why make this recipe
Key Lime Bars are a delicious treat that combines the tangy flavor of key lime with a sweet, crumbly crust. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday gatherings. They are easy to make and are sure to impress your family and friends. The bright flavor and creamy texture make them a favorite dessert for many.
how to make Key Lime Bars
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup key lime juice
- 4 large egg yolks
- Zest of 2 limes
- Whipped cream (for serving)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until it is lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, and lime zest until smooth.
- Pour this key lime mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until set.
- Let the bars cool, then refrigerate them until fully chilled.
- Cut into bars and serve with whipped cream.
how to serve Key Lime Bars
Key Lime Bars are best served chilled. Place a bar on a plate and top it with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess. You can also add a sprinkle of lime zest for a nice touch. They make a great dessert after any meal or a sweet snack during the day.
how to store Key Lime Bars
To store Key Lime Bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well before freezing.
tips to make Key Lime Bars
- Make sure to use fresh key lime juice for the best flavor. If you can’t find key limes, regular lime juice will work as well.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them for clean slices.
- If you want a thicker crust, you can increase the amount of graham cracker crumbs by ½ cup.
variation
Try adding a layer of meringue on top before baking for a different texture and flavor. You can also mix in some coconut for a tropical twist!
FAQs
1. Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Yes, regular limes can be used in place of key limes, but the flavor will be slightly different.
2. How can I make the crust more flavorful?
You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the graham cracker crumb mixture for extra flavor.
3. Can Key Lime Bars be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve them.
Key Lime Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and tangy Key Lime Bars with a sweet, crumbly crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup key lime juice
- 4 large egg yolks
- Zest of 2 limes
- Whipped cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch by 9-inch baking dish.
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until it is lightly golden.
- Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, and lime zest in another bowl until smooth.
- Pour this key lime mixture over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until set.
- Let the bars cool, then refrigerate them until fully chilled.
- Cut into bars and serve with whipped cream.
Notes
For best flavor, use fresh key lime juice. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week or frozen for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Key lime, dessert, bars, summer treat, easy dessert, lime, refreshing dessert
