Key Lime Shortbread Bars Recipe
If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart, look no further than these delightful Key Lime Shortbread Bars! With a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust topped with a creamy key lime filling, these bars are sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re enjoying a summer barbecue or just need a little pick-me-up during the week, this recipe delivers the bright, refreshing flavors of key lime while being easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious treat!
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this Key Lime Shortbread Bars Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each layer complements the other. The buttery shortbread crust provides a rich foundation that perfectly balances the tart and creamy key lime filling. The use of fresh key lime juice and zest adds a vibrant flavor that is simply irresistible. This recipe also allows for flexibility, making it easy to adapt based on your preferences.
The Ingredient Lineup
- Shortbread crust: The base of our bars, made with butter and flour for a rich, crumbly texture.
- 3 large eggs, separated: The egg yolks create a velvety filling, while the egg whites can be used to create a fluffy topping.
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: This is the secret ingredient that adds creaminess and sweetness to the filling.
- 1/2 cup key lime juice: Freshly squeezed key lime juice brings the signature tartness to the dessert.
- 1 tablespoon lime zest: Adds an extra burst of citrus flavor to the filling.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A touch of lemon enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the key limes.
- Whipped cream: For topping, this adds a light and airy finish to the bars.
- Lime slices: Optional garnish that adds a splash of color and extra zest.
What’s in the Gear List
- 9×9-inch baking pan: Perfect size for baking and slicing the bars.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining the ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk: For mixing the egg whites and combining the filling ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
- Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls and spreading the filling evenly.
Key Lime Shortbread Bars Recipe: From Prep to Plate
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×9-inch baking pan lightly or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Make the Shortbread Crust
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (softened), and 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Mix until the dough is crumbly but holds together when pressed. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
3. Bake the Crust
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
4. Prepare the Key Lime Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the separated 3 egg yolks, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup of key lime juice, 1 tablespoon of lime zest, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar until smooth and well combined.
5. Whip the Egg Whites
In another bowl, beat the 3 egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the key lime filling until just combined. This step adds a light, airy texture to the filling.
6. Assemble and Bake
Pour the key lime filling over the cooled shortbread crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
7. Cool and Slice
Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
8. Serve with Whipped Cream
Once chilled, cut your Key Lime Shortbread Bars into squares. Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of lime for an extra touch of elegance.
Swap Guide
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Use fresh key limes if available, as they provide the best flavor; if not, bottled key lime juice works too.
- For a sweeter filling, add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the lime mixture.
- If you prefer a less tart flavor, reduce the amount of key lime juice and increase the sweetened condensed milk slightly.
What I Learned Testing
- The crust needs to be baked until golden for the best flavor and texture.
- Folding the egg whites gently into the filling is crucial for achieving a light and airy consistency.
- Chilling the bars in the refrigerator really enhances the flavor, allowing the filling to set properly.
- Serving the bars with whipped cream not only adds flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation!
Shelf Life & Storage
These Key Lime Shortbread Bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to make them ahead of time, they also freeze well. Just wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Key Lime Shortbread Bars Recipe Q&A
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars are perfect for making ahead of time. They actually taste even better after a day or two in the fridge as the flavors meld together.
What if I can’t find key limes?
If key limes are unavailable, you can use regular limes instead. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
Can I use a different type of crust?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different crusts, such as a graham cracker crust or a coconut crust for a unique twist.
How do I know when the filling is set?
The filling should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will firm up as it cools in the refrigerator.
Keep Cooking
- For a delightful dinner, try Lemon Butter Herb Chicken Orzo Skillet.
- Looking for a quick meal? Check out Zesty Lemon Pepper Shrimp Orzo.
- For a creamy pasta option, you won’t want to miss Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp Penne.
Final Thoughts
The Key Lime Shortbread Bars Recipe is a refreshing dessert that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With its buttery crust and zesty filling, it’s the perfect treat to enjoy on a warm day or to brighten up any occasion. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a slice (or two) of these delectable bars. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Key Lime Shortbread Bars Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x9-inch baking pan lightly or line it with parchment paper.
- 2. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (softened), and 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Mix until the dough is crumbly but holds together when pressed. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
- 3. Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- 4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the separated 3 egg yolks, 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, 1/2 cup of key lime juice, 1 tablespoon of lime zest, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar until smooth and well combined.
- 5. In another bowl, beat the 3 egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the key lime filling until just combined.
- 6. Pour the key lime filling over the cooled shortbread crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- 7. Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
- 8. Once chilled, cut your Key Lime Shortbread Bars into squares. Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of lime for an extra touch of elegance.
Notes
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Chilling the bars really enhances the flavor, allowing the filling to set properly.
