These Key Lime Pie Bars are refreshing and zesty! With a buttery graham cracker crust and smooth lime filling, they taste like a sunshine-filled day.
Honestly, I can’t resist their bright flavor. They’re perfect for sharing at gatherings—or for enjoying all by yourself! 🍰 Just be ready to fight off your friends for the last piece!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These give the crust its signature flavor. If you don’t have graham crackers, try crushed digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafers for a slightly different twist.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds rich sweetness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut condensed milk. It’s sweet and complements the lime nicely.
Key Lime Juice: Fresh key limes are best for true flavor, but regular lime juice works too. If you can only find bottled juice, choose one that’s 100% lime juice without additives.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This provides a luscious topping. If you want a lighter version, you can use whipped coconut cream instead for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Set Filling?
Getting the filling just right takes a little care. It should be set but not overbaked. Follow these tips for success:
- Mix your filling ingredients until smooth but don’t overwhip, or it can become too airy.
- Watch the baking time closely—remove it when it’s slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to set as it cools.
- Cool it to room temperature before chilling. This will help it firm up nicely in the fridge.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Filling:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- Zest of 2 limes
- 3 large egg yolks
For The Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Lime zest for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, plus chilling time of at least 2 hours. In total, you’re looking at about 2 hours and 40 minutes, including cooling and chilling. Perfect for a refreshing treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a medium bowl and mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter together. Stir until everything is well combined, and then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish to form an even crust. Bake it for 10 minutes, then take it out and let it cool.
2. Make the Filling:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, lime zest, and egg yolks. Keep whisking until the mixture is nice and smooth. Once it’s ready, pour this creamy filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Pop it back in the oven for another 15 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
3. Chill and Add Topping:
Take the baking dish out of the oven and let it cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours so it can chill completely and firm up. When you’re ready to serve, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the chilled lime filling evenly. Finally, garnish with lime zest, cut into squares, and enjoy your delicious Key Lime Pie Bars!
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Absolutely! If you can’t find key limes, regular limes will work just fine. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious. Just remember to adjust the lime zest accordingly, as regular limes may be larger.
How to Store Leftover Key Lime Pie Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also cover the baking dish with plastic wrap if you prefer. Just be sure to re-chill before serving for the best texture!
Can I Make the Crust Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the graham cracker crust and bake it, then let it cool completely. Store it covered at room temperature for up to a day or refrigerate it for longer storage before adding your filling.
What If the Filling Doesn’t Set Properly?
If the filling is still too jiggly after the baking time, it may need a few extra minutes in the oven. Keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking. If it doesn’t seem to set at all, consider chilling it longer in the refrigerator, as it will firm up as it cools.
