Key Lime Pie Bars are a delightful and refreshing dessert that captures all the vibrant flavors of classic Key Lime Pie in a more convenient, handheld form. With a tangy lime filling atop a buttery graham cracker crust, these bars are ideal for warm-weather gatherings, potlucks, or when you simply crave a citrusy treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Key Lime Pie Bars offer the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, making them a hit with citrus lovers. They are easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and are great for making ahead. The creamy filling pairs beautifully with the crumbly crust, and the optional whipped topping adds an extra layer of indulgence.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
graham cracker crumbs
granulated sugar
ground cinnamon (optional)
unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
sweetened condensed milk
fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
large egg yolks
zest of lime
For the Topping (Optional):
heavy whipping cream
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
directions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang on the sides.
In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon (if using). Stir in melted butter until fully combined.
Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden brown and set. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a clean bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, egg yolks, and lime zest until smooth.
Pour the mixture over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the filling is set and edges are lightly golden.
Cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours until fully chilled and set.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping (Optional)
In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Spread or pipe onto chilled bars before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 9–12 bars, depending on the size you cut them.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 2–3 hours
Total time: About 3 hours, including chilling
Variations
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Crust Alternatives: Try using crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies instead of graham crackers for a different flavor.
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Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the crust or filling for a tropical touch.
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Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk-based condensed milk and dairy-free whipped topping.
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Extra Zing: Mix in a bit of lemon juice with the lime juice for added brightness.
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Mini Bars: Make them in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats.
storage/reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the bars (without topping) for up to 2 months. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Do not reheat—these bars are best served chilled.
FAQs
What is the difference between key limes and regular limes?
Key limes are smaller, more aromatic, and have a more intense tart flavor than regular (Persian) limes.
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor. Bottled juice can be more acidic and less fragrant.
Do I need to use a water bath when baking the filling?
No water bath is necessary for this recipe. The filling sets well with direct baking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time slightly as needed.
How do I know when the filling is set?
The filling is done when the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set—it should not jiggle much when moved.
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. Chilling the bars thoroughly also helps make cleaner cuts.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make the recipe gluten-free.
Are these bars safe for kids?
Yes, they are safe. The egg yolks are fully cooked during baking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. These bars are perfect for making a day ahead, as they need to be chilled before serving.
Do I have to use the whipped cream topping?
No, it’s optional. The bars are delicious on their own, but the topping adds a creamy touch.
Conclusion
Key Lime Pie Bars are a bright and zesty dessert that brings a slice of tropical sunshine to your table. With their smooth citrus filling and buttery crust, they are a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them plain or with a dollop of whipped cream, these bars are sure to become a favorite.
Print
Key Lime Pie Bars
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9-12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Key Lime Pie Bars are a refreshing and tangy dessert that offers all the flavors of the classic Key Lime Pie in an easy-to-serve bar form. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy citrus filling, they’re the perfect summer treat.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
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1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 graham crackers)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
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2 large egg yolks
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Zest of 1 lime
For the Topping (Optional):
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1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
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2 tablespoons powdered sugar
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment or foil, leaving overhang.
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Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and cinnamon. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
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Press into the pan to form an even layer.
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Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
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In a bowl, whisk sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, egg yolks, and lime zest until smooth.
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Pour over crust and spread evenly.
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Bake for 15-18 minutes until set and slightly golden at edges.
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Cool at room temp for 30 minutes, then chill for 2-3 hours until fully set.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping (Optional)
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Whip cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
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Spread or pipe over chilled bars before serving.
Notes
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For extra lime flavor, increase the zest slightly.
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Use bottled key lime juice if fresh key limes are unavailable.
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Bars can be made a day in advance and stored chilled.
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