Description
These tangy and sweet Key Lime Bars feature a buttery, crumbly crust topped with a smooth, zesty key lime filling. Perfectly balanced with tart lime juice and a hint of zest, these bars make a refreshing dessert ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons Key lime zest
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/3 cup Key lime juice
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×11 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prepare for the crust.
- Combine crust ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until evenly combined.
- Incorporate butter: Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut in 1 cup of softened unsalted butter to the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to set and lightly brown.
- Prepare the filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons Key lime zest, 1/3 cup Key lime juice, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder in a large bowl until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour filling and bake: Pour the lime filling over the pre-baked crust and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and firm to the touch.
- Cool and finish: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar evenly over the top and cut into 12 squares.
- Optional garnish: Top each bar with thin slices of fresh Key lime for an extra burst of citrus flavor and an attractive presentation.
Notes
- Use fresh Key limes if available for the most authentic flavor; regular limes can be substituted but the taste will be less distinctive.
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing into the crust.
- To ensure a clean cut, refrigerate the bars before slicing or use a sharp knife dipped in hot water.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
