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Easy Key Lime Bars Recipe

Easy Key Lime Bars Recipe

Creamy, tangy key lime bars on a buttery graham cracker crust. Simple to make with pantry staples and fresh lime juice for a bright, refreshing treat.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16
Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar for crust
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 0.125 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 4 large egg yolks room temperature
  • 28 ounce sweetened condensed milk two 14-ounce cans
  • 0.25 cup sour cream room temperature
  • 0.75 cup fresh key lime juice or regular lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest finely grated
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream cold, for topping
  • 2 tablespoon powdered sugar for topping
  • 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract optional, for topping
  • 0.5 teaspoon lime zest for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment, leaving overhang for easy lifting.
  • Make the crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles damp sand.
  • Press crust firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool 5 minutes while you make the filling.
  • Make the filling: Whisk egg yolks until slightly thickened and pale, about 1 minute. Whisk in sweetened condensed milk and sour cream until smooth. Fold in lime zest and whisk in lime juice until the mixture thickens slightly.
  • Pour filling over the warm crust and smooth the top. Tap the pan gently to release air bubbles.
  • Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges are set and the center has a slight wobble. Do not overbake.
  • Cool on a rack for 30 minutes, then refrigerate until fully chilled and set, at least 2 hours.
  • Whipped topping: Beat cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
  • Lift bars from the pan using parchment, slice into 16 squares, and top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest.

Notes

For the brightest flavor, use freshly squeezed key lime juice. Regular Persian limes also work. Bars slice cleanest when well chilled. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.