Get ready to transform your dessert game with these irresistible Key Lime Bars that combine the perfect balance of zesty lime, creamy sweetness, and a cinnamon-spiced graham cracker crust. Imagine cutting into a square that promises a burst of tropical flavor in every single bite – these bars are not just a dessert, they're a culinary escape that will transport you to a sunny Florida Keys afternoon with just one taste!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-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, melted butter, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a measuring cup or flat spatula to create a compact, smooth crust.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes while preparing the filling.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together eggs, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth and well combined. Ensure no streaks of egg remain.
- Pour the lime filling evenly over the pre-baked crust, making sure to spread it to the edges of the pan.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15-20 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 about 1 hour.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to firm up completely.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 16 equal squares.
- Optional: Garnish with additional lime zest or whipped cream before serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use fresh key lime juice if possible for the most authentic and vibrant flavor. Bottled juice works, but fresh is always best.
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature to help them blend more smoothly into the condensed milk mixture.
- Don't overbake the bars! The filling should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven – it will continue to set as it cools.
- For the crispiest crust, press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to create a compact base.
- Allow plenty of cooling time – refrigerating for at least 2 hours helps the bars set perfectly and enhances their flavor.
- For clean, precise cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg
