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If you love a tart, sweet treat, you’ll adore my Key Lime Pie Bars! This recipe brings all the bright flavors of classic key lime pie into easy-to-eat bars. Whether you want a simple dessert or a fun addition to a picnic, these bars are perfect. Join me as we dive into the easy steps to create this delightful citrus dessert, along with tips to make it just right!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bright and Tangy Flavor: The combination of fresh key lime juice and zest brings a refreshing and zesty taste that is perfect for any occasion.
- Coconut Crust Delight: The addition of shredded coconut in the crust adds a unique texture and flavor, making it a delightful twist on the classic key lime pie.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it a perfect dessert for both beginners and experienced bakers.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 16 bars in one batch, it’s an ideal dessert for gatherings, parties, or simply to enjoy with family and friends.
Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe
Ingredients List
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– ¼ cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– ⅓ cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
– Zest of 2 key limes
– Whipped cream for topping (optional)
– Lime slices and extra zest for garnish
Prep and Cook Times
– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings Information
This recipe makes 16 delicious bars. Each bar is a perfect bite of zesty flavor. You can share them with friends or enjoy them all yourself. They are great for parties or a cozy dessert at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for baking.
Prepare the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, add these ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– ¼ cup sugar
Mix them together until you have a crumbly texture. This will become your crust.
Make the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs until they are frothy. Then, add:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– ⅓ cup fresh key lime juice (you can use regular lime juice)
– Zest of 2 key limes
Stir well until everything is smooth. This filling adds the zesty flavor.
Pour and Bake
Now, pour your filling over the cooled crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for a filling that is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
Cool the Bars
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven. Let it cool at room temperature for a bit. Then, transfer it to the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours. This makes the bars firm and easy to cut.
Slice and Serve
When you’re ready to enjoy, cut the bars into squares. If you like, top them with whipped cream. Garnish with lime slices and extra zest for a fun look. Enjoy your tasty treat!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for a Perfect Crust
To make a great crust, use fresh graham cracker crumbs. I like to crush them myself. Mix the crumbs with shredded coconut, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture tightly into the baking dish. This helps form a strong base. Bake it until golden brown. This step adds flavor and texture. Let it cool before adding the filling.
Enhancing Flavor with Lime Zest
Lime zest gives your bars a bright, fresh taste. Use a microplane to grate the zest off two key limes. Mix the zest into your filling for added flavor. It gives a nice balance to the sweetness. You can also sprinkle some zest on top before serving. This adds color and a zesty kick.
Serving Suggestions
When serving, cut the bars into even squares. Top each square with whipped cream if you like. Garnish with lime slices and extra zest for flair. Serve them chilled for a refreshing treat. These bars make a great dessert for parties. They look and taste amazing!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Limes: For the best flavor, always use fresh key limes or limes instead of bottled juice. Fresh juice enhances the tart and zesty profile of your bars.
- Chill Thoroughly: Make sure to chill the bars for at least 2 hours after baking. This helps them set properly and makes them easier to slice.
- Customize the Topping: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Besides whipped cream, consider adding toasted coconut or even a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for added texture.
- Prevent Cracking: To avoid cracks in your filling, do not overbake the bars. They should be set but still slightly wobbly in the center when you take them out.
Variations
Coconut Key Lime Pie Bars
For a tropical twist, try adding coconut. Use ½ cup of shredded coconut in the crust. This gives your bars a rich flavor. The coconut adds a chewy texture that pairs well with the creamy filling. The sweet coconut taste balances the tart lime. Serve these bars with extra coconut on top for style.
Gluten-Free Key Lime Pie Bars
You can make gluten-free versions using gluten-free graham crackers. Replace regular graham crackers with gluten-free ones. This keeps the crust tasty without the gluten. They still have that crunchy base we love. Plus, the filling remains the same, keeping the zesty flavor.
No-Bake Key Lime Pie Bars
If you want a quick dessert, try no-bake bars. Skip the oven and chill the crust instead. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar, then press into a pan. For the filling, blend sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and zest. Pour this mixture onto the crust. Let it chill in the fridge for about three hours. This version is cool and refreshing for hot days.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Bars
To keep your Key Lime Pie Bars fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This will help keep them moist and tasty. They can last up to five days. Be sure not to let them sit out too long. The heat can change their texture and flavor.
Freezing Key Lime Pie Bars
You can freeze these bars for later enjoyment. First, cut them into squares. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to three months. When you want to eat them, thaw in the fridge overnight. This keeps the texture nice.
Shelf Life and Freshness Tips
Key Lime Pie Bars are best when fresh. They taste great for about five days in the fridge. To keep them tasting good, avoid leaving them uncovered. This can cause them to dry out. If you see any changes in color or smell, it’s best to toss them. Always check for freshness before serving.
FAQs
What are Key Limes and How Do They Differ from Regular Limes?
Key limes are smaller and rounder than regular limes. They have a bright yellow color when ripe. The taste is more tart and aromatic. Regular limes are often larger and green. They have a milder flavor. Key limes are the star of the classic Key lime pie. Their unique taste makes these bars special.
Can I Use Bottled Lime Juice Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use bottled lime juice. However, fresh key lime juice offers the best flavor. Bottled juice may have added sugars or preservatives. If you use it, check the label for purity. Fresh juice gives your bars a bright and zesty taste. For the best results, squeeze your own limes.
Where Can I Buy Pre-Made Key Lime Pie Bars?
You can often find pre-made bars at local bakeries or specialty shops. Some grocery stores may also carry them. Check the dessert section for options. Online shops may sell them and deliver to your door. If you want a fresh taste, making your own is always a great choice.
How Do I Make Key Lime Pie Bars in Advance?
Making these bars ahead is easy! Prepare the bars as directed and chill them. They last in the fridge for about 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze. To enjoy later, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. This keeps them fresh and delicious.
In this post, we explored how to make delicious Key Lime Pie Bars. You learned about the ingredients, prep time, and serving size. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you bake perfectly. Tips for a great crust and flavor hints made the process easier. We also discussed variations and storage methods.
These bars are not just tasty; they’re easy to personalize. Enjoy making them for friends or family. You’ll impress everyone with your baking skill
Zesty Key Lime Pie Bars
Delicious and tangy key lime pie bars with a coconut graham cracker crust.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 200 kcal
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.5 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
- 0.25 cups sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 0.33 cups fresh key lime juice
- 2 pieces zest of key limes
- 1 serving whipped cream for topping (optional)
- 1 serving lime slices and extra zest for garnish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined and slightly crumbly.
Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8x8-inch baking dish to form an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until frothy. Add the sweetened condensed milk, fresh key lime juice, and lime zest. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and combined.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until firm.
When ready to serve, cut into bars and top with whipped cream if desired. Garnish with lime slices and extra zest for a pop of color and flavor.
Arrange the bars on a platter with lime slices and whipped cream for presentation.
Keyword coconut, dessert, key lime, pie bars
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