Tart, creamy, and refreshingly sweet, these Key Lime Pie Bars are a zesty crowd-pleaser—perfect for summer cravings and dessert lovers!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright, tangy flavor with just the right amount of sweetness
- Easy to make with simple, everyday ingredients
- Great make-ahead dessert for gatherings
- No special equipment required
- A creamy, smooth filling with a crisp, buttery crust
- Elegant presentation in easy-to-serve bars
- Perfect for spring and summer celebrations
- Light, refreshing finish to any meal
- Versatile—customize with other citrus flavors
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 sleeve (about 24) graham crackers, crushed into fine crumbs
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup full-fat plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt/sour cream)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- Zest of 1 lime
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- Additional lime zest, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a food processor, pulse graham crackers until finely crushed. Add brown sugar and melted butter; pulse until combined.
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and reduce the temperature to 325°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg, and egg yolks.
- Add yogurt, sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully combined.
- Pour the filling over the warm crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- For the topping, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread whipped cream over the chilled bars and garnish with lime zest.
- Use the parchment to lift the bars out of the pan, cut into squares, and serve chilled.
Servings And Timing
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings: 16 bars
Calories per serving: 280 kcal
Variations
- Lemon Pie Bars: Swap lime juice and zest with lemon
- Coconut Lime Bars: Add shredded coconut to the crust or filling
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers
- Key Lime Cheesecake Bars: Add 4 oz cream cheese to the filling
- Meringue Topping: Replace whipped cream with torched meringue
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
Freeze without whipped topping for up to 2 months
Thaw in the refrigerator before serving
Add whipped cream topping just before serving for best texture
FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
How do I know when the filling is set?
The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid. It will firm up as it chills.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for making a day in advance and chilling overnight.
What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut for neat bars.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking times slightly.
Can I make this crust without a food processor?
Yes, place crackers in a zip bag and crush with a rolling pin.
What can I use instead of yogurt?
Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even crème fraîche all work well.
Do I have to use whipped cream topping?
No, it’s optional but adds a creamy contrast to the tart filling.
Can I use a different crust base?
Yes, try a shortbread crust for a twist on the classic.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely, it’s sweet, tart, and fun to eat!
Conclusion
Key Lime Pie Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert with their zesty citrus flavor, smooth filling, and crunchy crust. Easy to prepare and perfect for any event, this make-ahead treat delivers a refreshing finish every time.
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Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tart, creamy, and refreshingly sweet, these Key Lime Pie Bars are a zesty crowd-pleaser—perfect for summer cravings and dessert lovers!
Ingredients
For the crust:
1 sleeve (about 24) graham crackers, crushed into fine crumbs
2 tablespoons brown sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
1 large egg
2 large egg yolks
¼ cup full-fat plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt/sour cream)
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup fresh lime juice
Zest of 1 lime
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the topping:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
Additional lime zest, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- Pulse graham crackers in a food processor. Add brown sugar and butter; pulse to combine.
- Press mixture into pan; bake for 15 minutes. Lower oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Whisk filling ingredients until smooth; pour over crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until set but slightly jiggly. Cool completely.
- Chill for 4 hours or overnight.
- Beat heavy cream and powdered sugar to stiff peaks; spread on chilled bars.
- Garnish with lime zest, slice, and serve chilled.
Notes
- Yogurt adds creaminess and slight tang—Greek yogurt or sour cream can be substituted.
- Make a day ahead for best texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American