These Key Lime Pie Bars are a tasty treat with a zesty lime filling and a buttery crust. They’re easy to make and perfect for a summer dessert!
Whenever I take a bite, it feels like a mini vacation! I like serving them chilled with a dollop of whipped cream on top—so refreshing and fun!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham cracker crumbs: These provide a sweet and crumbly crust. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using crushed almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers. I’ve used both and they’re just as tasty!
Cream cheese: This is crucial for a rich, creamy filling. If you’re in a pinch, Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter alternative. Just remember it may be slightly less creamy but works fine.
Sour cream: This adds a nice tang to the filling. Greek yogurt can be a good substitute if you don’t have sour cream. It’s creamy and offers a similar flavor profile!
Key lime juice: Fresh key limes give the best flavor, but regular limes work too. You won’t get that unique tartness, but it’s still delicious. If you’re using bottled juice, make sure it’s 100% pure!
Heavy cream: Needed for the fluffy topping. If you want a lighter option, whipped coconut cream can be a great alternative for a dairy-free version. It’s just as light and yummy!
How Do I Ensure the Perfect Filling Texture?
Getting the right texture for your filling is key to a successful Key Lime Pie Bar. Follow these tips to help you out:
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. This helps avoid lumps.
- Add ingredients gently. After mixing in the key lime juice and sour cream, blend well but don’t overmix, especially after adding the eggs.
- The filling should still jiggle slightly when you take it out of the oven. It continues to set while cooling.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup fresh key lime juice (about 4-5 key limes)
- Zest of 2 key limes
- 3 large eggs
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Lime zest for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to bake. After baking, you’ll need to chill the bars for at least 4 hours (or overnight for the best taste). So, make sure to plan ahead for chilling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, letting some hang over the edges for easy lifting later. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a nice, even crust.
2. Bake the Crust:
Pop your crust in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden brown. Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Next, add in the sour cream, key lime juice, and lime zest, mixing until everything is well incorporated. Then, add the eggs one by one, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
4. Bake the Filling:
Now it’s time to pour your creamy filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the filling sets but still has a slight jiggle in the center. When done, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Chill and Top:
After it has cooled, cover the pan and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or, for the best flavor, overnight. When you’re ready to serve, prepare the topping by whipping the heavy cream and powdered sugar together with a mixer until soft peaks form. Spread this delicious whipped cream over the chilled bars and sprinkle with lime zest for a lovely finish.
6. Serve the Bars:
Finally, cut the chilled Key Lime Pie Bars into squares. Serve them cold and enjoy this refreshing treat with friends and family!
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Yes, you can! Regular limes will work in a pinch, but keep in mind that they are a bit more tart than key limes. You might want to adjust the sugar slightly to balance the tartness if you prefer a sweeter filling.
How Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free Key Lime Pie Bars, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies. Ensure that any other ingredients you choose are also certified gluten-free.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover Key Lime Pie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep the crust from getting soggy, it’s best to layer parchment paper between the bars and the container lid.
Can I Freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving, and re-whip the cream topping fresh for the best texture!
