Hey y'all! If you're craving a refreshingly zesty treat that's both creamy and easy to make, these Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars are just the ticket. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a luscious, tangy filling, they're perfect for summer parties, family gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. These bars are quick to whip up and slice beautifully for sharing—plus, they're guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe
- Bright and tangy flavor—each bite tastes like sunshine in dessert form!
- Creamy, smooth filling on a crunchy, buttery crust for the perfect texture combo.
- Simple ingredients and minimal prep make these bars nearly foolproof.
- Perfect for make-ahead desserts or potluck parties—easy to transport and serve.
- Customizable with fun toppings like whipped cream or fresh berries.
Ingredients for Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 (14-ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ⅔ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest (about 4 key limes)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, extra lime zest, fresh berries
How to Make Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until everything resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Key Lime Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread it into an even layer.
Step 3: Bake and Chill the Bars
- Bake the bars for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the center barely jiggles when shaken.
- Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (overnight is best) to fully set.
Step 4: Slice and Serve Your Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars
- Lift the chilled bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut them into 16 squares, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges.
- Top with whipped cream, extra lime zest, or fresh berries, if desired.
Notes for Making the Best Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars
- For the most authentic flavor, use fresh key limes, but bottled key lime juice works in a pinch—see this comparison by Bon Appétit.
- Chilling overnight will yield the cleanest slices and best texture.
- If you don’t have key limes, Persian limes are a tasty substitute.
Variations on Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars
- Coconut Crust: Swap in ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut for part of the graham cracker crumbs for a tropical twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to accommodate dietary needs.
- Mini Key Lime Pie Bites: Press the crust and filling into mini muffin tins for adorable, bite-sized treats.
Required Equipment for Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars
- 9x9-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Microplane or zester (for lime zest)
Storage Instructions for Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars (well wrapped) for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Serving Recommendations and Pairings for Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars
- Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra lime zest.
- Pair with fresh summer berries or a cool glass of iced tea.
- Serve alongside light, fruity desserts like fruit salad for a refreshing dessert spread.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars
- For neat, professional-looking squares, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts—discover more bar-cutting tips here.
- Don’t overbake! The filling should jiggle slightly in the center when done; it sets as it chills.
- Allow the crust to cool slightly before adding the filling to avoid sogginess.
FAQ: Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars
- Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
- Yes! Persian limes work well if you can’t find key limes, though the flavor is slightly less floral and tart.
- Do I need to use fresh lime juice?
- Fresh is best for flavor, but good-quality bottled key lime juice (like Nellie & Joe’s) is a convenient substitute.
- Can I double this Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars recipe?
- Absolutely—double all ingredients and bake in a 9x13-inch pan, increasing the bake time by 3-5 minutes as needed.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes (includes chilling)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cans (14 oz each) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
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2In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
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3Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
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4In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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5Pour the lime filling over the cooled crust and spread evenly. Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
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6Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars. Top with whipped cream if desired before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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