CITRUS DESSERT

Key Lime Pie Bars

A buttery graham crust and a smooth, tangy lime filling finished with whipped cream.

Jump to Recipe
Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Total TimeAt least 3 hrs 45 mins, plus complete cooling before refrigeration
Servings16
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

For the Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling

  • 2 cans (14 ounces each) sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup key lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon finely grated lime zest
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Serving

  • Whipped cream
  • Thin lime slices or extra zest

Substitutions

  • Use regular Persian limes when Key limes are unavailable; the flavor will be slightly less floral.
  • Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free crust.
  • Use sweetened condensed coconut milk for a condensed-milk substitution (other dairy ingredients remain in the recipe), noting that the set may be softer.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the pan

Heat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment, leaving overhang on two sides.

Step 2: Bake the crust

Mix graham crumbs, sugar, and butter. Press firmly into the pan and bake for 10 minutes.

Bake the crust for Key Lime Pie Bars

Step 3: Mix the filling

Whisk condensed milk, yolks, lime juice, zest, and salt until smooth and slightly thickened.

Mix the filling for Key Lime Pie Bars

Step 4: Bake

Pour over the warm crust and bake 14 to 16 minutes, until the center is set but still has a slight wobble.

Bake for Key Lime Pie Bars

Step 5: Chill and slice

Cool completely, then refrigerate at least 3 hours. Lift from the pan and cut into 16 bars.

Finished Key Lime Pie Bars ready to serve

How to Store Leftovers

Cool Key Lime Pie Bars completely, then refrigerate in a covered container for up to 4 days. Keep the container well sealed so the baked portion does not dry out.

How to Reheat

Reheating is not needed for Key Lime Pie Bars. Serve chilled, or let a refrigerated portion lose some of its chill before serving if that suits the recipe.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient Per Serving
Calories 285
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 43g
Fat 11g
Sugar 34g

Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.

About the Author

FreshFork Recipes Team edits each recipe page for clear measurements, consistent instructions, and practical cooking guidance.

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