Key Lime Pie Bars (Print Version)

Tangy lime bars with creamy filling on a graham cracker base. A refreshing citrus treat.

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 12 full sheets graham crackers, crushed to yield 1 1/2 cups crumbs
02 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

→ Filling

04 - 4 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese, softened
05 - 4 large egg yolks
06 - 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
07 - 1/2 cup key lime juice
08 - 2 teaspoons lime zest

→ Garnish

09 - Whipped cream, optional
10 - Lime slices, optional

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Set aside.
02 - Process graham crackers into fine crumbs. Combine crumbs with granulated sugar in a medium bowl, then stir in melted butter until mixture is sandy. Press evenly into bottom of prepared pan.
03 - Place crust in oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly while preparing the filling.
04 - In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese on medium-high speed until smooth, about 1 minute. Add egg yolks, mixing well. Scrape bowl as needed. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, and lime zest until fully combined. Whisk by hand briefly to ensure a lump-free texture.
05 - Pour the filling evenly over the warm crust. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until edges are set and center is just slightly jiggly.
06 - Remove pan from oven and place on a wire rack. Allow to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Transfer to refrigerator and chill for at least 2 to 3 hours until fully set.
07 - Lift bars from pan using parchment handles. Cut into squares. Garnish with whipped cream and lime slices if desired.

# Notes:

01 - For clean slices, wipe your knife between cuts. Bars are best after thorough chilling.