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Perfect Key Lime Pie Bars

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These Key Lime Pie Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust paired with a tangy, smooth lime filling, making a quick and crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (room temperature)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 4 large egg yolks (room temperature)
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (about 4–5 key limes)
  • Zest of 2 key limes
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
  • Whipped cream or coconut whipped topping (optional garnish)
  • Additional lime zest or thin lime slices (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Pour in melted butter and stir until mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
  2. Press crust mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking pan. Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth and pale yellow. Add sweetened condensed milk and whisk until combined. Stir in key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract if using.
  4. Pour lime filling over the warm crust and spread evenly. Tap pan gently to release air bubbles.
  5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes until edges are set but center is slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking.
  6. Remove from oven and cool to room temperature. Cover and chill in refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
  7. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry to cut bars into 9 or 12 squares. Garnish with whipped cream and extra lime zest if desired.

Notes

Use fresh key limes for best flavor; regular limes can be substituted. Chill bars overnight for best texture and flavor. Dip knife in hot water before slicing for clean edges. For dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free condensed milk. For gluten-free, use almond flour crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: Key Lime Pie Bars, graham cracker crust, lime dessert, easy summer dessert, tangy lime bars, homemade key lime bars

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/perfect-key-lime-pie-bars-recipe-easy-homemade-bars-with-buttery-graham-cracker-crust/