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Bright, tangy bars featuring a crisp, buttery graham cracker crust and a creamy lime filling made from sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, fresh lime juice, and lime zest. A portable and easy-to-serve form of classic Key West dessert.

  • Total Time: 1 hour including cooling time
  • Yield: 16-20 bars (depending on cut size) 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (can use fresh, honey, cinnamon-flavored, or gluten-free crackers)
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • Granulated sugar (quantity unspecified, used for crust)
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (approx. 14 ounces)
  • ½ cup fresh key lime juice (or Persian lime juice as substitute)
  • Lime zest (quantity unspecified, for filling and garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs, ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar (quantity not specified but used to sweeten the crust). Mix until crumbs are evenly moistened and hold together when pressed.
  3. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom (and sides if desired) of the prepared pan to about ¼-inch thickness, compacting gently but firmly for an even layer.
  4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes until crisp and lightly golden. Monitor closely to avoid burning. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk 4 large egg yolks until creamy using a mixer or whisk.
  6. Add 1 can sweetened condensed milk to the egg yolks and mix until combined.
  7. Incorporate ½ cup fresh key lime juice and lime zest (amount unspecified) into the mixture. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
  8. Pour the lime filling over the cooled graham cracker crust and spread evenly with a rubber or offset spatula.
  9. Bake the filled pan at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes until edges are lightly golden and filling is set but still creamy. Avoid overbaking.
  10. Remove from oven and let bars cool completely in pan. Once cooled, lift bars out using parchment paper and cut into squares for serving.

Notes

Use fresh key limes when possible for the brightest flavor; Persian limes may be substituted but have a different flavor profile., Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling to maintain crispness and distinct layers., Cool the baked bars fully before cutting to ensure clean portions and proper filling texture., Variations include toppings like chocolate ganache, toasted coconut flakes, candied lime peel, macadamia nut crumble, blood orange zest, passion fruit swirl, or seasonal fruits., For gluten-free variation, use gluten-free graham crackers such as Pamela’s., Bars can be stored in the refrigerator for 3–5 days in an airtight container or frozen individually for up to 3 months., Thaw frozen bars at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before serving; add garnish like whipped cream or lime zest if desired.

  • Author: Ashley
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-28 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American (Key West-inspired)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (approximately 2-inch square)
  • Calories: Approximately 200 calories per bar (estimate, varies by ingredient brands and portion size)
  • Fat: 9 grams per serving (estimate)
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams per serving (estimate)
  • Protein: 4 grams per serving (estimate)