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Key Lime Pie Bars

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  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes (includes chill time)
  • Yield: 9–12 bars
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Key Lime Pie Bars are creamy, tangy, and irresistibly refreshing. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth lime custard filling, these easy dessert bars pack all the tropical flavor of classic key lime pie into portable, sliceable squares—perfect for spring, summer, or anytime you need a bright citrus treat.


Ingredients

  • For the crust:
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Unsalted butter, melted
  • Granulated sugar
  • For the filling:
  • Sweetened condensed milk
  • Key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
  • Lime zest
  • Egg yolks
  • Vanilla extract (optional)
  • Optional toppings:
  • Whipped cream
  • Lime zest or thin lime slices
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

  2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.

  3. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then cool slightly.

  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, zest, egg yolks, and vanilla (if using) until smooth.

  5. Pour filling over the crust and spread evenly.

  6. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the center is just set.

  7. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.

  8. Slice into bars and top with whipped cream, lime zest, or powdered sugar before serving.


Notes

  • Substitute vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for the crust if desired.
  • Add shredded coconut to the crust for a coconut-lime twist.
  • For a tropical flavor, stir in a tablespoon of pineapple juice to the filling.
  • Use gluten-free graham crackers for a GF version.
  • Best made ahead and chilled overnight for easy slicing and the best flavor.