Key Lime Pie Bars are a zesty, creamy treat that combines the tang of fresh lime juice with a sweet, buttery crust. I love how the silky, citrusy filling melts in my mouth and balances beautifully with the crunchy graham cracker base. These bars are perfect for hot days when I’m craving something refreshing yet indulgent.

Key Lime Pie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’m always drawn to desserts that are easy to make and deliver big flavor, and these Key Lime Pie Bars are exactly that. They require minimal ingredients, come together quickly, and chill beautifully. The tartness of the lime paired with the creamy filling and crisp crust makes each bite irresistible. Plus, I can cut them into perfect squares for serving at gatherings or just for keeping in the fridge for a quick dessert fix.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Graham cracker crumbs

  • Granulated sugar

  • Unsalted butter, melted

  • Sweetened condensed milk

  • Egg yolks

  • Fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice if key limes aren’t available)

  • Lime zest

  • Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

directions

  1. I begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. In a mixing bowl, I combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. I press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined baking pan to form the crust.

  3. I bake the crust for about 10 minutes, then let it cool slightly while I prepare the filling.

  4. In another bowl, I whisk together the egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Then I stir in the lime juice and zest until fully combined.

  5. I pour the lime filling over the cooled crust and bake again for 15–18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

  6. Once it’s out of the oven, I let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours—or overnight if I can wait that long.

  7. I slice them into squares and, if I want an extra touch, I top them with a dollop of whipped cream before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 bars, depending on how large I cut them. It takes around 15 minutes of prep time, 25–30 minutes of baking, and at least 3 hours of chilling time before serving.

Variations

Sometimes I add a coconut twist by mixing shredded coconut into the crust for extra texture. I’ve also tried making them with lemon or orange juice for a citrusy variation. When I want a richer flavor, I add a splash of vanilla extract to the filling. For a gluten-free version, I use gluten-free graham crackers, and they still turn out amazing.

storage/reheating

These bars keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days. I store them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if I’m stacking them. While they’re best served chilled, I sometimes let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for a softer texture. I don’t recommend reheating them—these are meant to be enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Can I use bottled key lime juice?

Yes, I often use bottled key lime juice when I can’t find fresh key limes. Just make sure it’s 100% juice for the best flavor.

What’s the difference between key lime and regular lime?

Key limes are smaller and more aromatic with a slightly more tart flavor. I use regular limes when key limes aren’t in season, and the result is still delicious.

Can I freeze Key Lime Pie Bars?

Yes, I freeze them in a single layer until firm, then wrap individually and store in a freezer bag. They thaw beautifully in the fridge.

Do I need to use egg yolks?

Yes, the egg yolks help thicken and set the filling. I haven’t had the same smooth texture without them.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make them a day before an event. The flavors actually improve as they chill overnight.

Conclusion

These Key Lime Pie Bars are one of my favorite desserts for any occasion. They’re tangy, sweet, creamy, and always a hit. Whether I’m serving them at a party or keeping a batch on hand for myself, they’re a refreshing way to satisfy a citrusy craving with very little effort.

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Key Lime Pie Bars

Key Lime Pie Bars

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Key Lime Pie Bars are a tangy, creamy dessert featuring a zesty lime filling on top of a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfectly chilled, these bars are a refreshing treat ideal for warm weather or any time you’re craving citrus.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 bars
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
  • 1 tbsp lime zest
  • Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
  4. Bake crust for 10 minutes, then allow to cool slightly.
  5. In another bowl, whisk egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
  6. Stir in lime juice and zest until well mixed.
  7. Pour filling over the cooled crust and bake for 15–18 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
  8. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
  9. Slice into squares and top with whipped cream if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Add shredded coconut to the crust for extra texture.
  • Try lemon or orange juice as a variation.
  • Add a splash of vanilla extract for deeper flavor.
  • Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.
  • Best served chilled; do not reheat.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 130mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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