These Key Lime Pie Bars are a tasty treat, with a zesty lime filling on a crunch graham cracker crust. They’re sweet, tangy, and absolutely delightful!
Making these bars is a breeze—just mix, bake, and chill! I love serving them at summer parties; they always disappear faster than I can say “pie”! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These give the pie bar its signature crunch. If you can’t find them, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies work well as substitutes.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient makes the filling creamy and sweet. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut cream can be a tasty alternative, though it’ll give a different flavor.
Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed juice really enhances the flavor. If key limes are hard to get, regular limes can substitute, but the taste will be a bit sharper.
Heavy Whipping Cream: For the topping, heavy cream offers richness. You could use a non-dairy whipped topping if you’re avoiding dairy altogether!
How Do You Ensure a Perfect Crust?
The crust is the base of the pie bars and needs to be just right! Make sure to mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar fully so it holds together when pressed into the pan.
- Preheat your oven first to get an even bake.
- Press the crust firmly into the pan, using the bottom of a measuring cup for evenness.
- Bake until golden brown to ensure it’s crispy. It should feel a bit firm to the touch when you take it out.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For The Filling:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (about 4-6 key limes)
- 4 large egg yolks
For The Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 key lime, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and cooking, plus at least 2 hours for chilling. You’ll spend some time mixing and baking, and then just let those lovely bars set in the refrigerator. It’s simple and so worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar together until everything is well combined. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to create an even layer. Bake it in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, then take it out and let it cool for a little while.
2. Making the Filling:
In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh key lime juice, and egg yolks until the mixture is smooth and blended perfectly. Once it’s ready, pour this delicious filling over your cooled crust.
3. Baking the Filling:
Pop the pan back into the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set and the edges may puff up a bit—totally normal! After baking, take it out and let it cool to room temperature.
4. Preparing the Topping:
In a clean bowl, add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat it all together until soft peaks form. This will make your topping nice and fluffy!
5. Assembling the Bars:
Once the filling is completely cool, spread the whipped cream topping evenly over it. Don’t forget to garnish with the zest of one key lime for a pop of flavor and color!
6. Chilling and Serving:
Now, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours. This helps them set completely. When you’re ready to serve, cut them into squares and enjoy your tasty Key Lime Pie Bars chilled. They’ll be a hit!
Can I Use Other Citrus Juices Instead of Key Lime Juice?
Absolutely! If you can’t find key limes, you can substitute with regular lime juice or even lemon juice for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that using regular limes might result in a slightly different taste, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Key Lime Pie Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you have an uncut portion, it’s best to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep the topping from getting soggy!
Can I Make the Crust Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the crust a day in advance. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge. Cover it tightly to avoid any moisture, which can make it soggy.
What If My Whipped Cream Doesn’t Form Peaks?
If your whipped cream isn’t forming soft peaks, make sure your heavy whipping cream is cold and that you’re using an electric mixer on high speed. If it still doesn’t whip up, it might be best to start with a fresh cream, as it could be past its date. You can also add a bit more powdered sugar or a touch of cornstarch to help stabilize it.
