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Key Lime Bars

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  • Author: Maria B. Evans
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Yield: 9-12 bars 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Tropical
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Key Lime Bars are tangy, creamy, and perfectly balanced with a smooth lime filling on a crisp graham cracker crust. They’re easy to make and a refreshing dessert for any occasion!


Ingredients

Units Scale
For the Crust:
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the Key Lime Filling:
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
  • 1 tbsp lime zest (optional, for extra flavor)
For Topping (Optional):
  • Whipped cream
  • Lime zest for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
  1. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks until slightly thickened.
  2. Add sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest. Mix until smooth.
  3. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
  1. Bake for 15-17 minutes until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
  2. Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) for best texture.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
  1. Once chilled, slice into bars.
  2. Top with whipped cream and lime zest if desired.

Notes

  • No key limes? Use regular lime juice (or a mix of lemon & lime).
  • Want a crunchier crust? Add 2 tbsp of crushed nuts.
  • For a firmer set, chill in the fridge overnight.
  • Dairy-free? Use coconut condensed milk for a tropical twist!

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~220 kcal
  • Sugar: ~20g
  • Sodium: ~100mg
  • Fat: ~10g
  • Saturated Fat: ~6g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Protein: ~3g