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Creamy Key Lime Pie Bars

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These creamy key lime pie bars feature a zesty key lime filling with a rich, buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for a quick and easy homemade citrus dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, finely crushed)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup fresh key lime juice (about 4–6 key limes)
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Whipped cream or powdered sugar for garnish (optional)
  • Thin lime slices or zest for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until evenly coated. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
  3. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until golden and slightly firm. Let cool slightly.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Slowly whisk in sweetened condensed milk until fully incorporated.
  6. Add fresh key lime juice and vanilla extract, stirring gently until the mixture thickens slightly.
  7. Pour the filling over the baked crust and spread evenly. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
  8. Bake for 15-18 minutes until edges are set but center still jiggles slightly.
  9. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  10. Use parchment paper overhang to lift bars from pan. Slice with a warm, clean knife.
  11. Serve chilled with whipped cream and lime zest or slices if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for smooth filling. Do not overbake the filling to avoid cracks; it should jiggle slightly in the center when done. Chill bars for at least 2 hours for best texture. Use a warm knife for clean slicing. Fresh key lime juice is preferred for best flavor. For dairy-free or gluten-free options, substitute ingredients as noted in the recipe.

Nutrition

Keywords: key lime pie bars, creamy key lime bars, citrus dessert, easy dessert bars, homemade key lime bars

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/creamy-key-lime-pie-bars-recipe-easy-homemade-citrus-dessert-bars/