Description
These Key Lime Pie Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a tangy and creamy key lime filling, baked to perfection and topped with optional fresh whipped cream. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, these bars make a refreshing dessert that’s easy to prepare and serve for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets, crushed)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
Filling
- 2 14-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup key lime juice
- Zest of 2 regular limes or 4 key limes
Topping (Optional)
- Fresh whipped cream
Instructions
- Make Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until all crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking pan to form the crust.
- Bake Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for 10 minutes until it is set and lightly toasted. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest, mixing continuously until the filling is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the key lime filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake at 350°F for an additional 10 minutes, just until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the filling to fully set and chill.
- Serve: Once chilled, cut the dessert into 12 bars. Optionally, top each bar with freshly whipped cream before serving for an added creamy touch.
Notes
- Using freshly squeezed key lime juice ensures the authentic tart flavor; bottled juice may alter the taste.
- Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling to prevent a soggy base.
- For cleaner slices, warm the knife under hot water and dry it before slicing the bars.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Can be made a day ahead for convenient entertaining.
