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Creamy No-Bake Key Lime Pie Bars

no bake key lime pie bars - featured image

A quick and easy no-bake dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a silky, tangy key lime filling that sets in the fridge for a refreshing treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, crushed finely)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat)
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup fresh key lime juice (about 1012 key limes)
  • 1 tablespoon key lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: whipped cream or sour cream for topping
  • Optional: extra lime zest or thin lime slices for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until mixture resembles wet sand. Press evenly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch pan to form a ½ inch thick layer. Chill in fridge for about 10 minutes.
  2. Make the filling: Beat softened cream cheese with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Slowly add sweetened condensed milk and mix until fully combined, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add lime: Stir in fresh key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until incorporated and mixture thickens slightly.
  4. Assemble: Pour filling over chilled crust and smooth surface with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to set.
  5. Serve: Cut into squares using a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. Garnish with whipped cream and lime zest or slices if desired.

Notes

Let cream cheese soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to avoid lumps. Use fresh key lime juice for best flavor. Chill crust before adding filling to prevent sogginess. Do not rush chilling time to ensure bars set properly. For gluten-free, substitute almond flour for graham crackers; for dairy-free, use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, key lime pie bars, easy dessert, creamy, graham cracker crust, summer dessert, quick dessert