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Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe

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4.2 from 11 reviews

These Key Lime Pie Bars offer a tangy and sweet twist on the classic Key Lime Pie, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a luscious, creamy lime filling. Perfectly chilled and optionally garnished with whipped cream, these bars deliver a refreshing citrus dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets, crushed)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 Tablespoons butter, melted

Filling

  • 2 (14 ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup key lime juice
  • Zest of 2 regular limes or 4 key limes

Topping (Optional)

  • Fresh whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Make Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking pan to form the crust.
  2. Bake Crust: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10 minutes. Remove and allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling.
  3. Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with electric beaters until smooth and creamy. Add both cans of sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest. Mix well until the filling is smooth and fully combined.
  4. Bake Filling: Pour the prepared filling over the cooled graham cracker crust. Bake again in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Once done, let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  5. Chill Bars: After cooling, refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours to set properly and develop full flavor.
  6. Serve: Cut into squares and optionally top each bar with a dollop of fresh whipped cream before serving for an extra creamy finish.

Notes

  • The key lime juice can be substituted with fresh regular lime juice if key limes are unavailable.
  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • Press the crust mixture firmly into the pan for a solid base that holds together well.
  • These bars are best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • For an extra zing, add a bit more lime zest on top before serving.