There’s something wonderfully straightforward about making a classic dessert that pairs perfectly with both relaxed evenings and joyful gatherings. This recipe brings the refreshing taste of key lime pie into easy-to-handle bar form, making it ideal for sharing or savoring during quiet moments. With its simple steps and comforting flavor profile, this recipe is not only practical but also delivers a satisfying treat that balances sweetness with zesty brightness. Let’s dive in and create something delicious together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe Key Lime Pie Bars

These Key Lime Pie Bars combine ease and dependability, providing a delightful dessert that you can count on. The balanced flavor, featuring both zesty lime and creamy richness, delivers comfort that’s perfect for any occasion. Their practical everyday value means you can enjoy them at breakfast, as snacks, or even during family meals.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin (if using whole graham crackers)
• Electric mixer (for whipping cream)

Ingredients

• 24 graham crackers (about 7oz/200g) or 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (for structure and a sweet base)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) packed light brown sugar (adds sweetness and moisture)
• ⅓ cup (75g) unsalted butter (adds richness and binds crust)
• ¾ cup (6oz/170ml) sweetened condensed milk (provides creaminess and sweetness)
• 1 large whole egg (adds structure)
• 2 large egg yolks (adds richness and creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract (enhances overall flavor)
• ½ cup (120ml) lime juice (provides essential tartness)
• ⅓ cup (80ml) full fat yogurt (for creaminess and tang)
• Zest of 1 lime (adds aromatic citrus flavor)
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar (sweetens the filling)
• 1 cup cold heavy cream (for making whipped cream topping)
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar (sweetens whipped cream)
• Lime zest to garnish (for a fresh finish)

How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars

Step 1. Start by preparing the crust. If you are using whole graham crackers, crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or a food processor until you have about 1 ½ cups. Combine these crumbs in a bowl with the brown sugar and melted unsalted butter, mixing until the mixture resembles wet sand. The mixture should hold together when squeezed. Once mixed well, transfer it to a greased 9×9-inch baking pan and press it evenly across the bottom.

Step 2. Now, prepare the filling by combining the sweetened condensed milk, whole egg, egg yolks, vanilla extract, lime juice, full-fat yogurt, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Use a whisk to blend everything together smoothly, ensuring there are no lumps and the mixture is well integrated. You want a consistent liquid that has a bright aroma from the lime juice and zest, creating a cohesive filling.

Step 3. Once your filling is ready, pour it over the prepared crust in the baking pan. Spread it evenly so that it covers the entire crust without any gaps. Take a moment to enjoy the vibrant color of the filling, as it should look creamy and slightly tangy. This is a key step in ensuring that every bite has a balance of crust and filling.

Step 4. Now it’s time to bake. Place the baking pan in a preheated oven and bake until the filling is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. You will notice a slight firming as it cooks, which should take about 20-25 minutes. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack before refrigerating for a few hours.

Step 5. After the bars have been chilled, it’s time to make the whipped cream topping. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the cold heavy cream on medium speed using an electric mixer until it begins to thicken. Once it starts to hold soft peaks, add the powdered sugar. Continue beating until you obtain stiff peaks, ensuring it’s fluffy yet stable. The consistency should be spreadable and hold its shape.

Step 6. Spread the freshly whipped cream over the chilled Key Lime Pie Bars, ensuring an even layer on top. You can use a spatula to create gentle swirls for a decorative effect. After adding the whipped cream, sprinkle additional lime zest over the top for a fresh and inviting finish. This not only enhances the presentation but also provides a hint of tartness in each slice.

Step 7. Finally, slice the bars into squares or rectangles for serving. Each piece should be neat, with distinct layers of crust, filling, and whipped cream. The garnish of lime zest adds a touch of color and brightness, inviting everyone to enjoy these delicious treats.

