lime pie but in a more portable form. Instead of making a full pie, the key lime filling is poured over a graham cracker crust and then baked in a rectangular dish. Once baked and cooled, the dessert is sliced into squares or bars, making them easy to serve. They have a rich, tangy key lime filling that is silky and smooth, perfectly complemented by a crunchy, sweet graham cracker crust. These bars are often garnished with whipped cream, lime zest, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra flair.

Ingredients List for Easy Key Lime Pie Bars

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these refreshing bars:

For the Graham Cracker Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: The base of the dessert, providing a sweet, crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust together.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Gives the crust its rich flavor and helps it hold together.

For the Key Lime Filling:

• 2 (14 oz) cans sweetened condensed milk: The foundation of the creamy, sweet-tart filling.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds a slight tang and creamy texture to balance the sweetness.
• ¾ cup key lime juice (from about 20-25 key limes, or use bottled key lime juice for convenience): Provides the classic tart flavor that defines key lime pie.
• Zest of 2 key limes: Adds extra lime flavor and a burst of freshness.

For Garnish (Optional):

• Whipped cream: To balance the tartness with a bit of sweetness and creaminess.
• Lime zest or lime slices: For a beautiful presentation and a pop of color.
• Powdered sugar: A light dusting for added sweetness and visual appeal.

Substitutions and Variations

These key lime pie bars are incredibly versatile. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace the sweetened condensed milk and sour cream with coconut milk-based alternatives, though the flavor will change slightly.
• Lemon or Lime Bars: If key limes aren’t available, use regular lime juice or swap in lemon juice for a lemon-lime variation.
• Coconut Crust: Mix in ¼ cup of shredded coconut with the graham cracker crumbs for a tropical twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into making these delicious key lime pie bars. The process is straightforward, and the results are worth every step.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.

Step 3: Press the Crust into the Pan

Transfer the graham cracker mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crumbs firmly into the pan, creating an even layer. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Key Lime Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, and key lime zest until smooth and well combined. The mixture will be thick and creamy.

Step 5: Pour the Filling Over the Crust

Once the graham cracker crust has cooled slightly, pour the key lime filling over the top. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the crust, ensuring that the filling reaches all the edges.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The edges may be slightly puffed, but the filling should not brown. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool to room temperature.

Step 7: Chill the Bars

Once the bars have cooled to room temperature, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours (or overnight). Chilling helps the filling set completely, making it easier to slice the bars cleanly.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

After chilling, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and slice them into squares or rectangles. Garnish with whipped cream, lime zest, or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick summary of the process:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Make the crust by combining graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press it into the pan and bake for 8-10 minutes.
3. Prepare the filling by whisking together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, and lime zest.
4. Pour the filling over the baked crust and spread it evenly.
5. Bake the bars for 15-18 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Chill the bars in the fridge for at least 2 hours to set.
7. Slice and serve, garnishing with whipped cream and lime zest if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making key lime pie bars is simple, but here are a few tips to avoid common pitfalls:

• Not pressing the crust firmly: Make sure to press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the pan so it holds together when sliced.
• Overbaking the filling: The filling should still be a little jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will continue to set as it cools.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the bars is crucial for the filling to fully set. Don’t rush this step, or the bars may be too soft to slice neatly.
• Using too much lime juice: Stick to the recommended amount of key lime juice. Too much liquid can make the filling runny.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Key lime pie bars are naturally beautiful with their vibrant lime color, but here are a few ways to serve and present them that will impress your guests even more.

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars

• With whipped cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream to each bar for extra creaminess and sweetness.
• Topped with lime zest: Garnish each bar with a sprinkle of freshly grated lime zest for a pop of color and flavor.
• Paired with a cup of coffee or tea: The bright, citrusy flavors of the bars pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or iced tea.

Presentation Ideas for Key Lime Pie Bars

• Decorate with lime slices: Garnish the serving platter with thin slices of lime for a fresh and festive touch.
• Serve on a dessert platter: Arrange the bars neatly on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and lime zest for a beautiful presentation at a party or gathering.
• Mini versions: For a fun twist, use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized key lime bars that are perfect for a party or buffet-style event.

Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe Tips

• Use fresh lime juice: Fresh key lime juice is best for authentic flavor, but if you can’t find key limes, bottled key lime juice is a good alternative.
• Chill overnight: For the best results, chill the bars overnight. This allows the filling to fully set, making them easier to slice.
• Cut with a warm knife: Run a sharp knife under warm water and dry it off before slicing the bars. This helps create clean cuts without sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes! If key limes aren’t available, you can use regular limes. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I make key lime pie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! Key lime pie bars are a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

How long do key lime pie bars last?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage (up

to 2 months). Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I freeze key lime pie bars?

Yes! To freeze, place the sliced bars on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the bars to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Conclusion

These Easy Key Lime Pie Bars are the perfect combination of sweet, tart, and creamy. The buttery graham cracker crust paired with the tangy key lime filling creates a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a summer treat, or simply indulging in a craving, these bars are sure to be a hit. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of sunshine in every bite!

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