These Key Lime Pie Bars are zesty and refreshing, perfect for anyone who loves a tangy treat! With a crumbly graham cracker crust and creamy lime filling, they’re a real crowd-pleaser.
When I make these, I can’t help but smile. They’re like sunshine on a plate! Just chill them for a bit and enjoy every bite—trust me, they won’t last long!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: This is the base for your crust. If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a tasty alternative.
Cream Cheese: The filling gets its creamy texture from cream cheese. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese, but the flavor may alter slightly.
Key Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed key lime juice is best for flavor, but if you can’t find it, regular lime juice works, too. It will still taste delicious, just a little different!
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is used for the topping. If you want to lighten things up, you can substitute with whipped coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping cream, which adds a nice twist.
How Do You Get the Filling Just Right?
Making sure the filling is perfectly set is crucial for these bars. The key is not to overmix when adding the eggs, as this can create too much air, leading to cracks. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix the cream cheese and sugar until smooth before adding other ingredients.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just to combine—not too much!
- Check the filling around 25 minutes; it should slightly jiggle but not be liquid. It will firm up as it cools!
Letting it chill thoroughly in the fridge is essential for that perfect slice. Cut them when completely chilled for clean edges!
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 Filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
- Zest of 2 limes
- 4 large eggs
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- Lime zest, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 30-40 minutes of baking, and then at least 4 hours (or overnight) to chill. The total time needed includes all steps for creating these refreshing Key Lime Pie Bars!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the bars later. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Once everything is combined, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking dish to form a nice, even layer. Bake it in the oven for 10 minutes, then take it out and let it cool slightly.
2. Make the Filling:
In another large bowl, take the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar and beat them together with an electric mixer until the mix is smooth and creamy. Next, add in the key lime juice and lime zest, mixing well so everything is combined.
3. Add the Eggs:
Now, it’s time to add the eggs! Do this one at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition. Just mix until combined—don’t overdo it, or the filling may not set properly later!
4. Bake the Filling:
Pour the filling over your cooled crust and make sure to spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is set but still has a little jiggle in the center. Once it’s done, let it cool to room temperature, then pop it in the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight to fully set.
5. Prepare the Topping:
When your Key Lime Pie Bars are fully chilled, it’s topping time! In a chilled bowl, use a mixer to beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar together until soft peaks form. This should be light and fluffy!
6. Finish and Serve:
Spread the whipped cream over the set key lime filling in an even layer. For a fun touch, garnish with some additional lime zest on top. Now, cut the bars into squares, serve chilled, and enjoy your refreshing treat!
Can I Use Regular Limes Instead of Key Limes?
Yes, you can substitute regular limes if key limes aren’t available. However, keep in mind that key limes have a more tart and aromatic flavor, so the taste of your bars may be slightly different. Aim for the same quantity of juice and zest as specified in the recipe!
How Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free Key Lime Pie Bars, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the crust. You can find these in most grocery stores or make your own from gluten-free cookies. The rest of the ingredients should be gluten-free, but always check the labels to be sure!
Can I Freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?
Absolutely! These bars freeze well. After they have chilled in the refrigerator, cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving and add the whipped cream topping just before serving for best results.
What Should I Do If My Cream Cheese Filling is Lumpy?
If your cream cheese filling gets lumpy, it’s likely that the cream cheese wasn’t softened enough. Make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing. If you still encounter lumps, use a whisk to beat it until smooth after adding the other ingredients, but be careful not to overmix once you add the eggs!