Serving Suggestions

These Key Lime Pie Bars are versatile enough that you might find yourself reaching for them at various times during the day. They can easily serve as a delightful breakfast option, offering a bright start with a cup of coffee or tea. As snacks, they provide a perfect balance of tangy and sweet between meals. During family gatherings or quiet evenings at home, these bars shine as a shared dessert. And if you have leftovers, they store well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy them over a few days.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to press the crust firmly into the pan for a sturdy base.
• Allow the bars to chill completely before cutting for the best texture.
• Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor; pre-bottled juice may alter the taste.
• When beating the heavy cream, be careful not to overmix to avoid a grainy texture.
• Garnish the bars just before serving for a fresh look and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Cooling the Base: Skipping the cooling process can lead to a soggy crust, as warm filling may not set properly. Always let the crust cool completely before adding the filling.
2. Using Old Ingredients: Using stale graham crackers or old eggs can affect the flavor and texture. Always check the freshness of your ingredients for the best outcome.
3. Overmixing the Filling: Mixing the filling too vigorously can create air bubbles, which may result in a puffy texture. Gently whisk the ingredients together instead.
4. Not Chilling Long Enough: Cutting the bars before they’re fully chilled can cause them to crumble. Allow adequate time for the bars to set in the refrigerator for clean cuts.
5. Whipping Cream Incorrectly: Overbeating the cream can lead to a butter-like consistency. Stop mixing once stiff peaks form to maintain a light texture.
6. Skipping Zest: Omitting lime zest can diminish the overall flavor. The zest adds aromatic notes that enhance the dessert, so don’t skip it.

Variations & Substitutions

For a fun twist, consider adding a swirl of fruit puree, like raspberry or strawberry, into the filling before baking. This can give you a lovely color contrast and added flavor. Additionally, you can replace the yogurt with sour cream for a different tang, or adjust the lime juice to taste based on personal preference.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers at room temperature for a short period, but ideally refrigerate them to preserve freshness. These Key Lime Pie Bars can last in the fridge for up to five days. If you wish to freeze them, use an airtight container to maintain texture; they can be frozen for up to three months. For the best texture, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 16g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 130mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are great for making ahead. Prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld and the bars to set properly.

How long does it last in the fridge?

When properly stored in the refrigerator, the bars can last up to five days, making them a fantastic dessert for planned gatherings.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Absolutely! These Key Lime Pie Bars can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

What can I substitute for one ingredient?

If you need to substitute, consider using sour cream in place of the yogurt for a similar tangy flavor profile.

Why didn’t my recipe turn out as expected?

Common issues may arise from variations in ingredient freshness or baking time. Ensure your ingredients are fresh and follow the baking instructions closely for the best results.

Final Thoughts

Making these Key Lime Pie Bars offers a satisfying experience that blends a refreshing flavor with a creamy texture. As you enjoy the process, you’ll find comfort in creating this straightforward and beloved dessert. Even as you share it with friends and family, the simple joy these bars bring will certainly shine through.

Key Lime Pie Bars

These Key Lime Pie Bars bring the refreshing taste of classic key lime pie into easy-to-handle bar form, perfect for sharing or enjoying quietly.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 bars

Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the crust

• 24 pieces graham crackers or about 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar adds sweetness and moisture
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter adds richness and binds crust

See also  Keto Pecan Pie Sugar Free

For the filling

• ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk provides creaminess and sweetness
• 1 large whole egg adds structure
• 2 large egg yolks adds richness and creaminess
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract enhances overall flavor
• ½ cup lime juice provides essential tartness
• ⅓ cup full fat yogurt for creaminess and tang
• Zest of 1 lime lime zest adds aromatic citrus flavor
• ¼ cup granulated sugar sweetens the filling

For the topping

• 1 cup cold heavy cream for making whipped cream topping
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar sweetens whipped cream
• to taste lime zest for garnish

Instructions

 

Preparation of the Crust

• Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor until you have about 1 ½ cups.
• Combine crumbs with brown sugar and melted butter, mixing until it resembles wet sand. Press into a greased 9x9-inch baking pan.

Preparation of the Filling

• In a mixing bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, whole egg, egg yolks, vanilla extract, lime juice, yogurt, and granulated sugar.
• Whisk until smooth and without lumps, ensuring a well-integrated mixture.

Baking

• Pour the filling over the prepared crust and spread evenly.
• Bake in a preheated oven until set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center, about 20-25 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack, then refrigerate for a few hours.

Whipped Cream Topping

• In a clean mixing bowl, beat cold heavy cream until it starts to thicken.
• Add powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Spread over chilled bars.
• Garnish with additional lime zest for a fresh finish.

Serving

• Slice the bars into squares or rectangles, displaying distinct layers of crust, filling, and topping.

Notes

Store in the fridge for up to five days or freeze for up to three months.

Keyword Bars, dessert, Easy Dessert, key lime, Key Lime Pie Bars