Introduction

Lime bars are a zesty and refreshing treat with a buttery crust and a tangy lime filling. Perfect for a summer dessert or anytime you want a bright, citrusy bite. These bars are simple to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup powdered sugar
¼ tsp salt
½ cup butter (cut into 8 pieces)
1 ¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
2 tsp lime zest
⅔ cup fresh lime juice
Drop of green (+ yellow) food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease or line an 11×7-inch baking dish with parchment paper, letting the paper hang over the edges for easy removal later.
Step 2: To make the crust, combine 1 cup flour, powdered sugar, salt, and butter in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture looks like fine crumbs. Press this evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 3: While the crust bakes, whisk together the granulated sugar and ¼ cup flour in a bowl. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each. Stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and food coloring if using, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the filling over the hot crust and bake again for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan.
Step 5: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, about 1 hour. Then refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours before serving. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out for easy cutting. Dust with powdered sugar if you like.

Tips & Variations

For a more intense lime flavor, add extra lime zest or a splash of lime extract to the filling.
If you don’t have a food processor, you can cut the butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until crumbly.
Try adding a thin layer of coconut flakes to the crust before baking for a tropical twist.

Storage

Store leftover lime bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They are best served cold. Reheat slightly at room temperature if preferred, but chilling helps maintain their firm texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make lime bars without fresh lime juice?

While fresh lime juice gives the best flavor, you can substitute bottled lime juice in a pinch. Just be sure to use pure lime juice without added sugar or preservatives.

How do I know when the filling is done baking?

The filling is ready when it no longer jiggles if you gently shake the pan. It should look set but still slightly soft in the center, as it will firm up while cooling.

Lime Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 120 reviews

These zesty Lime Bars feature a buttery, golden crust topped with a tangy lime filling that’s perfectly set and refreshingly bright. With a simple blend of fresh lime juice, zest, and a touch of sweetness, they’re an ideal dessert for citrus lovers seeking a delicate balance of tart and sweet.

Author: Kai
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: 12 bars 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup powdered sugar
¼ tsp salt
½ cup butter (cut into 8 pieces)

Filling

1 ¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
2 tsp lime zest
⅔ cup fresh lime juice
Drop of green (+ yellow) food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 11×7-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing about 2 inches of overhang on both sides to help lift the bars out later.
Make the Crust: In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, salt, and butter. Pulse until the mixture forms fine crumbs. Press this crumb mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish to create an even layer. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the crust turns golden brown.
Prepare the Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the granulated sugar and flour in a bowl. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition to fully incorporate. Stir in the lime zest, fresh lime juice, and if desired, a drop of green and yellow food coloring to enhance the color. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Bake the Filling: Pour the lime filling over the hot baked crust evenly. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 18 to 20 minutes until the filling is set and no longer jiggles when gently shaken.
Cool and Chill: Allow the lime bars to cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. Then, refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to fully firm up. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan easily. Cut into squares and serve chilled. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving. Store any leftovers refrigerated.

Notes

Use fresh lime juice for the best tart flavor.
Adjust the amount of powdered sugar dusting to your preference.
Ensure the filling is fully set before removing from the oven to avoid runny bars.
Bars keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
For a vegan variation, substitute eggs with a suitable vegan egg replacer and butter with vegan butter.

Keywords: lime bars, citrus dessert, lemon bar alternative, tangy dessert, baked lime bars