What ingredients are needed for key lime pie bars?

For the crust: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter. For the filling: 4 ounces softened cream cheese, 4 large egg yolks, 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk, ½ cup key lime juice, and 2 teaspoons lime zest.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes in key lime pie bars?

Yes, regular limes can be used as a substitute; however, key limes are typically sweeter and more aromatic. Adjust sweetness slightly if using regular limes to balance tartness.

Is bottled key lime juice a good substitute for fresh juice?

Bottled key lime juice, such as Nellie & Joe’s, is a convenient and reliable alternative that maintains authentic flavor and acidity, making it suitable for this recipe.

How long should key lime pie bars chill before they are ready to serve?

After baking, cool the bars at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours. Longer chilling improves firmness and flavor meld.

Key Lime Pie Bars: Easy Recipe for Dessert Craving

Name: Simple and Delicious Key Lime Pie Bar Recipe for Your Next Dessert Craving
Prep time: 3 h 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: PT-486502H45M16S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets); 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 4 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese, softened; 4 large egg yolks; 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup key lime juice; 2 teaspoons lime zest (about 1 regular lime or 2 key limes); Fresh whipped cream (optional); Lime slices (optional)

Description

🥧 These key lime pie bars offer a delightful balance of sweet and tart, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
🌟 With an easy-to-make crust and creamy filling, they’re sure to satisfy your dessert cravings efficiently.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
4 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese, softened
4 large egg yolks
14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup key lime juice
2 teaspoons lime zest (about 1 regular lime or 2 key limes)
Fresh whipped cream (optional)
Lime slices (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. For the crust, finely crush the graham crackers using a blender or food processor. Mix the crumbs with sugar and then stir in the melted butter until the mixture forms a sandy texture. Lightly press it into the bottom of the pan.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes and let it cool slightly.
4. For the filling, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the egg yolks and beat well. Mix in the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until fully combined. Briefly whisk by hand to ensure smoothness.
5. Pour the filling evenly over the warm crust. Bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.
6. Cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 3 hours.
7. Use the parchment overhang to lift out the bars, cut into squares, and garnish with whipped cream and lime slices if desired.

Notes

🍋 Use bottled key lime juice or juice about 20 small key limes for convenience.
🥣 Press the crust lightly and do not pack too hard to maintain its texture.
🔪 For a neat presentation, clean your knife between cuts.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooling and chilling: 3 hours
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 153
Sugar: 15g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 1g