Key Lime Pie Bars

These Key Lime Pie Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their refreshing tartness and creamy texture, they are sure to impress your family and friends. These delightful bars are easy to make and ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or just a sweet indulgence at home. The combination of zesty lime juice and sweetened condensed milk creates a uniquely delicious dessert that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can quickly whip up these bars, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Deliciously Tangy Flavor: The balance of tart lime and sweet creamy filling creates a flavor explosion that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve these bars chilled for a refreshing summer treat or warm for a comforting dessert year-round.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruits to elevate your Key Lime Pie Bars.
• Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 16 squares, this recipe is great for parties, potlucks, or simply sharing with neighbors.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Key Lime Pie Bars, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having the right equipment on hand will make preparation easier and help achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is ideal for evenly cooking your Key Lime Pie Bars and achieving the perfect thickness.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time when blending ingredients and ensures a smooth mixture without lumps.

Ingredients

These perfectly tart and tangy key lime pie bars are a breeze to make and are delicious served straight from the fridge on a hot summer day!

For the Crust

• 2 cups vanilla wafer cookies, finely ground (250 g)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

For the Filling

• 1 tablespoon lime zest, packed (6-7 key limes)
• 5 large egg yolks
• 22 ounces sweetened condensed milk (1 14-ounce can and ¾ cup from 2nd can)
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice

For the Topping

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

How to Make Key Lime Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring even baking of your Key Lime Pie Bars.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely ground vanilla wafer cookies, melted butter, and light brown sugar.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

1. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.

Step 4: Make the Filling

1. In another mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks until they are smooth.
2. Gradually add in sweetened condensed milk, lime zest, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Pour Filling Over Crust

1. Pour the filling mixture over the cooled crust in an even layer.

Step 6: Bake Again

1. Return to oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes. The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 7: Chill

1. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating them for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 8: Prepare Whipped Cream Topping

1. In a mixing bowl, whip heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
2. Spread or pipe this topping over chilled Key Lime Pie Bars before serving.

Enjoy these delicious Key Lime Pie Bars as a refreshing dessert any time!

How to Serve Key Lime Pie Bars

Key lime pie bars are a refreshing treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you enjoy them as a dessert after dinner or at a summer picnic, these suggestions will elevate your serving experience.

Classic Presentation

• Serve chilled: These bars are best enjoyed cold, enhancing their tangy flavor.
• Garnish with whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the tartness.

Tropical Twist

• Top with toasted coconut: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes for an added crunch and tropical flair.
• Pair with fresh fruit: Slices of strawberries or mangoes add color and freshness.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Drizzle with chocolate sauce: A light drizzle of dark chocolate can balance the tartness and add richness.
• Serve in mini cups: Cut the bars into small squares and serve them in mini dessert cups for individual servings.

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How to Perfect Key Lime Pie Bars

Perfecting key lime pie bars is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dessert turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh limes: Freshly squeezed lime juice gives the bars their vibrant flavor. Avoid bottled juice for the best results.
• Don’t skip the zest: Lime zest adds an extra layer of citrus flavor that enhances the overall taste of the bars.
• Chill thoroughly: Allow the bars to chill completely before cutting. This helps them set up nicely for clean slices.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter bar, feel free to add a little more sugar to the filling mixture.
• Experiment with crusts: Try using graham crackers or even crushed nuts for a different texture in your crust.

Best Side Dishes for Key Lime Pie Bars

Key lime pie bars pair well with various side dishes that complement their tangy flavor. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds refreshing sweetness alongside the tartness of the bars.
2. Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice pairs perfectly with key lime flavors, creating a tropical experience.
3. Grilled Pineapple: Slightly caramelized grilled pineapple enhances the fruity notes and brings warmth to your plate.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream serves as a rich counterpoint to the tangy dessert, making it an indulgent side.
5. Minted Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad balances the richness of key lime pie bars while adding crispness.
6. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, a light mousse can provide a delightful contrast to the citrus flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making key lime pie bars can be simple, but it’s easy to slip up. Here are common mistakes to watch for.

• Using the wrong type of cookies: Some may choose standard graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers. Stick to vanilla wafer cookies for that unique flavor.
• Skipping the lime zest: Lime zest adds a burst of flavor. Don’t skip it! Always include freshly packed lime zest for best results.
• Overbaking the bars: Key lime pie bars should be slightly jiggly in the center when done. Avoid overbaking by checking them a few minutes early.
• Not chilling long enough: These bars need time to set properly. Be patient! Chill in the fridge for at least two hours before serving.
• Ignoring the quality of ingredients: Using low-quality sweetened condensed milk or limes can affect taste. Always use high-quality ingredients for an outstanding dessert.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store key lime pie bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for about 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Key Lime Pie Bars

• Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Key Lime Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat one square at a time for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a bar on a non-stick pan over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making key lime pie bars.

What makes key lime pie bars different from regular key lime pie?

Key lime pie bars have a firmer texture and are easier to slice. They provide the same delicious tangy flavor but in a more portable form.

Can I use bottled lime juice for my key lime pie bars?

While you can, using freshly squeezed lime juice enhances flavor significantly. Fresh limes offer that authentic taste you desire.

How do I know when my key lime pie bars are done?

The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquidy. It will firm up as it cools, ensuring perfect texture.

Are key lime pie bars gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free vanilla wafers, then yes! This dessert can be easily made gluten-free with simple substitutions.

Final Thoughts

These key lime pie bars are a delightful treat perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion. Their refreshing tartness is sure to please everyone. Feel free to customize them with toppings like whipped cream or fresh fruit!

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Key Lime Pie Bars

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the refreshing delight of Key Lime Pie Bars, the perfect dessert for any occasion! With their creamy texture balanced by a zesty lime flavor, these bars are an irresistible summer treat. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them ideal for picnics, gatherings, or a sweet escape at home. The combination of luscious sweetened condensed milk and vibrant lime juice creates a uniquely delicious dessert that will impress your friends and family. Serve chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit for an extra touch.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups vanilla wafer cookies, finely ground
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• 5 large egg yolks
• 22 ounces sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground cookies, melted butter, and brown sugar; press into a greased 9×13-inch dish.
3. Bake crust for about 10 minutes until golden; let cool.
4. Whisk egg yolks until smooth; add condensed milk, lime zest, and lime juice; mix well.
5. Pour filling over the cooled crust; bake for an additional 20 minutes until set but slightly jiggly.
6. Allow to cool at room temperature before chilling in the fridge for at least 4 hours.
7. Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form; spread over chilled bars before serving.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 80mg