Key lime bars are tangy, creamy, and perfectly sweet, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth lime filling. These bars are easy to make and deliver a refreshing citrus flavor in every bite. Perfect for summer gatherings, holidays, or whenever you’re craving a bright, zesty treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and tangy flavor – A perfect balance of sweet and tart.
- Creamy and smooth – A luscious filling that melts in your mouth.
- Simple to make – Just mix, bake, and chill!
- Great for any occasion – Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and desserts.
- Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and enjoy anytime.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
- Graham crackers, crushed
- Butter, melted
- Sugar
- Salt
For the Key Lime Filling:
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Egg yolks
- Key lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- Key lime zest
Optional Topping:
- Whipped cream
- Lime zest for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix crushed graham crackers, melted butter, sugar, and salt until combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
- Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).
- Cut into squares and top with whipped cream and lime zest.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 9-12 bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Variations
- Extra Tangy – Add more lime zest for a stronger citrus flavor.
- Coconut Key Lime Bars – Mix shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical twist.
- Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free graham crackers.
- Chocolate Crust – Swap graham crackers for crushed chocolate cookies.
- No-Bake Option – Use a no-bake crust and chill the filling until firm.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze bars in a single layer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular lime juice instead of key limes?
Yes! Key limes are more tart, but regular limes work as a substitute.
Do I need to use fresh lime juice?
Fresh juice gives the best flavor, but bottled key lime juice can be used if fresh is unavailable.
Why are my bars too soft?
Make sure to bake until set and chill for at least 2 hours before cutting.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They taste even better the next day after chilling overnight.
How do I get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for perfect squares.
Can I add a meringue topping?
Yes! A light meringue topping can be baked briefly for a fancy finish.
What’s the best way to serve key lime bars?
Serve chilled with whipped cream and extra lime zest.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time slightly.
What’s the difference between key limes and regular limes?
Key limes are smaller, more tart, and aromatic, while regular limes are milder.
Can I make these bars dairy-free?
Use coconut condensed milk for a dairy-free version.
Conclusion
Key lime bars are a refreshing, creamy, and easy-to-make dessert with a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Whether for a summer treat or a holiday dessert, these bars are always a hit. Serve them chilled, and enjoy a taste of the tropics in every bite!
Print
Key Lime Bars
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Citrus
Description
These Key Lime Bars are sweet, tangy, and perfectly creamy, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a zesty key lime filling. They’re easy to make and perfect for summer, holidays, or anytime you crave a refreshing citrus dessert!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 crackers, finely crushed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
For the Key Lime Filling:
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed preferred, or bottled key lime juice)
- 1 tbsp lime zest (adds extra citrus flavor!)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Whipped cream
- Extra lime zest or lime slices
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Key Lime Filling
- In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the slightly cooled crust and spread evenly.
Step 3: Bake & Chill
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) for best results.
Step 4: Slice & Serve
- Lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang.
- Slice into 16 squares.
- Dust with powdered sugar, top with whipped cream, and garnish with lime zest or slices.
Notes
- No Key Limes? Use regular lime juice or a mix of lemon & lime juice for a similar taste.
- Make Ahead: These bars store well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- Extra Tart? Add 1 more tbsp of lime juice for an extra zing!