FREE DINNER EBOOK! Get your copy!

Key Lime Pie Bars Delightful and Easy to Make

by on April 25, 2025

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a sweet treat that’s simple and delicious? You’re in the right place! These Key Lime Pie Bars bring all the tangy flavor of a classic key lime pie, but are easier to make and perfect for sharing. Join me as we explore step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and tasty variations. Get ready to whip up a dessert that will impress friends and family alike! Let’s dive in!

- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - ¼ cup granulated sugar - 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk - ½ cup fresh key lime juice (about 15-20 limes) - 3 large egg yolks - 1 tablespoon lime zest - ½ teaspoon salt - Whipped cream for topping - Lime slices for garnish You don't need much to make these bars. Here’s what you will use: - 8x8-inch baking dish - Mixing bowls - Whisk - Measuring cups and spoons - Spatula - Knife for cutting If you can't find key limes, you can use regular limes. The taste will change, but it still tastes great. For the crust, you can replace graham crackers with digestive biscuits. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk. You can also swap the unsalted butter for vegan butter if needed. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step makes sure your pie bars bake evenly. If your oven is not ready, the crust may not bake right. In a bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Stir until it feels moist and crumbly. Next, grease an 8x8-inch baking dish. Press the crumb mix into the bottom firmly. It should be flat and even. Bake for 10 minutes, until golden. Once done, take it out and let it cool. While the crust cools, grab another bowl. Whisk together 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, ½ cup of fresh key lime juice, 3 egg yolks, 1 tablespoon of lime zest, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix well until smooth. This filling is the star of your bars, so make sure it’s blended nicely. Now, pour the key lime mix over the cooled crust. Spread it evenly. Put the dish back in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for a slight jiggle in the center; this means it's ready. After baking, let the bars cool for 30 minutes at room temperature. Then, chill them in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps them firm up before you cut them. When serving, cut into squares and top with whipped cream and a slice of lime. Enjoy this tasty treat! To make the best crust, use fresh graham cracker crumbs. You can crush whole crackers in a food processor for a finer texture. Mix the crumbs with melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into your baking dish. Bake until it is lightly golden. This step ensures a crunchy base for your bars. Fresh key limes give the best flavor. You will need about 15-20 limes for half a cup of juice. Roll the limes before cutting to get more juice. Use a microplane to zest the limes. The zest adds a bright touch and enhances the flavor. Always strain the juice to remove any pulp or seeds. When mixing the filling, whisk the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, lime zest, and salt until smooth. It should have a creamy texture without lumps. Pour it slowly over the cooled crust. Bake until it’s just set, with a slight jiggle in the center. This ensures a creamy and smooth filling that melts in your mouth. Pro Tips Use Fresh Limes: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh key limes instead of bottled juice. Fresh limes provide a vibrant taste that elevates the pie bars. Chill Thoroughly: Allow the bars to chill for at least 2 hours after baking. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and helps the filling set properly. Uniform Slices: To cut the bars into even squares, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water. Wiping the knife between cuts will help maintain clean edges. Customize the Topping: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding crushed graham crackers, lime zest, or even toasted coconut for an extra layer of flavor and texture. {{image_4}} You can make mini key lime pie bars for fun bite-sized treats. Use a mini muffin tin instead of a baking dish. Press the crust mixture into each cup. Pour the lime filling on top, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Bake them just like the larger bars. They take less time to cook, so watch them closely. These mini bars are perfect for parties or gatherings. Toppings can make your key lime pie bars even more special. Try adding fresh fruit like berries or mango. You can also sprinkle toasted coconut on top for some crunch. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can add a sweet twist. Keep the whipped cream, as it pairs well with the tart lime flavor. Get creative and mix flavors that you love. If you want to try something new, use different bases for your crust. You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free cookies. Each option gives a unique flavor to your bars. Experiment to find your favorite crust. To keep your Key Lime Pie Bars fresh, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. If you don’t have a container, cover them tightly with plastic wrap. Make sure the bars are completely cool before storing. This keeps the texture just right. When stored well, these bars last up to five days in the fridge. After that, they may lose their fresh taste. If you notice any change in texture or smell, it’s best to toss them. Always check for signs of spoilage before enjoying. You can freeze these bars if you want to save some for later. Cut them into squares first. Wrap each square in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. These bars can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Enjoy them cool for a refreshing treat! Key limes are small, round, and green. They have a strong, tart flavor. They are different from regular limes, which are larger and yellow. Key limes grow best in warm, humid places. They are often used in desserts, like key lime pie. Their juice gives a bright taste that makes dishes pop. You can use bottled lime juice, but fresh juice is better. Fresh key lime juice gives a stronger flavor. Bottled juice may taste less vibrant. If you use bottled juice, check the label for added sugars. It may change the taste of your bars. For best results, stick with fresh key limes. The bars are done when the filling is set. You want a slight jiggle in the middle. This means they are cooked but still creamy. Keep an eye on them in the oven. Overbaking can make the filling tough. Trust your senses; they will smell great when done! Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. They taste even better after chilling. You can bake them a day in advance. Just cover them well and store them in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, cut and top with whipped cream. This makes for an easy dessert! Making Key Lime Pie Bars is fun and easy. We went through all the key steps. We covered ingredients, equipment, and substitutions. Then, we walked through the baking process. I shared tips for a perfect crust and variations to try. Lastly, I explained how to store your bars. I hope this guide helps you enjoy making these tasty treats! Every bite is worth the effort. Enjoy sharing your delicious bars with family and friends!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Refreshing Flavor: The bright and tangy taste of key limes makes these bars a perfect refreshing dessert, especially on warm days.
  2. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
  3. Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares and topped with whipped cream, these bars are ideal for potlucks, gatherings, or parties.
  4. Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant green lime topping and creamy texture make these bars visually stunning on any dessert table.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

