Description
These Key Lime Shortbread Bars combine a buttery, crumbly shortbread crust with a tangy, sweet key lime filling. The bright citrus flavor shines in every bite, making them a refreshing and irresistible dessert. A dusting of powdered sugar and extra lime zest adds the perfect finishing touch.
Introduction
Perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or any time you crave a citrusy treat, these bars are simple to make yet bursting with flavor. The shortbread crust provides just the right amount of sweetness, letting the key lime filling shine.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust
- 1 ½ sticks salted butter, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
For the Key Lime Filling
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- Juice of 3–4 key limes or regular limes (about ¼ cup), strained
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 tsp key lime zest
For Garnish (Optional)
- Powdered sugar
- Extra lime zest
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8”x8” baking dish with parchment paper, allowing a ½-inch overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Shortbread Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, flour, and powdered sugar.
- Mix with a fork or pastry blender until crumbly.
3. Press & Bake the Crust
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, about ½ inch up the sides.
- Bake 15–20 minutes, or until slightly golden.
4. Prepare the Key Lime Filling
- While the crust bakes, beat the eggs until foamy.
- Add lime juice, sugar, flour, cornstarch, vanilla, baking powder, salt, and lime zest.
- Mix until smooth and lump-free.
5. Assemble & Bake the Bars
- Pour the filling evenly into the warm crust.
- Bake 25–28 minutes, or until the center is set (no longer jiggly).
6. Chill to Set
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature.
- Transfer to the refrigerator and chill at least 1 hour for the filling to firm.
7. Garnish & Serve
- Lift bars from the pan using the parchment overhang.
- Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with extra lime zest, if desired.
- Cut into 16–25 squares and serve.
Tips
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for a smoother filling.
- Strain lime juice to avoid pulp in the filling.
- Don’t skip chilling; the filling needs time to firm properly.
- For extra flavor, use fresh key limes instead of regular limes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert.
- Pair with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added elegance.
- Perfect for summer parties, potlucks, or afternoon tea.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations
- Add a thin layer of graham cracker crumbs under the crust for extra texture.
- Mix in coconut or white chocolate chips for a tropical twist.
Nutrition (Estimated per Serving, 1 bar of 16)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 11g
- Carbs: 26g
- Sugar: 16g
Conclusion
These Key Lime Shortbread Bars are an easy, tangy, and sweet dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Their buttery crust and citrusy filling make them a crowd-pleaser every time!