Key Lime Pie Bars are the perfect fusion of tangy citrus flavor and creamy indulgence, capturing the essence of a classic key lime pie in a convenient, handheld form. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, zesty lime filling, these bars make a refreshing dessert for warm days, summer gatherings, or any time you crave something sweet yet light. These bars are incredibly easy to prepare and deliver a delightful balance of tart and sweet, with a silky texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking to indulge in a homemade treat, Key Lime Pie Bars are sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. The vibrant flavor of key lime juice brings a tropical flair to each bite, while the simplicity of the recipe makes it an accessible dessert for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
⅓ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
4 large egg yolks
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
½ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
1 tablespoon lime zest (optional, for enhanced flavor)
For Garnish (Optional):
Whipped cream
Lime slices or zest
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. - Prepare the Crust
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir the mixture until the crumbs are fully coated and resemble wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a compact crust layer. - Bake the Crust
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling. - Make the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks until slightly thickened. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined and creamy. Gradually whisk in the key lime juice and lime zest, blending the mixture until smooth and uniform. - Pour and Bake
Pour the lime filling over the pre-baked crust, using a spatula to smooth out the surface evenly. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15–18 minutes, or until the filling is just set and slightly firm to the touch. It should not jiggle in the center. - Cool and Chill
Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place them in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours to allow the filling to fully set and enhance the flavor. - Slice and Serve
After chilling, use the edges of the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares or rectangles, wiping the knife clean between slices for neat edges. Garnish each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of lime or a sprinkle of zest if desired. - Enjoy
Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a great make-ahead dessert.