Key Lime Pie Bars (Print Version)

Tangy, creamy bars with buttery crust and luscious lime filling. Easy refreshing dessert.

# What You'll Need:

→ Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

→ Filling

04 - 4 large egg yolks
05 - 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
06 - 1/2 cup key lime juice
07 - 1 tablespoon key lime zest

→ Topping

08 - 1 cup heavy whipping cream
09 - 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
10 - Zest of 1 key lime

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
02 - Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
03 - Bake crust for 8–10 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool while preparing the filling.
04 - Whisk together egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk in a large bowl until smooth. Whisk in key lime juice and zest until fully combined.
05 - Pour filling over cooled crust and smooth the top evenly.
06 - Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
07 - Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
08 - Whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe over chilled bars and sprinkle with key lime zest before serving.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The filling comes together in literally two minutes with just a whisk
  • They taste even better after chilling overnight so you can make them ahead
  • The crust to filling ratio is absolute perfection in every bite
02 -
  • The center might look underbaked when you pull it out but it firms up perfectly in the fridge
  • Overbaking causes tiny little air bubbles that ruin that silky texture
  • Letting the bars chill completely is the only way to get those clean restaurant style cuts
03 -
  • Use the bottom of a flat measuring cup to press the crust down evenly without getting your hands messy
  • Room temperature ingredients prevent the filling from separating or looking curdled