These Key Lime Pie Bars are a tasty twist on the classic dessert! With a zesty lime filling and a buttery graham cracker crust, they’re both refreshing and sweet.
Honestly, they disappear so fast at my house, it’s like they’re magic! I love cutting them into small squares for a perfect snack. Trust me, you’ll be making these again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: This is the base for your crust. If you can’t find graham crackers, consider using crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a different flavor twist.
Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter gives you better control over the saltiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, melted coconut oil or vegan butter can work well.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds creaminess and sweetness. If you’re dairy-free, try using coconut condensed milk instead; it adds a nice hint of coconut flavor, too!
Fresh Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed juice is best for brightness. If you can’t find key limes, Persian limes are a good substitute. Just keep in mind they’ll be a tad less tangy!
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and balances the tartness of the lime. Plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking to cut calories or want a lower-fat option.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Filling Consistency?
Getting the right filling consistency is key in making these bars delicious. Here’s how to make it smooth and set perfectly:
- Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, and lime juice thoroughly to avoid lumps.
- Incorporate the egg yolks one at a time, ensuring each is fully mixed in before adding the next. This helps create a creamy texture.
- After pouring the filling over the crust, keep an eye on it in the oven. The filling should be set with a slight jiggle in the center; this is perfect so it doesn’t overcook.
Cooling is important too! Allow it to cool at room temperature before refrigerating, as it helps it set properly.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For The Filling:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (about 4-5 key limes)
- Zest of 2 key limes
- 3 large egg yolks
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Lime zest
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 30 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional hour for cooling and 2-3 hours for chilling. In total, you’re looking at around 4 hours until you can dig in, but most of that time is just waiting for them to chill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and grease it lightly so your bars don’t stick. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar together. Stir until everything is well combined.
2. Baking the Crust:
Next, press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your greased baking dish to create an even layer. Pop it in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the crust turns slightly golden. Once done, take it out and let it cool for a little while.
3. Mixing the Filling:
While the crust is cooling, let’s make the filling! In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, and the egg yolks. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
4. Baking the Filling:
Now, pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s set but still slightly jiggly in the middle. Time to take it out again!
5. Cooling and Chilling:
Let the bars cool at room temperature for about an hour. After that, it’s time to chill! Place them in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours until they are fully set and chilled.
6. Serving:
Once they’re nice and cold, it’s time to enjoy! Cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Top each one with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest for that extra touch. Enjoy your tasty Key Lime Pie Bars!
Can I Substitute Regular Limes for Key Limes?
Absolutely! While key limes have a unique flavor, regular limes can be used as a substitute if key limes are hard to find. Just keep in mind that the taste may be slightly different; using fresh lime juice and zest will still yield delicious results!
How Can I Make This Gluten-Free?
To make these key lime pie bars gluten-free, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or find an alternative crust recipe made from crushed almonds or oats. Just ensure that the other ingredients you’re using are gluten-free as well.
Can I Freeze These Bars?
Yes, you can freeze key lime pie bars! After they have completely chilled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to one week. You can also add whipped cream just before serving to keep it fluffy and light!
