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Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe

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3.8 from 5 reviews

These Key Lime Pie Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth, tangy key lime filling. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, these bars are an easy-to-make dessert that requires minimal baking and is chilled to set for a refreshing treat.

Ingredients

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets, crushed)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons butter, melted

Filling

  • 2 (14 ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup key lime juice
  • Zest of 2 regular limes (or 4 key limes)

Topping (Optional)

  • Fresh whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Make Crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking pan to form the crust.
  2. Bake Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for 10 minutes until set and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before adding the filling.
  3. Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with electric beaters until smooth and creamy. Add both cans of sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest. Mix all ingredients until the filling is smooth and evenly combined.
  4. Bake Filling: Pour the prepared filling evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the bars to set properly.
  5. Serve: Once chilled and set, cut into bars. Top each serving with a dollop of fresh whipped cream if desired. Serve cold for a refreshing dessert experience.

Notes

  • Use fresh key lime juice for the most authentic flavor, but regular lime juice can be substituted if needed.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
  • The bars need at least 3 hours of refrigeration to set properly; overnight chilling is ideal.
  • For a decorative touch, garnish with additional lime zest or thin lime slices.
  • Store bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://cookedbysarah.com/key-lime-pie-bars-recipe/