These Key Lime Pie Bars are a zesty treat with a creamy lime filling on a buttery crust. They’re refreshing and perfect for sunny days!
I love how easy these bars are to make. Just mix, bake, and chill! Plus, they’re great for sharing—but be careful, they might disappear fast! 🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These create the pie’s base. If you don’t have graham crackers, try using digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies for a different flavor.
Cream Cheese: Essential for creaminess! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat than regular cream cheese and works just as well.
Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed juice gives the best flavor. If you can’t find key limes, regular limes are a decent substitute, but the taste will be slightly different. Bottled key lime juice is an option too if you’re in a rush.
Eggs: They help to stabilize the filling. If you’re vegan or need an egg substitute, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for each egg.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure the Filling Sets Just Right?
Getting the perfect filling texture is key! The trick is to not overmix after adding the eggs. Here’s how to achieve a smooth, creamy texture:
- Start with softened cream cheese; it blends easier.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth—no lumps!
- Add lime juice and zest next, blending well.
- Add eggs one by one, mixing gently. Check the consistency after each addition.
- When baking, pull the bars out when the center is still slightly jiggly; it will firm up while cooling.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For The Filling:
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 2 large eggs
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Lime zest for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need 30 minutes for baking. Lastly, don’t forget to chill the bars in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving. All in all, you’ll spend about 45 minutes of hands-on time, but your patience will be rewarded with delicious key lime pie bars!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for your delicious bars!
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until everything is well combined and looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan to create a nice crust. Pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until it turns slightly golden. When done, take the crust out and let it cool for a bit.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until it’s creamy and smooth. This should take just a couple of minutes. Next, squeeze in the key lime juice and sprinkle in the lime zest, mixing until everything is nicely blended. Don’t forget to pause and taste it—you want that tangy flavor!
4. Add the Eggs:
Now, carefully add the eggs, one at a time, to the cream cheese mixture. Be sure to mix well after each addition until the mixture is completely smooth. Just a quick note: don’t overmix, or your filling may not set properly!
5. Combine and Bake:
Pour the fluffy filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread it evenly. Slide the pan back into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The filling should look set but still have a little jiggle in the center when you take it out—this means it’s just right! Allow it to cool to room temperature.
6. Chill and Serve:
Once it’s cooled, pop the bars in the fridge and let them chill for at least 2 hours (or even longer if you can wait!). When you’re ready to enjoy, slice the bars into squares. Top each piece with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest for that extra zing. Enjoy your delicious Key Lime Pie Bars!
Can I Use a Different Type of Crust?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of graham crackers, you can use crushed shortbread cookies or even an Oreo cookie crust for a chocolate twist. Just follow the same method: combine the cookie crumbs with melted butter and sugar, then press into the baking pan and bake.
What Can I Substitute for Key Lime Juice?
If you can’t find key limes, you can use regular lime juice as a substitute. For a similar flavor profile, mix one part lemon juice with three parts lime juice. Alternatively, bottled key lime juice can also work in a pinch—just check for brands with no added sugars or preservatives for the best taste!
How to Store Leftover Key Lime Pie Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 4-5 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
How Can I Enhance the Flavor of the Filling?
To give your filling an extra flavor boost, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a hint of coconut extract. Both will complement the lime beautifully. Just mix it in with the cream cheese and sugar at the beginning for an evenly distributed flavor!