– ¼ cup granulated sugar

– 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

– ½ cup fresh key lime juice (about 15-20 limes)

– 3 large egg yolks

– 1 tablespoon lime zest

– ½ teaspoon salt

– Whipped cream for topping

– Lime slices for garnish

Essential Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make these bars. Here’s what you will use:

– 8×8-inch baking dish

– Mixing bowls

– Whisk

– Measuring cups and spoons

– Spatula

– Knife for cutting

Substitutions for Ingredients

If you can’t find key limes, you can use regular limes. The taste will change, but it still tastes great. For the crust, you can replace graham crackers with digestive biscuits. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk. You can also swap the unsalted butter for vegan butter if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step makes sure your pie bars bake evenly. If your oven is not ready, the crust may not bake right.

Make the Graham Cracker Crust

In a bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Stir until it feels moist and crumbly. Next, grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. Press the crumb mix into the bottom firmly. It should be flat and even. Bake for 10 minutes, until golden. Once done, take it out and let it cool.

Prepare the Key Lime Filling

While the crust cools, grab another bowl. Whisk together 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, ½ cup of fresh key lime juice, 3 egg yolks, 1 tablespoon of lime zest, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix well until smooth. This filling is the star of your bars, so make sure it’s blended nicely.

Bake and Cool the Bars

Now, pour the key lime mix over the cooled crust. Spread it evenly. Put the dish back in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for a slight jiggle in the center; this means it’s ready. After baking, let the bars cool for 30 minutes at room temperature. Then, chill them in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps them firm up before you cut them. When serving, cut into squares and top with whipped cream and a slice of lime. Enjoy this tasty treat!

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring a Perfect Crust

To make the best crust, use fresh graham cracker crumbs. You can crush whole crackers in a food processor for a finer texture. Mix the crumbs with melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into your baking dish. Bake until it is lightly golden. This step ensures a crunchy base for your bars.

Tips for Key Lime Juice and Zest

Fresh key limes give the best flavor. You will need about 15-20 limes for half a cup of juice. Roll the limes before cutting to get more juice. Use a microplane to zest the limes. The zest adds a bright touch and enhances the flavor. Always strain the juice to remove any pulp or seeds.

Achieving the Right Consistency

When mixing the filling, whisk the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, lime zest, and salt until smooth. It should have a creamy texture without lumps. Pour it slowly over the cooled crust. Bake until it’s just set, with a slight jiggle in the center. This ensures a creamy and smooth filling that melts in your mouth.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Limes: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh key limes instead of bottled juice. Fresh limes provide a vibrant taste that elevates the pie bars.
  2. Chill Thoroughly: Allow the bars to chill for at least 2 hours after baking. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and helps the filling set properly.
  3. Uniform Slices: To cut the bars into even squares, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water. Wiping the knife between cuts will help maintain clean edges.
  4. Customize the Topping: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding crushed graham crackers, lime zest, or even toasted coconut for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Variations

Mini Key Lime Pie Bars

You can make mini key lime pie bars for fun bite-sized treats. Use a mini muffin tin instead of a baking dish. Press the crust mixture into each cup. Pour the lime filling on top, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Bake them just like the larger bars. They take less time to cook, so watch them closely. These mini bars are perfect for parties or gatherings.

