Craving a tantalizing dessert that's both deliciously decadent and surprisingly healthy? Get ready to revolutionize your dessert game with these Lightened Up Key Lime Bars that prove you don't need condensed milk to create a creamy, zesty treat! Imagine biting into a perfectly balanced bar with a buttery almond flour crust and a vibrant lime filling that will transport you to a tropical paradise - all without the heavy calories. Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply looking for a refreshing dessert, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine almond flour, melted coconut oil, and 2 tablespoons of maple syrup. Mix thoroughly until the mixture resembles a crumbly dough.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, using the back of a spoon or your fingers to create a compact, smooth base.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, remaining maple syrup, honey, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and salt until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the lime filling over the partially baked crust, ensuring an even distribution.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to firm up and develop a clean, crisp texture.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 16 even squares.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.
Tips
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for the most vibrant, authentic flavor - bottled juice just won't compare!
- Make sure your coconut oil is melted but not hot when mixing the crust to achieve the perfect crumbly texture.
- Don't overbake the filling - a slight jiggle in the center is your sign of a perfectly set custard.
- Allow ample cooling and chilling time to help the bars set and develop their signature smooth texture.
- For extra presentation points, garnish with a sprinkle of lime zest or a tiny mint leaf before serving.
- If you're sensitive to honey, you can substitute with maple syrup or a sugar-free alternative.
- Use parchment paper overhang as your secret weapon for easy, clean bar removal and cutting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg
