Imagine a dessert that transports you to a sun-soaked beach with just one bite - our Key Lime Curd Bars are that magical culinary escape! Combining the tangy zest of fresh key limes, a buttery graham cracker crust, and the delightful crunch of toasted coconut and almonds, these bars are not just a treat, they're a tropical vacation on a plate. Whether you're looking to impress guests or indulge in a little self-care, these bars promise to deliver an explosion of flavor that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup toasted coconut chips
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles wet sand and holds together when pressed.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a measuring cup to create a compact, smooth crust.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly while preparing the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, key lime juice, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt until smooth and well combined. Ensure no lumps remain in the mixture.
- Pour the key lime filling over the pre-baked graham cracker crust, ensuring even distribution.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Once cooled, sprinkle the top evenly with toasted coconut chips and sliced almonds.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to set completely and develop full flavor.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 12 even squares.
- Serve chilled and store any remaining bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use fresh key lime juice for the most vibrant, authentic flavor - bottled juice just can't compare!
- Toast your coconut chips and almonds beforehand to enhance their nutty, rich flavor profile.
- Make sure your graham cracker crust is firmly and evenly pressed to create a solid base.
- Don't overbake the filling - it should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven.
- Allow ample cooling and chilling time to ensure the bars set properly and develop maximum flavor.
- Use parchment paper overhang for easy removal and clean, perfect cuts.
- For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with additional lime zest or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
