Imagine a dessert that combines the tangy sophistication of key lime pie with the comforting texture of a cake bar - sounds like heaven, right? These Key Lime Pie Cake Bars are about to revolutionize your dessert game, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and creamy in every single bite. Whether you're looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a tropical-inspired delicacy, this recipe is your ticket to dessert paradise!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of sugar, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a compact base layer.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, remaining 1/4 cup sugar, eggs, and lime zest until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Carefully pour the lime mixture over the graham cracker crust, ensuring an even distribution.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature for approximately 1 hour.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 16 even squares, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the bars to set and develop maximum flavor.
- Optional: Garnish with additional lime zest or whipped cream before serving.
Tips
- Use fresh key lime juice if possible - it makes a world of difference in flavor intensity.
- Make sure your butter is fully melted for the graham cracker crust to ensure a uniform, compact base.
- Don't overbake! The filling should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven.
- Chilling is crucial - let the bars set in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to develop the best texture and flavor.
- For a professional touch, use a hot, clean knife when cutting to achieve crisp, clean edges.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
