These Key Lime Pie Bars are a zesty treat that’s hard to resist! Made with fresh lime juice and a buttery crust, they are perfectly tangy and sweet.
What I love most is how easy they are to make! You can whip them up quickly and enjoy a slice in no time. Plus, they’re great for sharing—just don’t forget to save a piece for yourself! 🍰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Crackers: These are essential for the crust. If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafer cookies for a slight twist in flavor.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the crust and filling. You could use brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or a sugar substitute if you’re cutting back on sugar.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the filling. Plain yogurt makes a great alternative if you don’t have sour cream on hand.
Key Lime Juice: Fresh key limes give the best flavor, but regular limes work just fine as a substitute. You can also use bottled key lime juice if fresh limes are hard to find.
Eggs: They help set the filling, giving it a nice texture. If you’re looking for an egg alternative, unsweetened applesauce or silken tofu works well in a pinch.
How Do I Make Sure My Filling Sets Perfectly?
Getting the filling just right can be a challenge. The trick is to mix the ingredients thoroughly but avoid overmixing, which can introduce air and alter the texture.
- Make sure your sweetened condensed milk and sour cream are at room temperature for smooth blending.
- Whisk until combined but don’t whip too much, as this can lead to cracks while baking.
- When pouring the filling over the crust, spread it gently so that it doesn’t disturb the crust.
- Always check for doneness by looking for a slight jiggle in the center; it should not be overly firm.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- Zest of 2 limes
- 2 large eggs
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Lime zest
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 2 hours to chill in the refrigerator. Once you bake the crust and pour in the filling, just let it cool and set before enjoying these refreshing treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take an 8×8-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This will help you remove the bars easily once they’re done!
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix everything together until it’s well combined. Then, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to create a nice, even crust.
3. Bake the Crust:
Place the crust in your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
4. Prepare the Filling:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, lime zest, and eggs until everything is smooth and well blended. This will give you a deliciously creamy filling!
5. Assemble the Bars:
Pour the key lime filling over your cooled crust, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
6. Bake the Filling:
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. You want the filling to be set but still slightly jiggle in the center when you take it out.
7. Cool and Chill:
Let the bars cool at room temperature, then place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to chill and fully set. This waiting time will make them even more refreshing!
8. Cut and Serve:
Once the bars are set, carefully lift them out of the baking dish using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares to serve.
9. Garnish:
Top each square with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest for an extra burst of flavor!
Enjoy your homemade Key Lime Pie Bars! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Absolutely! While key limes have a unique tart flavor, regular limes work just as well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the amount of sugar slightly depending on the tartness of the limes you use.
How Do I Store Leftover Key Lime Pie Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To keep them fresh, avoid stacking the bars directly on top of each other; use parchment paper between layers for separation.
Can I Freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?
Yes! These bars freeze nicely. Cut them into squares, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving!
What If My Filling Doesn’t Set?
If the filling doesn’t set properly, it could be due to underbaking or not enough lime juice. You can place the bars back in the oven for a few extra minutes until they jiggle less and feel firm to the touch. Make sure to check frequently to avoid overbaking!
