Key lime pie bars are a delicious twist on the classic key lime pie. These bars capture all the bright flavors you love but come in a convenient, easy-to-serve format. With a crunchy graham cracker crust and a creamy key lime filling, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a summer barbecue, holiday gathering, or just enjoying a sweet treat at home, these bars are sure to impress.

This recipe combines sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and zesty lime flavor to create a refreshing dessert that balances tartness with sweetness. Topped with whipped cream, these bars have a light and airy finish that makes them irresistible. Plus, they are simple to make, requiring minimal prep time. So grab some key limes and get ready to whip up a dessert that everyone will love!

Why make this recipe

Making key lime pie bars is a great way to enjoy a classic dessert in a new light. These bars are simple to prepare and perfect for sharing. Often, the traditional pie can be tricky to slice, but bars make serving easy. Plus, they are great for warm weather when you want something refreshing and light. Whether you are hosting a party or just want to treat yourself, these key lime pie bars are a fantastic choice.

How to make BEST KEY LIME PIE BARS

Ingredients

• 230g graham crackers (~16 full sheets)
• 1/2 cup melted butter (113g)
• 2 cans sweetened condensed milk (28oz)
• 3/4 cup key lime juice (180g)
• 1 tbsp key lime zest (2-3 limes)
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 2/3 cup sour cream or yogurt (160g)
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, chilled (360g)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (conventional) and prepare a 9×9″ square baking pan by lining it with two perpendicular sheets of parchment paper. The parchment should rise above the top of the pan.
2. Grind the graham crackers into fine crumbs in your food processor. Mix the crumbs with the melted butter.
3. Transfer the crumb mixture to the prepared pan and press down tightly to form a crust using the back of a spoon or measuring cup.
4. Bake the crust for about 8-10 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.
5. While the crust is baking, zest and juice the key limes.
6. In a bowl, mix the lime zest, key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and sour cream (or yogurt) until combined. Start with 1/2 cup of lime juice and 1 1/2 cans of sweetened condensed milk, tasting and adjusting as desired.
7. Add the egg yolks and whisk to combine.
8. Pour the filling over the baked crust. Shake the pan gently to remove any air bubbles.
9. Bake for about 17-18 minutes at 325°F until the filling is mostly set around the edges but jiggles slightly in the center.
10. Refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to set completely.
11. When the bars are set, prepare the whipped cream topping by whisking the heavy cream with sugar until you reach stiff peaks. Be careful not to overmix.
12. Spread the whipped cream on top of the filling in the pan.
13. Carefully remove the bars from the pan by lifting the parchment paper and transfer to a cutting board.
14. Cut into squares, serve, and enjoy!

How to serve BEST KEY LIME PIE BARS

Serve these key lime pie bars chilled for a refreshing treat. They are great on their own, but you can also add extra lime zest or a slice of lime on top for decoration. These bars are a perfect dessert for summer picnics or family gatherings. Pair them with a cup of tea or lemonade for a delightful experience!

How to store BEST KEY LIME PIE BARS

Store any leftover key lime pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and freezing them for up to 2 months. Before serving, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

Tips to make BEST KEY LIME PIE BARS

• Use fresh key limes for the best flavor. They are sweeter and more aromatic than regular limes.
• When making the crust, make sure to press it firmly into the pan to avoid crumbling when cutting.
• Taste the filling before baking to adjust the sweetness or tartness to your preference.
• Don’t skip the chilling step, as it helps the bars set properly and improves the texture.

Variation

You can customize these key lime pie bars by adding fruit like raspberries or strawberries on top or mixing in a layer of fruit preserves. If you prefer a different flavor, consider substituting the key lime juice with regular lime juice for a classic lime flavor.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, you can use regular limes as a substitute, but key limes will give you a more authentic flavor.

How long do these bars take to set?

These bars should chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for a perfect texture.

Can I make these bars vegan?

You can substitute the cream and eggs with plant-based alternatives to make a vegan version.

Can I freeze key lime pie bars?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap them well before freezing.

What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?

You can make a homemade version by combining coconut milk with sugar, but the texture and sweetness may vary slightly.