Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly balanced dessert that's both creamy and zesty, with a buttery gluten-free crust that crumbles just right. These Key Lime Bars are not just a dessert—they're a tropical escape in every single bite! Whether you're gluten-sensitive or simply craving a refreshing treat, this recipe promises to deliver a burst of sunshine that will transport you to the Florida Keys without leaving your kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp 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 gluten-free graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly moistened and resemble wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a compact base layer. Use the back of a measuring cup or spoon to ensure an even surface.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until it turns light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while preparing the filling.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, eggs, and lime zest until smooth and fully combined. Ensure no lumps remain in the mixture.
- Pour the lime filling evenly over the pre-baked crust, making sure to cover the entire surface completely.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for an additional 2 hours to help them set firmly and enhance the flavor.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 16 even squares using a sharp knife.
- Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or garnish with additional lime zest before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use fresh key lime juice whenever possible for the most vibrant flavor. If unavailable, bottled key lime juice works well too.
- Ensure your gluten-free graham cracker crumbs are finely ground for the smoothest crust texture.
- When pressing the crust, use the back of a measuring cup to create an even, compact base.
- Don't overbake the filling—it should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven.
- Chilling is crucial! The bars set perfectly and develop deeper flavors after a few hours in the refrigerator.
- For a professional touch, use a sharp, clean knife and wipe it between cuts for perfectly neat squares.
- Experiment with garnishes like fresh lime zest, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a small mint leaf for extra visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 138kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
