Key Lime Pie Bars

There’s something about key lime pie that just screams summertime, but who says you can’t enjoy this tangy treat all year round? Our take on this classic dessert comes in the form of delightful Key Lime Pie Bars. These bars offer the perfect balance of tart and sweet, with a buttery graham cracker crust that you’ll find irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and promises to deliver a delicious result. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients Breakdown

Before we begin, let’s ensure you have everything you need. This recipe is divided into two main parts: the crust and the filling. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust

• Graham Crackers: You’ll need about 15 sheets, or 30 squares, to get the right amount of crumbs.
• Granulated Sugar: Just 2 tablespoons to sweeten the crust.
• Salt: A pinch to balance the flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: Melted, 6 tablespoons, to bind the crust together.

For the Filling

• Cream Cheese: 6 ounces of original cream cheese at room temperature to ensure smooth blending.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: A 14-ounce can to add sweetness and creaminess.
• Egg Yolks: 4, to thicken the filling.
• Lime Zest: 1 tablespoon, for that zesty punch.
• Key Lime Juice: 1/2 cup. If key limes aren’t available, regular lime juice works perfectly.
• Vanilla Extract: 1/2 teaspoon to round out the flavors.

Directions to Deliciousness

Creating these key lime pie bars is a breeze. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying a mouthwatering dessert.

1. Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, ensuring it’s properly covered for easy removal.
2. Making the Crust: Crush the graham crackers until you have fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or a rolling pin and a large ziploc bag for this task. Mix the crumbs with sugar, salt, and melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes.
3. Preparing the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sweetened condensed milk and mix well. Then, incorporate the egg yolks one at a time, ensuring each is well blended before adding the next. Stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract until the mixture is homogenous.
4. Baking: Pour the filling over the baked crust and return it to the oven. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set. Make sure not to brown the top to keep it looking as great as it tastes.
5. Chilling: Once baked, let the bars cool before chilling them in the refrigerator for 2-4 hours. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
6. Serving: Cut the chilled mixture into bars. These Key Lime Pie Bars are now ready to serve and enjoy!
7. Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this delicious dessert contains approximately 350 kcal. The recipe yields about 9 servings, making it perfect for family gatherings or a weeknight treat.

Closing Thoughts

These Key Lime Pie Bars are a fantastic way to bring a taste of the tropics into your home, no matter the season. The creamy filling combined with the crunchy crust makes for a dessert that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply treating yourself, these bars are sure to delight. So, why wait? Give this recipe a try and let the sweet, tangy flavors whisk you away to dessert paradise. Happy baking!

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