Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Bars Citrus Treat :
- Bright, tangy citrus flavor that’s refreshing and not too sweet.
- Quick prep and bake time—perfect for last-minute dessert needs.
- Crowd-pleasing bars that travel well for potlucks and picnics.
- Easy to make ahead: chill, cut, and serve when guests arrive.
- Kid-friendly and family-approved—zesty but gentle lime flavor.
introduction
Light, sunny, and impossibly easy, these Key Lime Bars Citrus Treat are a go-to when you want something bright and refreshing. The buttery graham crust plus a silky, tangy filling makes every bite feel like summer. For another bar-style favorite that’s great for lunchboxes and dessert trays, check out this take on Golden Graham Bars for more inspiration.
Ingredients Needed :
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup key lime juice
- zest of 2 key limes
Topping
- powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and key lime zest until smooth.
- Pour the key lime filling over the baked crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Serving Suggestions Key Lime Bars Citrus Treat
- Serve chilled with a small dollop of whipped cream and extra lime zest for a pretty finish.
- Pair with fresh berries or a few mint leaves to balance the tartness.
- For a party platter, cut into small squares and arrange with brownies and cookies for variety.
- Try alongside a light scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fruity sorbet for contrast — if you want a waffle-and-ice-cream pairing, consider ideas like a waffle ice cream treat for a unique dessert board.
Tips for Success Key Lime Bars Citrus Treat
- Use fresh key lime juice whenever possible; bottled lime juice will work but fresh zest and juice deliver the brightest flavor.
- Press the crust firmly and evenly into the pan—this helps the bars hold together when cut.
- Watch the baking time closely; the filling should be set at the edges but slightly jiggly in the center to avoid overbaking.
- Chill thoroughly before slicing—cold bars slice cleaner and keep their shape.
- For a chocolate-citrus pairing idea, serve a small square of your citrus bars with a complementary bite like chocolate-and-raisin treats to please both citrus and chocolate lovers.
variation (if any)
- Coconut Key Lime Bars: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the crust and sprinkle toasted coconut on top.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour for the crust.
- Mini Tartlets: Press crust into a mini muffin pan, bake, fill with filling, and bake just a few minutes until set for individual servings.
- Lower-Sugar: Substitute a reduced-sugar sweetened condensed milk and use a light dusting of powdered sugar or skip the topping.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
A: Yes. Regular (Persian) limes will work; the flavor is slightly different but still bright and delicious. Adjust zest and juice to taste.
Q: How long do key lime bars keep in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to 4–5 days. For best texture, keep them chilled until serving.
Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes. Freeze cut bars in a single layer on a sheet pan, then wrap individually and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Why did my filling crack or separate?
A: Overbaking can cause cracking or a curdled texture. Remove when the center is slightly jiggly and finish chilling in the fridge to fully set.
Key Lime Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and key lime zest until smooth.
- Pour the key lime filling over the baked crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
