There’s something mesmerizing about a beautiful summer day, sunshine glistening on the water, and the gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore. Okay, I might be dreaming a little, but when I think of the perfect sweet treat to enjoy on those sunny days, Key Lime Cookie Bars come to mind.
Whether it’s a cookout, a beach picnic, or just a lazy Sunday in your backyard, these bars are a delightful addition that’ll have everyone begging for the recipe. Serve them up with a tall glass of iced tea, and you’ve got a classic summer moment!
Key Lime Cookie Bars bring together the best of both worlds: the refreshing taste of key lime and the satisfying crunch of a graham cracker crust, all while being incredibly easy to whip up. This dessert is like a hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion from a casual gathering to a festive celebration.
You Might Like These Recipes!
Raisin Sauce For Dessert Recipe
Jumbo Chocolate Muffins Recipe
What are Key Lime Cookie Bars?
Key Lime Cookie Bars are a sweet and tangy dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust that acts as the perfect base. The filling is a luscious mixture of cream cheese, egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, and the star ingredient, key lime juice. When baked to perfection, you get a sliceable treat that’s satisfying and full of that iconic key lime flavor. They’re often garnished with whipped cream and lime slices for that extra touch of summer goodness.
How Does It Taste?
These bars are an explosion of flavors. You get the initial sweetness from the graham cracker and sweetened condensed milk, followed by that zesty punch of lime. The creaminess of the filling contrasts beautifully with the crunchy crust, creating a delightful texture that will keep you going back for more. It’s like a little slice of tropical paradise with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it combines simplicity with sensational flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy bakers like me who want a delicious dessert without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, the fact that you can make them ahead of time means they’ll be ready to dazzle your friends and family whenever you need them.
The Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make these tasty delights:
Crust
– 12 full-sheet graham crackers, crushed (yielding about 1 ½ cups of crumbs)
– 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
Filling
– 4 ounces (113 grams) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
– 4 large egg yolks
– 14-ounce (397 grams) can of sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 2 teaspoons lime zest (about 1 key lime or 2 regular limes)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (new addition for flavor)
– Optional for garnish: Whipped cream and lime wedges
Ingredients From : sallysbakingaddiction.com
How to Make Key Lime Cookie Bars?
Ready to dive into making these delectable treats? Let’s go through the steps to create your very own Key Lime Cookie Bars.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This makes it super easy to lift the bars out later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers into fine crumbs. If you don’t have one, go the old-school route: place the crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and combine until it resembles a sandy mixture.
Step 3: Press the Crust into the Pan
Transfer the crumb mixture into the lined baking pan. Using the back of a measuring cup or your fingers, press it into an even layer at the bottom of the pan. You want it compact for that perfect crust!
Step 4: Prebake the Crust
Pop the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. This step helps give your crust a nice, firm base. After baking, let it cool for a few minutes while you mix up the filling.
Step 5: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth. This usually takes no more than a minute. Then add in the egg yolks individually, ensuring each one is well incorporated.
Next, mix in the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until smooth. Make sure to scrape down any bits from the sides of the bowl to eliminate lumps of cream cheese.
Step 6: Pour the Filling Over the Crust
Once your filling is nicely blended, pour it onto the warm crust, smoothing it out evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Filling
Return the pan to the oven and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly.
Step 8: Cool and Chill
Take the bars out of the oven and let them cool down for about 30 minutes on a wire rack. Then, chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours until they’re completely set.
Step 9: Serve
To serve, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut them into squares and garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, additional lime slices, or a sprinkle of lime zest for that extra flair.
Tips On Making Key Lime Cookie Bars
– Use Fresh Key Limes: If you can, use fresh key limes for the juice and zest. They offer a much more vibrant taste compared to bottled versions.
– Don’t Overmix the Filling: Just mix until everything is well combined to prevent incorporating too much air, which can affect the texture.
– Chill Thoroughly: Make sure to let the bars chill before serving. It helps them set properly for that firm yet creamy texture.
– Make Ahead: These bars can be made a day in advance. The flavors tend to meld together beautifully overnight!
