Key Lime Bars Graham Crust

The sun was blazing through my kitchen window last July when I realized I had invited eight people over for a barbecue and had zero dessert prepared. I spotted a bag of key limes tucked in the back of my produce drawer—thank you, past self for that impulse buy—and somehow these bars became the hero of the evening.

My sister took one bite and immediately asked for the recipe, which is basically the highest compliment she can pay anything I make. We ended up sitting on the back porch way past midnight, picking at the last few bars on the platter and talking about everything and nothing at all.

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: I pulse whole crackers in the food processor for the most even texture, though crushing them in a ziplock works too
• Unsalted butter: Melt it completely and let it cool slightly so it binds everything together without making the crust soggy
• Egg yolks: Separate them carefully when cold but let them come to room temperature before whisking for maximum volume
• Sweetened condensed milk: This is the magic ingredient that makes the filling silky smooth without needing any gelatin or cornstarch
• Key lime juice: Fresh juice gives you that bright floral note that bottled stuff just cannot replicate
• Salt: Just a pinch wakes up all the flavors and keeps the sweetness from becoming cloying

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 350°F and line your baking pan with parchment paper so those overhangs become handles later

Build the crust foundation:

Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until it feels like damp sand, then press firmly into the pan using the bottom of a measuring cup

Give it a quick bake:

Eight to ten minutes until you catch that golden color and smell the toasted graham crackers filling your kitchen

Whisk up the magic filling:

Beat those yolks until they look pale and thick, then fold in the condensed milk followed by the lime juice and zest

Bake until just set:

Fifteen to seventeen minutes and the center should still have a little wobble like a gentle wave

Patience is the final ingredient:

Let them cool completely then chill for at least two hours or the bars will fall apart when you cut them

Save to Pinterest

These bars have become my go-to for every potluck and birthday since that summer day. There is something about that bright green color flecked with zest that makes people smile before they even take a bite.

Making Them Ahead

The flavors actually deepen overnight, so I often make these a full day before serving. They keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days, though they have never lasted that long at my house.

Getting Clean Cuts

Run your knife under hot water and wipe it clean between each slice for those picture perfect edges. A cold, sharp knife also works wonders—just do not saw back and forth or you will crush the crust.

Serving Ideas

Sometimes I top these with billowy whipped cream and a little extra zest for company. For weeknight treats, they are perfect just as they are—maybe a tiny dollop of cream if I am feeling fancy.

• Try substituting regular limes if key limes are out of season or out of your budget
• A graham cracker crust made from chocolate cookies adds a whole new dimension
• These freeze surprisingly well for up to a month if you wrap them tightly

Save to Pinterest

Hope these bright little bars bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine. Happy baking, friend.

Common Questions

→ What is the best way to press the graham cracker crust?

Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press the mixture evenly and firmly into the pan for a compact crust.

→ Can regular lime juice be used instead of key lime juice?

Yes, regular lime juice can substitute key lime juice, but the flavor will be slightly less tart and aromatic.

→ How can I tell when the filling is set?

The center should appear slightly jiggly but not liquid after baking and will firm up further when chilled.

→ Is it necessary to chill the bars before serving?

Chilling for at least two hours helps the filling firm up and enhances the flavors, making the bars easier to slice.

→ Can these bars be made gluten-free?

Yes, using gluten-free graham crackers in the crust makes the bars suitable for gluten-free diets.

→ What garnish pairs well with these bars?

Whipped cream and extra lime zest or thin lime slices add creamy texture and fresh citrus notes to the bars.