Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the lime filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
- Slice into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
- Garnish with whipped cream, lime zest, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the tropical goodness!
Tips for Perfect Key Lime Pie Bars
✔️ Use Fresh Key Lime Juice: If available, fresh key limes give the best flavor. Bottled juice is a good alternative. ✔️ Let Them Chill: Chill thoroughly before slicing to ensure clean cuts and a firm texture. ✔️ Use a Hot Knife: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between slices for neat bars. ✔️ Make a Double Batch: These go fast, so consider doubling the recipe in a 9×13-inch pan.
Storage and Make-Ahead
Refrigeration: Store bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Healthier Variations
Lighter Crust: Use a mixture of almond flour and coconut oil for a gluten-free option. Natural Sweeteners: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup in the crust for a less refined version. Dairy-Free: Use coconut condensed milk for a dairy-free filling alternative.
Final Thoughts
Key Lime Pie Bars are a vibrant, luscious dessert that’s easy to make and guaranteed to impress. With their sweet-tart lime flavor and creamy texture on top of a buttery graham cracker crust, they bring a little taste of the tropics right to your table. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or just craving something zesty, these bars are a delightful treat you’ll want to make again and again.
Enjoy!
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