– Experiment with Toppings: While whipped cream and lime slices are classic, consider adding crushed graham crackers or even toasted coconut on top for a fun variation.
Storage Tips
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to make them in advance, they freeze well too. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Just thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Serving Suggestions
– With Fresh Berries: Pair these tangy bars with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a colorful presentation.
– Ice Cream on the Side: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
– Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for added flavor and texture.
– Drizzle of Lime Sauce: Create a quick lime reduction sauce for drizzling over the bars for an extra flavor punch.
– Garnish with Mint: Add fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and fresh aroma.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Key Lime Cookie Bars?
– Graham Cracker Alternative: Use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies if you’re looking for a different flavor in the crust.
– Cream Cheese Substitute: For a lighter version, use Neufchâtel cheese instead of cream cheese.
– Non-Dairy Substitute: If you need a dairy-free option, coconut cream or cashew cream can work beautifully.
– Sugar Alternative: You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like erythritol for a lower-calorie version.
– Lime Juice Substitute: If key limes aren’t available, regular limes or lemons can be a great alternative, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Key Lime Cookie Bars
Equipment
- 9-inch square baking pan
- Food processor or blender
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
Ingredients
- Here’s what you need to make these tasty delights:
Crust
- – 12 full-sheet graham crackers crushed (yielding about 1 ½ cups of crumbs)
- – 6 tablespoons 85 grams unsalted butter, melted
- – 1/4 cup 50 grams granulated sugar
Filling
- – 4 ounces 113 grams full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- – 4 large egg yolks
- – 14-ounce 397 grams can of sweetened condensed milk
- – 1/2 cup 120 milliliters freshly squeezed key lime juice
- – 2 teaspoons lime zest about 1 key lime or 2 regular limes
- – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract new addition for flavor
- – Optional for garnish: Whipped cream and lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This makes it super easy to lift the bars out later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
- In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers into fine crumbs. If you don’t have one, go the old-school route: place the crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and combine until it resembles a sandy mixture.
Step 3: Press the Crust into the Pan
- Transfer the crumb mixture into the lined baking pan. Using the back of a measuring cup or your fingers, press it into an even layer at the bottom of the pan. You want it compact for that perfect crust!
Step 4: Prebake the Crust
- Pop the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. This step helps give your crust a nice, firm base. After baking, let it cool for a few minutes while you mix up the filling.
Step 5: Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth. This usually takes no more than a minute. Then add in the egg yolks individually, ensuring each one is well incorporated. Next, mix in the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract until smooth. Make sure to scrape down any bits from the sides of the bowl to eliminate lumps of cream cheese.
Step 6: Pour the Filling Over the Crust
- Once your filling is nicely blended, pour it onto the warm crust, smoothing it out evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Filling
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly.
Step 8: Cool and Chill
- Take the bars out of the oven and let them cool down for about 30 minutes on a wire rack. Then, chill in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours until they’re completely set.
Step 9: Serve
- To serve, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut them into squares and garnish with a dollop of whipped cream, additional lime slices, or a sprinkle of lime zest for that extra flair.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use bottled key lime juice?
Yes, you can use bottled key lime juice if fresh limes are not available. However, fresh key lime juice has a distinct flavor that can elevate the bars immensely.
2. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Check for set edges and a slightly jiggly center. It’s okay for the middle to be a little softer as it will firm up while cooling.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Double the ingredients and use a larger pan if you want to make a bigger batch. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
4. What can I do if my bars are too sweet?
Consider reducing the sugar in the crust by a tablespoon or two next time you make them. The tartness from the lime is important and can often balance sweetness!
5. How long will these bars last?
In the fridge, they will last for about five days. If frozen, they can stay fresh for up to two months.
Conclusion
Key Lime Cookie Bars offer a delicious and refreshing way to satisfy your sweet tooth. They’re a breeze to make, yet they’ll impress everyone at your next gathering. With their creamy filling and crunchy crust, they’re the ultimate summer treat.
So, grab your fresh limes and start baking—you won’t regret it, and your tastebuds will thank you! Happy baking!
You Might Also Like These Latest Recipes!
Jumbo Chocolate Muffins Recipe
My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more