Description
These Key Lime Pie Bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, tangy key lime filling, baked to perfection and topped with optional fresh whipped cream. Perfect for a refreshing dessert that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets, crushed)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
Filling
- 2 14-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup key lime juice
- Zest of 2 regular limes or 4 key limes
Topping (Optional)
- Fresh whipped cream
Instructions
- Make Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking pan to form the crust.
- Bake Crust: Place the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10 minutes. Once baked, remove from oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, then mix in the key lime juice and lime zest. Continue mixing until the filling is smooth and fully combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the prepared filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pie bars from the oven and allow them to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours to let the filling set thoroughly.
- Serve: Once chilled, cut the bars into 12 servings. Optionally, top each bar with fresh whipped cream before serving for an extra creamy texture and decoration.
Notes
- Use fresh key lime juice for the authentic tart flavor, or regular lime juice if key limes are unavailable.
- Allow the crust to cool fully before adding the filling to prevent the filling from melting or becoming runny.
- For best slicing results, chill the bars overnight and use a sharp knife warmed under hot water before cutting.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Whipped cream topping is optional but adds a lovely creamy contrast to the tart filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
