Ingredients
For the Graham Cracker Crust
- 2 cups (200g) graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup (65g) granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Key Lime Filling
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 can (14 ounces / 397g) sweetened condensed milk
- ½ cup (120ml) fresh key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Key lime slices
- Lime zest
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Lightly grease the parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl combine:
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Sugar
- Cinnamon
- Melted butter
Mix until the crumbs resemble wet sand.
Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 10 minutes.
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while preparing the filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl whisk the egg yolks until smooth.
Add:
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Key lime juice
- Key lime zest
- Salt
Whisk until creamy and fully combined.
The mixture will begin to thicken naturally.
Step 5: Fill the Pan
Pour the key lime filling over the warm crust.
Spread evenly using a spatula.
Gently tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
Step 6: Bake
Return the pan to the oven.
Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the filling is set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center.
Do not overbake.
Step 7: Cool
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature.
Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours, or overnight for the best texture.
Step 8: Slice and Garnish
Lift the bars out using the parchment paper.
Cut into 16 squares.
Top with:
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Lime zest
- Lime slices
Serve chilled.
Flavor Variations
Coconut Key Lime Bars
Add:
- ½ cup toasted shredded coconut
To the crust mixture.
Key Lime Cheesecake Bars
Beat in:
- 8 ounces (225g) softened cream cheese
For a richer filling.
White Chocolate Key Lime Bars
Fold:
- ½ cup melted white chocolate
Into the filling before baking.
Gluten-Free Key Lime Bars
Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Expert Tips
Use Fresh Key Lime Juice
Fresh juice provides the best flavor and authentic citrus taste.
Don’t Skip the Chill Time
Chilling allows the filling to fully set and develop flavor.
Press the Crust Firmly
A compact crust prevents crumbling when sliced.
Use Room-Temperature Ingredients
They blend more smoothly and create a silkier filling.
Clean the Knife Between Cuts
For neat, bakery-style bars.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Key Lime Bars with:
- Fresh berries
- Iced tea
- Lemonade
- Coconut whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
Perfect for:
- Summer parties
- BBQs
- Potlucks
- Baby showers
- Easter gatherings
- Mother’s Day celebrations
Storage
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Bar)
Approximate values:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 110mg
