These Key Lime Pie Bars are a zesty treat with a creamy lime filling and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Perfect for warm days or whenever you need a little sunshine!
They’re super easy to make, and I love how refreshing they taste. Just bake, chill, and enjoy! It’s a little slice of happiness that always brightens my day! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the base of your bars. If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers make great substitutes. I love using organic options for an even better flavor!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient gives the bars their sweetness and creaminess. If you’d like a dairy-free option, try using coconut condensed milk instead. It can add an interesting twist!
Key Lime Juice: True key limes are smaller and more tart than regular limes, but regular lime juice works just fine. I usually go for fresh juice; it’s worth it for that bright flavor, but bottled juice will do in a pinch.
Sour Cream: This adds a lovely creaminess and tanginess. You can swap it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, which still offers that nice tang without sacrificing texture.
How Do I Get a Perfectly Crumbly Crust?
The crust is such an important part of these bars! You’ll want it to be firm enough to hold together but crumbly enough to have that nice texture. Follow these steps:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it looks like wet sand. Don’t skip the butter; it’s essential!
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it down evenly.
- Bake it for 10 minutes. This step helps set the crust and adds extra flavor!
Let it cool slightly before adding your filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For The Lime Filling:
- 2 (14 oz) cans sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- Zest of 2 limes
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For The Topping:
- Whipped cream (for serving)
- Lime zest (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 25-30 minutes of baking time. You’ll also need to chill the bars for at least 4 hours before serving. So, overall, plan for around 5 hours to enjoy these delicious key lime pie bars!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8 inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This will help you lift the bars out easily when they’re done. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix it all together until the mixture looks like wet sand.
2. Bake the Crust:
Now, press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish so it forms an even layer. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. When it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a bit.
3. Mix the Lime Filling:
While the crust cools, grab a large bowl and whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Keep whisking until everything is fully combined and super smooth.
4. Bake the Lime Filling:
Pour the lime filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Bake it in the oven for another 15-20 minutes. You want the edges to be set but the center can still have a slight jiggle.
5. Chill the Bars:
After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it come to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours—or longer if you want to make them ahead. This will help them firm up nicely.
6. Cut and Serve:
When they’re thoroughly chilled, carefully lift the bars out using the parchment overhang. Cut them into squares. Serve each square with a dollop of whipped cream on top and a sprinkle of lime zest. Enjoy your delicious key lime pie bars!
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Yes, you can use regular limes if key limes are unavailable! Just keep in mind that regular limes are a bit more tart, so you might want to adjust the sugar slightly to taste. The flavor will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Key Lime Pie Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you prefer, you can also freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free crumb option, such as ground almonds or gluten-free cookies. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!
What If My Filling is Too Runny?
If your filling seems too runny before baking, you can whisk it a bit more to ensure it’s thoroughly combined. It should set up nicely in the oven. If it’s still too loose after baking, it may need more chilling time in the fridge—just be patient, and it will firm up!
