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Key Lime Pie Bars: The Ultimate Recipe for a Refreshing Dessert Delight


  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 180 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars 1x

Description

Enjoy the zesty delight of Key Lime Pie Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy key lime filling, and a fluffy whipped cream topping. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are a refreshing treat that combines tangy flavors with a sweet finish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¾ cup fresh key lime juice (about 68 key limes)
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest (from about 2 key limes)
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Additional lime zest for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir until well mixed.
  3. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
  4. Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish.
  5. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool while preparing the filling.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and sour cream. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  7. Add the fresh key lime juice and lime zest. Whisk until well combined.
  8. Add the egg yolks and whisk until fully incorporated and smooth.
  9. Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
  10. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center. Let cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  11. In a large mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream.
  12. Beat the cream on medium-high speed until it starts to thicken (about 2-3 minutes).
  13. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until stiff peaks form.
  14. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled key lime filling or pipe it on for decoration.
  15. Optionally, sprinkle additional lime zest on top.
  16. After adding the whipped cream topping, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and return it to the refrigerator for at least another hour to meld the flavors.

Notes

  • For a more intense lime flavor, adjust the amount of lime juice and zest to your preference.
  • These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes