Why You’ll Love The Best Key Lime Pie Bars Recipe

I love this recipe because the texture is unbelievably smooth and the flavor hits that perfect sweet-sour balance. I like that these bars are easier to serve than a traditional pie and feel just as special. They’re refreshing, elegant, and always a hit whenever I make them.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Graham Cracker Crust
1 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs, about 15 graham crackers
6 Tablespoons salted butter, melted
1/3 cup granulated sugar

Key Lime Filling
6 egg yolks, room temperature
1 tablespoon key lime zest
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
2 – 14 oz cans sweetened condensed milk
1 cup fresh key lime juice, about 25 key limes
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Whipped Topping
4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 1/2 cups heavy cream, cold

Directions

I begin by preheating my oven to 350°F. I grease and line an 8×8-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides so the bars are easy to lift out later.

To make the crust, I mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture looks sandy and holds together when pressed. I spread it evenly into the prepared pan and press it firmly into an even layer. I bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely. I reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.

For the filling, I add the egg yolks, key lime zest, and vanilla to a large bowl and beat them with an electric mixer for a full 3 minutes until pale and fluffy. I add the cream cheese and beat for another 2 minutes until completely smooth. I mix in the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and salt on low speed until silky and fully combined.

I pour the filling over the cooled crust and bake for about 20 minutes, until the edges are set and the center still jiggles slightly. I let the bars cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate them for at least 4 hours or overnight.

To make the topping, I beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth, then slowly add the cold heavy cream and beat until medium-stiff peaks form. I spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled bars and refrigerate uncovered for another 30 minutes.

To serve, I lift the bars out using the parchment paper, slice them cleanly, and garnish with lime zest if desired.

Servings and Timing

I make this recipe to yield 16 bars. Prep time takes about 20 minutes, bake time is around 20 minutes, and total time comes to roughly 40 minutes, not including chilling time.

Variations

I sometimes add extra lime zest for a bolder citrus flavor. When I want a slightly sweeter crust, I increase the sugar just a bit. I also enjoy topping these bars with toasted coconut for a tropical twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store these key lime pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I serve them chilled and don’t reheat them, since the texture is best when cold.

FAQs

Why do I need to whip the egg yolks so long?

I find this step creates the ultra-silky texture that makes these bars special.

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

I can, though the flavor will be slightly less aromatic.

Why should the filling jiggle slightly after baking?

I like a slight jiggle because the filling continues to set as it chills.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

I usually make them the day before since they need time to chill anyway.

How do I get clean slices?

I use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.

Can I freeze key lime pie bars?

I freeze them without the whipped topping and add it fresh later.

Is the filling very tart?

I find it perfectly balanced, not overpoweringly sour.

Can I double the recipe?

I double it using a 9×13 pan and slightly increase bake time.

Why use cream cheese in the filling?

I like that it adds body and smoothness to the filling.

Do these need to stay refrigerated?

Yes, I always keep them chilled until serving.

Conclusion

These key lime pie bars are one of my absolute favorite desserts because they’re creamy, refreshing, and incredibly satisfying. I love how the crisp crust, silky filling, and fluffy topping come together into a treat that feels special, bright, and perfect for any warm-weather occasion.