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Key Lime Pie Bars

Creamy key lime pie bars with whipped cream on a rustic wood background.

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These easy Key Lime Pie Bars capture the classic sweet-tart flavor of the Florida Keys in a portable, no-fuss format. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, tangy lime filling, they are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple treat. Simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time yield a dessert that feels both special and comforting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 full sheets)
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (about 20-25 key limes, or use bottled)
  • 1 tablespoon key lime zest (optional, but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to form a sling.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour melted butter over and stir until mixture resembles wet sand and all crumbs are moistened.
  3. Press crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to compact it well. Bake for 8-10 minutes until fragrant. Let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks until smooth and slightly pale. Whisk in sweetened condensed milk until completely smooth.
  5. Gradually whisk in key lime juice and zest (if using) until filling thickens slightly. Pour filling over the warm crust.
  6. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle when the pan is tapped. Do not overbake.
  7. Let cool completely on a wire rack. Then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or ideally overnight, until fully set.
  8. Use parchment sling to lift bars from pan. Cut into 12 squares. Serve chilled, optionally with whipped cream or lime garnish.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free graham crackers. Bottled key lime juice (like Nellie & Joe’s) is a great shortcut; adding fresh zest boosts flavor. The bars must chill thoroughly for clean slicing. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

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