Key Lime Pie Bars are made with a graham cracker crust and tangy lime filling then topped with cool whip for a delicious dessert the whole family will love.
From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito
I saw these Key Lime Pie Bars floating around online and immediately knew I had to try them and I’m so glad I did. They’re everything you love about classic key lime pie but way easier to make and serve. No fuss, no stress, just straight up delicious.
This dessert comes together quickly with simple ingredients and very little effort. They’re refreshing, creamy, and ideal for parties, holidays, or when you just want a dessert that feels special without a ton of work.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dessert. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.
- Graham Crackers – Create the classic, slightly sweet crunch that anchors the bars.
- Butter – Holds the crust together and adds rich flavor.
- Sugar – Sweetens both the crust and the filling while balancing the tart lime.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Gives the filling its signature creamy texture and sweetness.
- Egg Yolks – Help the filling set and add richness.
- Sour Cream- Adds tang and extra creaminess that balances the sweetness and enhances the lime flavor.
- Vanilla- Rounds out the citrus with warmth and depth, making the filling taste richer and more balanced.
- Key Lime Juice (or Lime Juice)– Brings the bright, tangy flavor that defines the dessert. If you cant find Key Limes, you can purchase a bottle of Key Lime Juice HERE.
- Lime Zest – Intensifies the citrus flavor and adds freshness.
- Salt – Sharpens all the flavors and keeps the bars from tasting flat.
- Cool Whip- Adds light and creamy finish.
How To Make It
Here’s how to make these delicious key lime pie bars. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions on the recipe card below.
Preheat the oven to 350°
First, crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9 x 13” baking dish. Place it into the center rack of the oven for 10 minutes and let it cool. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°.
Now, in a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, vanilla, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. Whisk the egg yolks in a small bowl, then mix in a little of the filling so they blend smoothly. Pour everything back into the main bowl. Whisk until creamy and well combined.
Then, pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Place it into the center rack of the oven for for 18-20 minutes or just until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Finally, let it cool completely, then spread the cool whip evenly on top. Garnish with more lime zest, refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Serve chilled and enjoy!
PRO TIP: A sharp knife that’s wiped clean between cuts will give you bakery style slices.
Do I Have To Use Key Limes?
No, you don’t regular limes work perfectly and are much easier to find. Key limes are slightly more tart but most people won’t notice a difference once they’re baked. You can purchase Key Lime Juice HERE.
Can I Use Bottled Lime Juice?
Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled key lime juice will work in a pinch.
Can I Make These Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely! They’re actually even better the next day once fully chilled.
Storage
Place the cooled bars in a food safe air tight container. They will last in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dessert freezes well, too. Place them into a freezer safe air tight container and they will last for up to two months. Thaw completely before serving.
Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe
Equipment
- 9" x 13" baking dish
Ingredients
- 25 Graham Crackers
- 1 Stick Butter, melted
- Pinch Salt
- 1 Tbs Sugar
- 3 (14 Oz) Cans Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 1 Cup Sour Cream
- 1 Cup Key Lime or Lime Juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 Tbs Lime Zest (divided)
- 2 Egg Yolks, beaten
- 1 Tbs Vanilla
- 8 Oz Cool Whip
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°
- Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9 x 13” baking dish. Place it into the center rack of the oven for 10 minutes and let it cool. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°.
- In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, vanilla, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. Whisk the egg yolks in a small bowl, then mix in a little of the filling so they blend smoothly. Pour everything back into the main bowl and whisk until creamy and well combined.
- Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Place it into the center rack of the oven for for 18-20 minutes or just until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Finally, let it cool completely, then spread the cool whip evenly on top. Garnish with more lime zest, refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Other Easy Dessert Recipes
If you like super easy to make dessert recipes like this one, you have to try these Boston Cream Poke Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookie Delight and Pina Colada Poke Cake.
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