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Lime Bars 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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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