Zesty Key Lime Bars 💚
These delightful Zesty Key Lime Bars are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, vibrant lime filling. An easy and refreshing dessert for any occasion!
Equipment
- 8x8 inch square baking pan
- Foil
- Nonstick Cooking Spray
- Small Bowl
- Wire Rack
- Medium Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.25 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 3 Tablespoons light brown sugar
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted
Zesty Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened at room temperature
- 1 Tablespoon fresh grated lime zest
- 0.125 teaspoon salt
- 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 large egg yolk
- 0.5 cup fresh Key lime juice
Optional Garnishes
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh whipped cream
- Lime wedges
- Fresh raspberries
- Toasted coconut
Instructions
PREPARE THE PAN:
Get your oven ready by moving the rack to the middle and preheating to 325°F.- Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with two sheets of foil, making sure there's enough overhang on all sides for easy lifting later. Lightly spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray, then set your prepared pan aside.
MAKE THE CRUST:
In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, light brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well mixed and the crumbs are evenly moistened with the butter.- Pour the crumb mixture into your prepared pan and use your hands to firmly press it into an even layer at the bottom.
- Bake the crust for about 16-20 minutes, or until it's beautifully deep golden brown. Do not turn off the oven! Carefully move the baked crust to a wire rack to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
MAKE THE FILLING:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, lime zest, and salt until the mixture is super creamy and smooth.- Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolk, and Key lime juice, then continue to whisk until everything is perfectly combined and silky smooth.
BAKE, CHILL, AND SLICE:
Carefully pour the creamy Key lime filling over your slightly cooled crust, gently tilting the pan to spread it into an even layer.- Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set (it should only jiggle slightly in the center).
- Move the baked Key Lime Bars to a wire rack and let them cool completely to room temperature, which will take about an hour. Once cooled, cover the pan with foil and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow them to set up perfectly.
- When you're ready to serve, use the foil overhang to easily lift the entire bar from the pan. Slice into 9 delicious squares.
TO FINISH:
Serve your Key Lime Bars as is for a simple treat, or add a light dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of fresh whipped cream, or some fresh fruit like raspberries or a lime wedge for a delightful touch.
Notes
Nutrition Information (per bar): Calories: 305kcal, Total Carbs: 39g (Net Carbs: 38.5g), Fats: 15g, Protein: 6g. Optional garnishes are not included in the nutrition information.
