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To make these tasty Key Lime Pie Bars, you need simple and fresh ingredients: - 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs - ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted - ¼ cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs - 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk - ⅓ cup fresh key lime juice (or regular lime juice) - Zest from 2 key limes These ingredients create a sweet and zesty flavor. The graham cracker crumbs form the crust, while the eggs and sweetened condensed milk provide a rich filling. The key lime juice and zest give the bars their signature tang. You can add a few fun toppings to make your bars even better: - Whipped cream for topping (optional) - Lime slices for garnish - Additional lime zest Whipped cream adds creaminess. Lime slices and zest provide a bright, fresh look. These toppings also enhance the flavor and make your dessert pop. You will need some basic kitchen tools: - 8x8-inch baking dish - Mixing bowls - Whisk - Spatula - Oven Using the right tools makes baking easier. The baking dish helps shape the bars, while the mixing bowls allow you to combine ingredients smoothly. A whisk ensures your filling is light and fluffy. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven warms up, grab an 8x8-inch baking dish. You can lightly grease it, or line it with parchment paper to make removing the bars easier. In a bowl, mix 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Stir until it looks crumbly but sticks together when pressed. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of your baking dish. Make sure it is even and compact. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, until it turns slightly golden. Take it out of the oven and let it cool for a bit. In a separate bowl, whisk 2 large eggs until they are frothy. Next, add 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk, ⅓ cup of fresh key lime juice, and the zest from 2 key limes. Mix everything well until the filling is smooth. This mixture gives the bars their zesty flavor. Now, carefully pour the lime filling over the cooled crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Put it back in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The filling should set but still jiggle a little in the center. Once done, take it out and allow it to cool at room temperature. After that, chill the bars in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This step helps them firm up nicely. When it’s time to serve, cut the bars into squares and enjoy! To make a great crust for your Key Lime Pie Bars, use fresh graham cracker crumbs. You can crush whole crackers in a bag for a finer texture. Mix in the unsweetened shredded coconut for added flavor and chewiness. The melted unsalted butter helps bind the crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into your baking dish. This step ensures a sturdy base that holds up when you cut the bars. Bake until golden to enhance the flavor. For a smooth filling, whisk the eggs until frothy before adding other ingredients. Combine sweetened condensed milk and fresh key lime juice slowly. This method allows for a better mix without lumps. The zest adds brightness and should be evenly distributed. The filling should be smooth but not too runny. If it jiggles slightly in the middle when done, it is perfect. To serve, chill your bars well before cutting. This step helps them hold their shape. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Place each bar on a plate, and add a dollop of whipped cream on top. Garnish with fresh lime slices and extra zest for a pop of color. Arrange the bars on a nice platter to impress your guests. A great presentation makes your dessert stand out! Pro Tips Use Fresh Limes: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh key limes over bottled juice. Freshly squeezed juice provides a vibrant taste that enhances the overall experience of your key lime pie bars. Chill Before Serving: Allowing the bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours not only firms them up but also helps the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more delicious dessert. Customize Your Crust: Feel free to experiment with different crusts by adding crushed nuts or using chocolate graham crackers for a unique twist on the classic flavor profile. Garnish Creatively: Elevate your presentation by garnishing with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers in addition to lime slices and zest, making your dessert not just tasty but visually stunning! {{image_4}} You can add a tropical twist with coconut. Use the same ingredients but add more shredded coconut. Mix 1 cup of shredded coconut into the crust. This gives your bars a rich, nutty flavor. Coconut pairs well with the zesty lime. Bake as usual, and enjoy a delightful change. Want a plant-based option? You can make vegan key lime pie bars! Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Use coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk. This keeps the bars creamy and smooth. Follow the same steps, and you’ll have a tasty vegan treat. Mini bars are fun and easy to serve. Use a muffin tin instead of a baking dish. Line the muffin cups with paper liners. Follow the same crust and filling steps. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until set. These mini bars are perfect for parties or gatherings. They look cute and are easy to grab! To keep your key lime pie bars fresh, store them in the fridge. Place the bars in an airtight container. This will stop them from drying out. You can also cover the dish with plastic wrap. Make sure to seal it tightly. This way, the bars stay moist and tasty for longer. Freezing is a great option for key lime pie bars. First, let them cool completely. Once cooled, slice the bars into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped bars in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can. They can freeze well for up to three months. When stored in the fridge, key lime pie bars last about five days. If you freeze them, they can last three months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If they smell off or have a strange color, it’s best to toss them. Enjoy your treats fresh for that zesty burst of flavor! Yes, you can use regular limes. Regular limes will work in this recipe. They may taste a bit sharper than key limes. Key limes have a sweeter and more aromatic flavor. If you want that classic taste, key limes are best. But don’t worry, your bars will still be tasty with regular limes. You will know the bars are done when the filling is set. The center should have a slight jiggle but not be runny. It usually takes about 15-20 minutes in the oven. The edges may look firm, but the center will still move a little. This means the bars will be creamy and smooth. If you need a substitute for sweetened condensed milk, try evaporated milk with sugar. Mix one cup of evaporated milk with 1 ¼ cups of sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. It will add a nice flavor while keeping the bars rich. You’ve learned how to make delicious Key Lime Pie Bars, from gathering ingredients to baking, cooling, and serving. We discussed tips for a perfect crust and various tasty variations. Remember, a great dessert starts with good prep and the right tools. Store your bars well for freshness or freeze for later. With this easy guide, you can impress your friends and family. Enjoy creating your own sweet treats!

Zesty Key Lime Pie Bars

Delicious and tangy key lime pie bars with a coconut graham cracker crust.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.5 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, melted
  • 0.25 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 0.33 cups fresh key lime juice
  • 2 pieces zest from key limes
  • to taste whipped cream for topping (optional)
  • to garnish lime slices and additional zest

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
  • Firmly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of an 8x8-inch baking dish. Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly.
  • In a separate mixing bowl, whisk the large eggs until frothy. Gradually incorporate the sweetened condensed milk, fresh key lime juice, and lime zest until smooth.
  • Pour the lime filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the filling is set but still jiggles slightly in the center.
  • Let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours.
  • Cut the chilled bars into squares. Top each bar with whipped cream if desired, and garnish with lime slices and extra lime zest.

Notes

For a stunning presentation, arrange the bars on a decorative platter with lime slices artfully placed around the edges.
Keyword coconut, dessert, key lime, pie bars