I love a bright, easy dessert like Key Lime Pie Bars. I make them when I want a tart, sweet treat that does not take all day. For another easy bar to try, see sweet potato pie bars.
Dad James told me to bring these to summer picnics, and Mom Eva taught me how to zest limes while Sister Sarah always whips the cream.
Your Ingredients List
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cups sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- zest of 2 key limes
- 2 large eggs
- whipped cream for topping (optional)
My Go-To Equipment
I use a 9×13 baking dish, a medium bowl, and a whisk or hand mixer. I also reach for a microplane for zesting and a spatula to press the crust, a few tools I lean on when I bake things like Amish peanut butter cream pie.
The Simple Steps to Follow
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Whisk sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, zest, and eggs until smooth.
- Pour the key lime mixture over the crust.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until set.
- Let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
- Cut into bars and serve chilled with whipped cream if you like.
Healthy Twists on a Classic
I swap part of the sweetened condensed milk with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter filling. You can also use a mix of graham and oatmeal crumbs for a crust with more fiber.
Serving Suggestions From My Table
I serve these bars cold on a small plate with a dollop of whipped cream and a lime wheel. They also pair well with coffee or small spiced treats like apple cider whoopie pies.
Getting It Just Right
Do not overbake. The center should be just set, not jiggly. Press the crust firmly so it holds the filling, and zest before juicing to capture the oils.
How to Store Leftovers
Cover the bars and keep them in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze cut bars in a single layer on a tray, then wrap them tight and freeze up to one month.
Enjoy Every Moment
Serve these bars cold, smile, and enjoy the bright lime flavor with family and friends.
A Few Common Questions
How long do Key Lime Pie Bars last in the fridge?
They keep well in an airtight container for about 3 to 4 days. Keep them cold and only add whipped cream when you serve.
Can I make Key Lime Pie Bars ahead of time?
Yes. You can bake them a day ahead and refrigerate them. They also freeze well for up to one month if wrapped tightly.
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes in Key Lime Pie Bars?
Yes. Regular limes work fine, though the flavor is a bit sharper. Adjust zest and juice to taste if needed.
Print
Key Lime Pie Bars
- Total Time: 130 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bright and easy dessert bars with a tart lime flavor, perfect for summer picnics.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cups sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- Zest of 2 key limes
- 2 large eggs
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Whisk sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, zest, and eggs until smooth.
- Pour the key lime mixture over the crust.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until set.
- Let cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
- Cut into bars and serve chilled with whipped cream if you like.
Notes
Do not overbake. The center should be just set, not jiggly. Press the crust firmly so it holds the filling, and zest before juicing to capture the oils.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: key lime pie bars, easy dessert, summer dessert, tart treat, picnic dessert