Adding Different Toppings

Toppings can make your key lime pie bars even more special. Try adding fresh fruit like berries or mango. You can also sprinkle toasted coconut on top for some crunch. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can add a sweet twist. Keep the whipped cream, as it pairs well with the tart lime flavor. Get creative and mix flavors that you love.

Graham Cracker Alternatives

If you want to try something new, use different bases for your crust. You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free cookies. Each option gives a unique flavor to your bars. Experiment to find your favorite crust.

Storage Info

Best Way to Store Key Lime Pie Bars

To keep your Key Lime Pie Bars fresh, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. If you don’t have a container, cover them tightly with plastic wrap. Make sure the bars are completely cool before storing. This keeps the texture just right.

How Long Do They Last?

When stored well, these bars last up to five days in the fridge. After that, they may lose their fresh taste. If you notice any change in texture or smell, it’s best to toss them. Always check for signs of spoilage before enjoying.

Freezing Key Lime Pie Bars

You can freeze these bars if you want to save some for later. Cut them into squares first. Wrap each square in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. These bars can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Enjoy them cool for a refreshing treat!

FAQs

What are Key Limes?

Key limes are small, round, and green. They have a strong, tart flavor. They are different from regular limes, which are larger and yellow. Key limes grow best in warm, humid places. They are often used in desserts, like key lime pie. Their juice gives a bright taste that makes dishes pop.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

You can use bottled lime juice, but fresh juice is better. Fresh key lime juice gives a stronger flavor. Bottled juice may taste less vibrant. If you use bottled juice, check the label for added sugars. It may change the taste of your bars. For best results, stick with fresh key limes.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the filling is set. You want a slight jiggle in the middle. This means they are cooked but still creamy. Keep an eye on them in the oven. Overbaking can make the filling tough. Trust your senses; they will smell great when done!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. They taste even better after chilling. You can bake them a day in advance. Just cover them well and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, cut and top with whipped cream. This makes for an easy dessert!

Making Key Lime Pie Bars is fun and easy. We went through all the key steps. We covered ingredients, equipment, and substitutions. Then, we walked through the baking process. I shared tips for a perfect crust and variations to try. Lastly, I explained how to store your bars.

I hope this guide helps you enjoy making these tasty treats! Every bite is worth the effort. Enjoy sharing your delicious bars with family and friend

- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - ¼ cup granulated sugar - 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk - ½ cup fresh key lime juice (about 15-20 limes) - 3 large egg yolks - 1 tablespoon lime zest - ½ teaspoon salt - Whipped cream for topping - Lime slices for garnish You don't need much to make these bars. Here’s what you will use: - 8x8-inch baking dish - Mixing bowls - Whisk - Measuring cups and spoons - Spatula - Knife for cutting If you can't find key limes, you can use regular limes. The taste will change, but it still tastes great. For the crust, you can replace graham crackers with digestive biscuits. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk. You can also swap the unsalted butter for vegan butter if needed. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step makes sure your pie bars bake evenly. If your oven is not ready, the crust may not bake right. In a bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Stir until it feels moist and crumbly. Next, grease an 8x8-inch baking dish. Press the crumb mix into the bottom firmly. It should be flat and even. Bake for 10 minutes, until golden. Once done, take it out and let it cool. While the crust cools, grab another bowl. Whisk together 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, ½ cup of fresh key lime juice, 3 egg yolks, 1 tablespoon of lime zest, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix well until smooth. This filling is the star of your bars, so make sure it’s blended nicely. Now, pour the key lime mix over the cooled crust. Spread it evenly. Put the dish back in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for a slight jiggle in the center; this means it's ready. After baking, let the bars cool for 30 minutes at room temperature. Then, chill them in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps them firm up before you cut them. When serving, cut into squares and top with whipped cream and a slice of lime. Enjoy this tasty treat! To make the best crust, use fresh graham cracker crumbs. You can crush whole crackers in a food processor for a finer texture. Mix the crumbs with melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into your baking dish. Bake until it is lightly golden. This step ensures a crunchy base for your bars. Fresh key limes give the best flavor. You will need about 15-20 limes for half a cup of juice. Roll the limes before cutting to get more juice. Use a microplane to zest the limes. The zest adds a bright touch and enhances the flavor. Always strain the juice to remove any pulp or seeds. When mixing the filling, whisk the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, lime zest, and salt until smooth. It should have a creamy texture without lumps. Pour it slowly over the cooled crust. Bake until it’s just set, with a slight jiggle in the center. This ensures a creamy and smooth filling that melts in your mouth. Pro Tips Use Fresh Limes: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh key limes instead of bottled juice. Fresh limes provide a vibrant taste that elevates the pie bars. Chill Thoroughly: Allow the bars to chill for at least 2 hours after baking. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and helps the filling set properly. Uniform Slices: To cut the bars into even squares, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water. Wiping the knife between cuts will help maintain clean edges. Customize the Topping: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding crushed graham crackers, lime zest, or even toasted coconut for an extra layer of flavor and texture. {{image_4}} You can make mini key lime pie bars for fun bite-sized treats. Use a mini muffin tin instead of a baking dish. Press the crust mixture into each cup. Pour the lime filling on top, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Bake them just like the larger bars. They take less time to cook, so watch them closely. These mini bars are perfect for parties or gatherings. Toppings can make your key lime pie bars even more special. Try adding fresh fruit like berries or mango. You can also sprinkle toasted coconut on top for some crunch. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can add a sweet twist. Keep the whipped cream, as it pairs well with the tart lime flavor. Get creative and mix flavors that you love. If you want to try something new, use different bases for your crust. You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or gluten-free cookies. Each option gives a unique flavor to your bars. Experiment to find your favorite crust. To keep your Key Lime Pie Bars fresh, store them in the fridge. Use an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. If you don’t have a container, cover them tightly with plastic wrap. Make sure the bars are completely cool before storing. This keeps the texture just right. When stored well, these bars last up to five days in the fridge. After that, they may lose their fresh taste. If you notice any change in texture or smell, it’s best to toss them. Always check for signs of spoilage before enjoying. You can freeze these bars if you want to save some for later. Cut them into squares first. Wrap each square in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. These bars can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Enjoy them cool for a refreshing treat! Key limes are small, round, and green. They have a strong, tart flavor. They are different from regular limes, which are larger and yellow. Key limes grow best in warm, humid places. They are often used in desserts, like key lime pie. Their juice gives a bright taste that makes dishes pop. You can use bottled lime juice, but fresh juice is better. Fresh key lime juice gives a stronger flavor. Bottled juice may taste less vibrant. If you use bottled juice, check the label for added sugars. It may change the taste of your bars. For best results, stick with fresh key limes. The bars are done when the filling is set. You want a slight jiggle in the middle. This means they are cooked but still creamy. Keep an eye on them in the oven. Overbaking can make the filling tough. Trust your senses; they will smell great when done! Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. They taste even better after chilling. You can bake them a day in advance. Just cover them well and store them in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, cut and top with whipped cream. This makes for an easy dessert! Making Key Lime Pie Bars is fun and easy. We went through all the key steps. We covered ingredients, equipment, and substitutions. Then, we walked through the baking process. I shared tips for a perfect crust and variations to try. Lastly, I explained how to store your bars. I hope this guide helps you enjoy making these tasty treats! Every bite is worth the effort. Enjoy sharing your delicious bars with family and friends!

Zesty Key Lime Pie Bars

Delicious and tangy key lime pie bars with a graham cracker crust.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 9
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 0.5 cup fresh key lime juice
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • to taste whipped cream for topping
  • to taste lime slices for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you're ready to bake.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated and have a moist consistency.
  • Next, prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly. Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the dish to create a flat, even crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool.
  • While the crust cools, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh key lime juice, egg yolks, grated lime zest, and salt in a separate bowl. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and well blended.
  • Pour the lime mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, ensuring that it spreads evenly across the surface.
  • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. The filling should be just set, with a slight jiggle in the center indicating that it’s perfectly cooked.
  • Once done, let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. After cooling, transfer the dish to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 2 hours to firm up before cutting.
  • When ready to serve, cut into squares and plate each serving with a dollop of whipped cream on top. Garnish with a slice of lime for an eye-catching and festive presentation.

Notes

Chill for at least 2 hours before serving for best texture.
Keyword bars, dessert, key lime

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?