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To truly appreciate the zesty key lime pie bars, it's essential to understand the core ingredients that contribute to their delightful flavor and texture. Each component plays a significant role, from the crust to the creamy filling and the finishing touch of whipped cream.

Key Lime Pie Bars

Discover the perfect summer dessert with Zesty Key Lime Pie Bars! This delightful twist on the classic key lime pie offers a portable treat that's ideal for picnics and gatherings. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these bars combine the tartness of fresh key lime juice with the sweetness of condensed milk, all nestled in a crunchy graham cracker crust. Easy to make and utterly refreshing, they are sure to impress at any occasion. Ready to whip up a batch?
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Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

⅓ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

For the Filling:

1 cup fresh key lime juice (approximately 20-25 key limes)

4 large egg yolks

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

Zest of 3 key limes

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Topping:

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Zest of 1 key lime, for garnish

Optional: Thin lime slices for decoration

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready.

    Prepare the Crust: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and add the ground cinnamon, if using. Stir the mixture until it forms a crumbly texture. Firmly press this mixture into the base of a 9x9-inch baking pan (or a similar size) to create an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. After baking, allow the crust to cool while you prepare the filling.

      Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, use a whisk to beat the egg yolks until they become pale and frothy. To the yolks, add the sweetened condensed milk, freshly squeezed key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined.

        Combine Filling and Crust: Pour the key lime filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, ensuring it is spread out evenly across the surface. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but retains a slight jiggle in the center. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to fully set.

          Prepare the Topping: In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream on high speed until stiff peaks form, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

            Serve: Once the bars are chilled and set, carefully lift them out from the pan using the edges of the parchment paper. Cut into squares or bars according to your preference. Top each piece with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of lime zest, and a thin slice of lime for added flair, if desired.

              Enjoy: Serve your Zesty Key Lime Pie Bars chilled and relish in the refreshing, zesty goodness of this delicious treat!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 45 mins (plus chilling time) | 12 bars