Key Lime Bars Citrus are the ultimate refreshing dessert, perfect for any occasion, especially during the hot summer months. This delightful treat features a buttery shortbread crust paired with a tangy key lime custard filling that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. With a combination of zesty key lime juice and creamy custard, these bars offer a unique twist on traditional key lime pie. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or simply looking for a quick dessert to enjoy at home, these key lime bars will not disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Key Lime Bars Citrus

There are countless reasons to adore these Key Lime Bars. First and foremost, they deliver a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making them an irresistible option for dessert lovers. Secondly, their vibrant green color adds a festive touch to any gathering. These Citrus Dessert Bars are also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and time in the kitchen. Additionally, they can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your event. Not to mention, they cater to various dietary preferences as they are vegetarian-friendly. Lastly, the versatility of these bars allows you to experiment with different toppings, such as whipped cream or coconut, enhancing the overall experience!

Ingredients for Key Lime Bars Citrus

Gather these items:

227 g unsalted butter, softened
100 g granulated sugar
250 g all-purpose flour
1.25 g (1/4 teaspoon) kosher salt
5 large eggs, at room temperature
300 g granulated sugar
95 g all-purpose flour
180 ml key lime juice
2 tablespoons key lime zest
Powdered sugar, for dusting

How to Make Key Lime Bars Citrus Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 175°C. Line a 23×33 cm baking pan with parchment paper and grease thoroughly. Set aside.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer. Add granulated sugar and flour. Mix until combined.
Step 3: Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan using your fingers. Chill for 15 minutes, then bake for 15–20 minutes until the surface is lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, key lime juice, and key lime zest until smooth and fully combined.
Step 5: Pour custard mixture over the cooled shortbread crust. Bake at 175°C for 25–30 minutes until the filling is just set. Remove pan from oven and allow bars to cool completely.
Step 6: For best results, refrigerate until cold. Dust with powdered sugar, slice into 16 bars, and serve chilled or at room temperature.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Key Lime Bars Citrus

Keep these in mind:

Chill bars before serving for better texture.
Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of sugar to suit your taste.
For a twist, consider adding shredded coconut on top for a Key Lime Bars with Coconut Topping experience.
Ensure that your key lime juice is fresh for the best flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Key Lime Bars Citrus

There are many creative ways to serve these bars. For a delightful twist, try serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side. You can also add fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, to complement the tart lime flavor. Whether it’s for a summer barbecue or a family gathering, these Citrus Flavored Bars will impress your guests!

How to Store and Reheat Key Lime Bars Citrus

To keep your delicious bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week. If you prefer them warm, simply reheat them in the oven at a low temperature or enjoy them chilled. Remember, these bars are perfect for meal prep, so feel free to make them ahead and have a refreshing dessert ready to go!

Frequently Asked Questions About Key Lime Bars Citrus

What’s the secret to perfect Key Lime Bars Citrus?

The secret lies in using fresh key lime juice and zest to achieve that perfect tartness, which elevates these bars from good to amazing.

Can I make Key Lime Bars Citrus ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even more intense lime experience.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Key Lime Bars Citrus?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure that the butter is softened, not melted, and don’t skip chilling the crust before baking to achieve that perfect texture.

Variations of Key Lime Bars Citrus You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations: add a graham cracker crust for a Key Lime Pie Bars experience, use other citrus juices for a different flavor profile, or create No-Bake Key Lime Bars for a quick treat. These options will keep your dessert game strong and interesting!

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For more dessert ideas, check out our Irresistible Peach Upside Down Mini Cakes or Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler. If you’re interested in the health benefits of citrus, you can read more here.