Key Lime Pie Bars are a zesty, refreshing twist on the classic pie, transformed into convenient, sliceable squares. These citrus-packed bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, tangy lime filling that’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you need a quick and crowd-pleasing dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars offer all the flavor of a traditional key lime pie with less effort and no need for a pie dish. The combination of the rich, buttery crust and the creamy, tart lime filling creates a perfect balance of sweet and sour in every bite. They’re easy to transport, simple to prepare, and guaranteed to be a refreshing favorite. Plus, they set beautifully in the fridge, making them a great make-ahead dessert.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
2 large eggs
Lime zest for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even crust.
In another bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh lime juice, and eggs until smooth and well blended.
Pour the filling over the prepared crust.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set.
Once chilled, garnish with fresh lime zest, cut into squares, and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling)

Variations

Add whipped cream: Top each square with a dollop of whipped cream or a piping of stabilized whipped cream.
Make it tropical: Add a bit of coconut to the crust or topping for a tropical flavor boost.
Use key limes: Traditional key limes provide a distinct tartness. Regular limes work well too if key limes aren’t available.
Crust alternatives: Use crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze the bars (ungarnished) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: These are best served cold or at room temperature—no reheating necessary.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is best for flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch. Make sure it’s 100% lime juice without added sugars.

How do I know when the filling is set?

The filling should be just set with a slight jiggle in the center. It will firm up more as it cools and chills in the fridge.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust to make the recipe gluten-free.

Can I use a different size baking dish?

A slightly larger dish will result in thinner bars, and a smaller one will make thicker bars. Adjust baking time accordingly.

Can I use a food processor to make the crust?

Yes, pulse the graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter in a food processor until well combined.

How long do these need to chill?

At least 2 hours, but overnight chilling will yield the best texture and flavor.

Do I need to blind bake the crust?

No blind baking is needed for this recipe—just press and fill before baking.

Can I use egg substitutes?

For best results, use real eggs. Substitutes may alter the texture of the filling.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase bake time slightly and check for doneness.

What’s the difference between key lime and regular lime?

Key limes are smaller and more aromatic with a tart, floral flavor. Regular limes are more readily available and slightly less tart, but still work well.

Conclusion

Key Lime Pie Bars are a bright and tangy dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for warm-weather treats. With a simple graham cracker crust and a zesty lime filling, these bars deliver bold flavor in a no-fuss format. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just satisfying a citrus craving, these refreshing bars are a guaranteed hit.

Easy Key Lime Pie Bars

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Print Recipe

These Key Lime Pie Bars are a tangy, refreshing take on the classic key lime pie—transformed into easy, sliceable squares. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy, citrus-packed lime filling, they’re the perfect make-ahead dessert for summer parties, potlucks, or any time you’re craving something sweet and zesty. Simple to prepare, easy to transport, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 12 bars

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup fresh lime juice (key lime or regular)

2 large eggs

Lime zest for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even crust.
In another bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and eggs until smooth.
Pour filling over the crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the center is just set.
Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Garnish with lime zest, slice into bars, and serve chilled.

Notes

Make Ahead: Chill overnight for best flavor and texture.
Whipped Topping: Add a dollop of whipped cream just before serving for extra indulgence.
Coconut Twist: Mix shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical variation.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian