Key Lime Pie Bars
These key lime pie bars are a delightful combination of tangy lime filling and buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 15 sheets 15 sheets graham crackers or 30 squares for a crumbly crust
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp granulated sugar to add sweetness
- 1 pinch Pinch salt to enhance flavor
- 6 tbsp 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted for richness
Filling Ingredients
- 6 oz 6 oz original cream cheese, room temperature for creaminess
- 14 oz 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk to provide sweetness and moisture
- 4 large 4 large egg yolks for binding
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp lime zest for aromatic zestiness
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup key lime juice or regular lime juice to contribute tartness
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp vanilla extract for depth of flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by preheating your oven to get it ready for baking.
- Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs.
- Combine the crumbs with granulated sugar and a pinch of salt.
- Pour the melted butter into the crumb mixture and mix until well combined.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Bake the crust until it is just lightly golden, about 10 minutes.
Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Blend in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined.
- Add the egg yolks, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until everything is well incorporated and smooth.
- Pour the filling over the baked crust and spread it evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake again until the filling is set, about 15-20 minutes.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least a few hours.
- Slice the bars into squares or rectangles before serving.
Notes
Chill the bars for several hours for the best texture and flavor. Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.