What pairs well with key lime pie bars?

Key lime pie bars recipes have a zesty, creamy profile that pairs beautifully with both fresh and rich accompaniments. Try serving them with: Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a tart-sweet balance Toasted coconut flakes for a tropical edge Mint leaves or basil for a fragrant herbal touch Light drinks like iced green tea , sparkling water with lime , or even a Moscato These pairings help balance the tangy richness of the lime filling and enhance your dessert table overall.

What is a fun fact about key lime pie?

Here’s a sweet slice of history: the original key lime pie was a no-bake dessert! Early recipes from the Florida Keys relied on the acidity of the lime juice to "cook" the filling—no oven required. Another fun fact? Key limes were once shipped across the U.S. in wooden crates marked “fragile and essential” because of their delicate nature and bold flavor. That’s how treasured they were!

Can I use regular lime juice instead of key lime juice for a key lime pie?

Yes, but with a caveat. While regular Persian limes work in a pinch, true key lime juice offers a more intense aroma and a slightly sweeter, floral flavor. If using regular limes: Add a little extra zest to brighten the flavor. Or blend half lemon juice + half lime juice to mimic the tangy balance of key limes. For best results in key lime pie bars recipes , we always recommend using bottled key lime juice like Nellie & Joe’s if fresh isn’t available.

What is the difference between a key lime pie and a Florida key lime pie?

It comes down to toppings and regional style. Both use the same creamy lime filling, but: Classic Key Lime Pie Florida Key Lime Pie Typically topped with whipped cream Often finished with a baked meringue topping May use bottled lime juice Purists use freshly squeezed Key limes only Variations allowed (bars, no-bake) Strict adherence to tradition and lime source

Key Lime Pie Bars Recipes – The Best Easy & Creamy Dessert Ever

Description

Key lime pie bars recipes made easy! Creamy filling, graham crust & pro tips. Your go-to citrus dessert for every occasion.

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust:

▢1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets, crushed)
▢1/3 cup granulated sugar
▢6 Tablespoons butter , melted

Key lime filling:

▢2 14 ounce cans sweetened condensed milk
▢4 ounces cream cheese , softened
▢3/4 cup key lime juice
▢zest of 2 regular limes , or 4 key limes
▢fresh whipped cream , for topping, optional

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Make Crust: For the crust, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter and press into an 8” square baking pan.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes. Allow to cool before adding filling.

Filling: Add cream cheese to a mixing bowl then beat well with electric beaters until smooth. Add both cans of sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest then mix again until smooth.

Bake: Pour over prepared graham cracker crust and bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes. Allow to cool for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, before serving.

Serve: Top with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, if desired.

Notes

Lime Juice: There are 2 ways you can get key lime juice for this recipe. Juice about 20 of your own small key limes, OR I always use Nellie and Joe’s Key Lime Juice (available at most grocery stores) in the bottle.

Make Ahead Instructions: The bars can be made up to 3 days ahead of time, stored in the fridge. The graham cracker pie crust could be made several days ahead, stored at room temperature or in the fridge.

To Freeze: Cover pan tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Prep Time: 75 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Category: Citrus desserts
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 12
Calories: 153
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 144mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 0.4g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 25mg