Description
These Key Lime Pie Bars offer a delightful twist on the classic pie, combining a buttery vanilla wafer crust with a tangy lime custard filling, topped with a fluffy whipped cream layer. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, they are an easy-to-make dessert ideal for gatherings or anytime you crave a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups vanilla wafer cookies, finely ground
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
Filling
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 5 large egg yolks
- 22 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
Topping
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, blend the finely ground vanilla wafer cookies with melted butter and light brown sugar until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into a greased 9×9 inch baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow the crust to cool completely.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lime zest and egg yolks until smooth and fragrant. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk while continuing to whisk until the mixture is uniform. Finally, stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice completely.
- Bake the Filling: Pour the lime filling over the cooled crust in the baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. After baking, let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to fully chill and set.
- Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping: Using a mixer, whip the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread or pipe the whipped cream evenly over the chilled lime bars.
- Serve: Slice into 16 bars and serve chilled for a refreshing and delicious dessert.
Notes
- Ensure the crust is fully cooled before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- The filling should still be slightly jiggly when coming out of the oven to ensure a creamy texture after chilling.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best authentic citrus flavor.
- Optionally garnish with extra lime zest or thin lime slices for decoration.
