Description
These Key Lime Bars offer a perfect balance of tangy and sweet with a buttery shortbread crust and a zesty key lime custard filling. This delightful citrus treat is refreshing and smooth, ideal for dessert lovers seeking a vibrant and elegant finish to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 227 g unsalted butter, softened
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 250 g all-purpose flour
- 1.25 g (1/4 teaspoon) kosher salt
Filling
- 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
Finishing
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat oven to 175°C. Line a 23×33 cm baking pan with parchment paper and grease thoroughly. Set aside.
- Make the Crust: Cream the softened butter for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add granulated sugar and flour. Mix until combined to form a dough.
- Bake the Crust: Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan using your fingers. Chill for 15 minutes to firm up the dough, then bake for 15–20 minutes until the surface is lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
- Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, flour, key lime juice, and key lime zest until smooth and well combined.
- Bake Filling: Pour custard mixture over the cooled shortbread crust. Return to the oven and bake at 175°C for 25–30 minutes until the filling is just set and slightly firm to the touch. Let cool completely.
- Chill and Serve: For best results, refrigerate until cold. Dust with powdered sugar, slice into 16 bars, and serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing citrus dessert.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling texture.
- Chilling the crust before baking helps maintain a firm, crumbly texture.
- Key lime juice can be substituted with fresh lime juice if key limes are unavailable, but key limes provide a distinct flavor.
- Bars can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to maintain a fresh appearance.
