Easy Key Lime Bars with Creamy Filling

🔥 KITCHEN FINDS

3 Clever Kitchen Gadgets Worth Checking Out

These handy little gadgets make cooking easier — and they're actually pretty cool.

This Kitchen Gadget Sprays AND Pours Oil

One bottle for spraying, pouring and keeping cooking oil close at hand.

Check It Out on Amazon →

This Weird Little Tool Slices Watermelon for You

Slice, cube and grab watermelon with one ridiculously simple little gadget.

Check It Out on Amazon →

Mix & Pour Pancake Batter Without the Mess

Mix the batter right in the bottle, then squeeze it straight onto the griddle.

Check It Out on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Easy Key Lime Bars with Creamy Filling

These Easy Key Lime Bars with Creamy Filling are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of summer. With a buttery shortbread crust and a tangy, creamy lime filling, these bars are not only refreshing but also simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving something sweet, these bars will satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

📚 RECIPE LOVER FINDS

Love Trying New Recipes? Check These Out

Save your favorites, discover something different, or make meal planning a whole lot easier.

❤️ Love This Recipe? Save Your Favorites

Keep all those recipes you actually want to make again together in your own recipe book.

See It on Amazon →

🔥 Yep, Snoop Dogg Has a Cookbook

From Crook to Cook brings Snoop's spin to comfort food, classics and seriously fun recipes.

Check It Out on Amazon →

🥗 100+ Meals You Can Make Ahead

Simple make-ahead recipes and quick-assembly meals for making the week way easier.

See It on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

This recipe is a must-try for several reasons. It’s straightforward, delicious, and a refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather.

• Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• Bright, zesty flavor that’s both sweet and tart.
• Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner.
• Easy to cut into squares for serving and sharing.
• Can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient dessert option.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Fresh lime wedges, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Key Lime Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined. The mixture should be crumbly.
3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and combined.
5. Pour the lime filling over the baked crust and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
6. Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set completely.
7. Once chilled and set, cut into squares and garnish with fresh lime wedges if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh key limes for the best flavor; bottled juice can be more acidic.
• Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
• Allow the bars to chill completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
• If you want a sweeter filling, you can adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to taste.

Easy Variations

• For a coconut twist, add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the crust mixture.
• Swap key lime juice for regular lime juice for a different flavor profile.
• Add a layer of meringue on top and broil for a toasted finish.
• Mix in a few drops of green food coloring to enhance the visual appeal.

What to Serve With It

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Fresh fruit salad for a light and refreshing side.
• A dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
• Iced tea or lemonade for a perfect beverage pairing.

Storage and Reheating

Store the Key Lime Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy after freezing, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Recipe Card