Here’s a recipe for Easy Key Lime Pie Bars—refreshing, tangy, and creamy with a simple crust, perfect for a summer treat!
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the key lime filling:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4-5 limes)
- 2 tablespoons lime zest
- 2 large eggs
For the topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Lime wedges or extra lime zest (for garnish)
Instructions:
For the crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make the crust:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust layer.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes or until golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool while you prepare the filling.
For the key lime filling:
- Make the filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest, and continue to beat until fully combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth.
- Bake the filling:
- Pour the lime filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until fully chilled and firm.
For the topping:
- Make the whipped cream topping:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
- Serve:
- Once the bars are fully chilled, spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top. Garnish with lime wedges or extra lime zest for an added touch of citrus.
- Slice into bars and serve!
Tips:
- You can make these bars ahead of time and refrigerate them overnight for an even firmer texture.
- For an extra zing, try adding a little more lime zest to the filling or topping.
- If you don’t have access to key limes, regular limes work perfectly fine.
Enjoy these Easy Key Lime Pie Bars—a cool, creamy, and refreshing treat that everyone will love! 🍋🍰
