Key Lime Bars are a delightful and refreshing treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while bringing a burst of zesty flavor to your dessert table. This smooth and tangy lime custard filling rests on a buttery shortbread crust, creating a heavenly balance of textures. Simple to make yet impressively delicious, these bars are ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or just a night in with friends. The vibrant flavor of key limes combined with the sweetness of sugar makes every bite an exquisite experience.
Not only are these Key Lime Bars delicious, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up. The recipe requires ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, making it a convenient option for last-minute dessert plans. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as they chill in the refrigerator. Whether you serve them chilled on a hot summer day or at room temperature, their bright flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Bars Recipe
- Refreshing Flavor: The tangy sweetness of key limes combined with the creamy filling makes for a light and refreshing dessert.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe can be completed in just over an hour.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or just a regular day, these bars are sure to impress.
- Make-Ahead Option: They can be prepared in advance, making them a great choice for busy schedules.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the tartness or sweetness to suit your personal taste.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making these delightful Key Lime Bars, it’s essential to set up your kitchen and gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) to have the perfect temperature ready for baking. You’ll need a 23×33 cm (9×13-inch) baking pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper, allowing some overhang to easily lift the bars out later, and grease it generously to prevent sticking.
Gather your mixing bowls, a whisk, and a rubber spatula to create a well-mixed and creamy custard filling. A hand mixer or standing mixer will work wonderfully for creaming the butter and sugar, speeding up the process substantially. Lastly, have your measuring cups and spoons at the ready, along with a zester for obtaining those vibrant key lime zests. Once your workspace is prepped and everything is within reach, you’re ready to create a zesty, citrusy masterpiece!
Ingredients
- 227 g unsalted butter, softened
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 250 g all-purpose flour
- 1.25 g (1/4 teaspoon) kosher salt
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 95 g all-purpose flour
- 180 ml key lime juice
- 2 tablespoons key lime zest
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin your baking adventure by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grab your 23×33 cm baking pan and line it with parchment paper. It’s crucial to grease the pan adequately to ensure that when those delicious bars are finished baking, they will slide right out. Set this pan aside for now, as you’ll need it soon.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter for 2–3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This process helps incorporate air, giving your crust an amazing texture. Gradually add in 100 g of granulated sugar and 250 g of all-purpose flour along with 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined. Next, using your fingertips or a spatula, press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. This action resembles forming a crust, so make sure it’s spread out uniformly. Pop the pan into the refrigerator for 15 minutes to chill, which will help it retain its shape when baking. Then, bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the surface turns a light golden color. Allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Step 3: Prepare the Lime Custard Filling
While the crust cools, it’s time to work on the luscious custard filling. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the five large eggs that are at room temperature, 300 g granulated sugar, 95 g all-purpose flour, 180 ml key lime juice, and 2 tablespoons of key lime zest. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is integral because it ensures that the custard will set perfectly and achieve a lovely texture once baked.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
After whisking the custard, pour it on top of the cooled shortbread crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake it at 175°C for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the filling should be just set but still slightly wobbly in the middle. Once ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature. For optimal results, refrigerate the bars until they are cold before slicing them into 16 perfect squares.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding a hint of coconut cream for a tropical twist or replace some eggs with silken tofu for a vegan option.
- Vegetables: For extra nutrition, you can incorporate finely grated zucchini into the crust for added moisture.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the crust can provide a warm flavor profile that complements the lime beautifully.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the eggs are at room temperature before whisking for better incorporation, which leads to a creamier filling.
- Refrigerate your Key Lime Bars for a few hours before serving for a perfectly chilled, refreshing dessert.
- For the freshest taste, squeeze your own key lime juice; it makes a noticeable difference compared to bottled versions!
- Feel free to adjust the sugar levels in the filling based on your sweetness preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with whipped cream and a slice of fresh lime for an extra touch of elegance.
- Combine with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the tartness of the key lime.
Tips
- For a thicker crust, use less lemon juice in the filling.
- Dress the bars with a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving to make them visually appealing.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- If you notice the filling bubbling over, it’s a sign it’s baking well; check for doneness slightly before the time is up.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per bar
- Protein: 4g per bar
- Sodium: 50mg per bar
FAQs
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
While you can use regular limes, key limes have a unique tartness that makes these bars special, so for the best flavor, opt for key limes.
How do I store leftover Key Lime Bars?
Store leftover Key Lime Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious.
Can I freeze Key Lime Bars?
Yes! You can freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, and they should keep well for up to two months.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free key lime bars!
Conclusion
In conclusion, these Key Lime Bars are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of zest and flavor. With the perfect balance of sweet and tart, they’re an irresistible treat that’s bound to steal the spotlight at any gathering. This recipe is easy enough for beginner bakers yet impressive enough to win over seasoned culinary enthusiasts. Make sure to share your own variations and tips in the comments; we’d love to hear how you made this zesty delightful dessert your own. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these delicious Key Lime Bars!
Print
Key Lime Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
Key Lime Bars are a delightful and refreshing treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while bringing a burst of zesty flavor to your dessert table.
Ingredients
- 227 g unsalted butter, softened
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 250 g all-purpose flour
- 1.25 g (1/4 teaspoon) kosher salt
- 5 large eggs, at room temperature
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 95 g all-purpose flour
- 180 ml key lime juice
- 2 tablespoons key lime zest
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Begin your baking adventure by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grab your 23×33 cm baking pan and line it with parchment paper. It’s crucial to grease the pan adequately to ensure that when those delicious bars are finished baking, they will slide right out. Set this pan aside for now, as you’ll need it soon.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter for 2–3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add in 100 g of granulated sugar and 250 g of all-purpose flour along with 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined. Next, using your fingertips or a spatula, press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Pop the pan into the refrigerator for 15 minutes to chill, which will help it retain its shape when baking. Then, bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the surface turns a light golden color. Allow it to cool completely in the pan.
- While the crust cools, it’s time to work on the luscious custard filling. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the five large eggs that are at room temperature, 300 g granulated sugar, 95 g all-purpose flour, 180 ml key lime juice, and 2 tablespoons of key lime zest. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- After whisking the custard, pour it on top of the cooled shortbread crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake it at 175°C for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the filling should be just set but still slightly wobbly in the middle. Once ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool completely to room temperature. For optimal results, refrigerate the bars until they are cold before slicing them into 16 perfect squares.
Notes
Ensure the eggs are at room temperature before whisking for better incorporation. Refrigerate your Key Lime Bars for a few hours before serving for a perfectly chilled, refreshing dessert.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 250 per bar
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Protein: 4 g