Key Lime Pie Bars

Key Lime Pie Bars are a refreshing, tangy dessert that packs all the flavor of traditional key lime pie into a portable, easy-to-serve bar. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, citrusy filling, these bars are the perfect balance of creamy and crisp—ideal for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or anytime you crave a tropical twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, tangy lime flavor in every bite
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• No pie plate or special tools needed
• Great for potlucks, parties, and make-ahead desserts
• A cool, creamy treat that’s perfect for summer

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
• Key lime zest (optional, for extra flavor)
• Egg yolks
• Optional toppings: whipped cream, lime zest, or lime slices

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
3. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, and egg yolks until smooth and creamy.
5. Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before slicing.
8. Slice into bars and top with whipped cream or lime zest if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 9–12 bars, depending on how you slice them.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours 40 minutes

Variations

• Coconut Crust: Add shredded coconut to the graham cracker crust for a tropical twist.
• Lime & Lemon: Mix in a bit of lemon juice for a citrus blend.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or cookie crumbs.
• Mini Bars: Bake in mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk alternative.

storage/reheating

Store Key Lime Pie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
They’re best served cold, directly from the fridge.
You can also freeze the bars (before adding any toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
No reheating is necessary.

FAQs

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Yes, regular (Persian) limes work just fine and still provide great flavor.

Is bottled key lime juice okay to use?

Absolutely. Bottled key lime juice is a convenient and commonly used substitute.

Why do I need to use egg yolks?

Egg yolks help the filling set and give the bars their creamy, custard-like texture.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The filling should be set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center—it will firm up as it chills.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time slightly.

Do I need to use parchment paper?

It’s highly recommended for easy removal and clean slicing, but not required.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they’re perfect for making a day ahead and storing in the fridge.

Are these bars very tart?

They have a bright, tangy flavor balanced by the sweetness of the condensed milk and graham crust.

Can I top them with meringue instead of whipped cream?

Sure! A toasted meringue topping adds a fancy touch and complements the lime filling beautifully.

Do they need to be refrigerated?

Yes, keep them chilled to maintain the texture and freshness of the filling.

Conclusion

Key Lime Pie Bars are the ultimate citrus dessert—refreshing, creamy, and just the right amount of tart. Whether you’re bringing them to a backyard BBQ or making a batch to enjoy at home, these bars are a fuss-free way to capture the taste of summer in every bite. Keep them in your dessert rotation for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat that always hits the spot.

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