Key lime bars are delicious and incredibly easy to make! You only need 8 ingredients and 10 minutes of prep. This recipe is ideal if you are a beginner. With an easy step-by-step guide, you will love how simple and effortless they are to make, and I am sure it will become one of your favorite recipes. By the way, have you tried my lemon bars?
Jump to:
Photo tutorial
In a large mixing bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt just until combined.
Transfer to a paper-lined baking pan and press the crumbs with the back of a measuring cup into the bottom of the pan evenly. Then bake for about 10 minutes and remove from the oven.
While the crust is baking, mix condensed milk and eggs until combined. Add lime juice and zest and stir to combine.
Pour the filling on top of the prebaked crust. Then bake, chill, and serve.
Expert tips for success
- The easiest way to make graham crackers crumbs is by processing the crackers in a food processor. Alternatively, you can place them in a zip-top bag and smash them with a rolling pin.
- Do not mix the filling with an electric mixer. It would incorporate a lot of air bubbles into the filling. Just use a whisk.
- After baking, the filling needs time to set. Let the bars cool completely, then chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours.
Key lime juice substitute
If for some reason you do not have access to fresh key limes you can make a substitution. You would need to use 2 parts regular lime juice and 1 part lemon juice. So, you would need to use ½ cup (118ml) lime juice and ¼ cup (59ml) lemon juice.
Storing
They need to be stored in the fridge in an airtight container. You can use a glass or plastic container, but I prefer glass because it's easier to clean up and doesn't hold onto food odors. They will last 2-3 days in the fridge. If you notice that they have become dried out, overly wet, or mold then they have gone bad and aren't edible any longer.
Freezing
After they are completely cooled and chilled for 3 hours, wrap single bars in plastic wrap or transfer to freezer bags. They freeze well for up to 1 month. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight.
More bar recipes to try
Recipe
Easy Key Lime Bars
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 7 oz graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
OPTIONAL: top with meringue or whipped cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10x7 or 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper with enough overhang on the sides. Set aside.
- Make the crust: In a large mixing bowl stir together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt just until combined. Transfer to the prepared baking pan and press the crumbs with the back of a measuring cup into the bottom of the pan evenly. Bake for about 10 minutes. Remove from oven.
- Make the filling: While the crust is baking, mix condensed milk and eggs until combined. Add lime juice and zest and stir to combine. Pour on top of the prebaked crust. Bake for about 15 minutes until filling is set. Let cool to room temperature then transfer to the fridge and chill at least 3 hours.
Notes
Video
You can find the video in the post above. If you don't see a video, please check your browser settings.
pauline
Made today for arvo tea; with limes fresh from a neighbours tree. Well received by guests.
Marie
Wow! These look wonderful. I’ve never tried key lime pie or bars or anything but can’t wait to try this
Sabine
Thank you so much, Marie! You need to try this recipe soon. You're going to love key lime anything. Have the best weekend.
Coley
These look absolutely incredible Sabine!
Sabine
Thank you so much, Coley!
cakespy
Oh my god, these look incredible. I'm absolutely amazed that they can be prepared so quickly! Key lime is one of my go-to dessert flavors.
Sabine
Thank you so much. Easy and quick baking recipes are always a win! Key lime is one of my favorite flavors too.