Gluten Free Key Lime Pie Bars

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If your craving a sweet treat that's light, zesty and incredibly satisfying, these Gluten Free Key Lime Pie Bars are here to brighten your day. These little squares of citrus heaven feature a gluten free buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, tangy lime filling. They contain just the right balance of sweetness and tartness. Whether you are hosting a summer party or just need a refreshing dessert for the weekend, these bars are irresistable.

Key lime pie has always been a family favorite in our kitchen, and now we have made it gluten free without sacrificing any of the amazing flavors. These bars come together in just a few easy steps and are perfect for little hands to help with. My girls just love to help make these. They are my lime squeezers. Tart, creamy and oh so satisfying, they are a summer bucket list must make.

These gluten free key lime pie bars are a great make ahead dessert. They taste amazing when chilled overnight or for several hours. You can make them in the morning and have them for an evening bbq.

One question I often get asked is what to use if you don't have key limes? Just use regular limes or even the bottled lime juice. I know it isn't as authentic but it will still taste fine. The only ingredient in here that needs to be subbed to make gluten free is the graham crackers. There are several gluten free brands you can use so this typical gluten dessert can be easily made gluten free.

Looking for more summer desserts? Try my Gluten Free Blueberry Crumble, this Paleo Skillet Peach Crisp or my Gluten Free Strawberry Shortcake.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE MAKING KEY LIME PIE BARS

• Bright flavor: The lime is so vibrant and refreshing!

• Silky smooth texture: Creamy and luscious with every bite.

• Simple ingredients: Only 7 ingredients needed with many being pantry staples.

• Perfect make ahead dessert: These bars chill beautifully and taste even better the next day.

INGREDIENTS

For the crust:

• Gluten free graham cracker crumbs: The classic base for that buttery, sweet crunch. Use gluten free graham crackers like Pamela's or Partake. You can use a food processor to turn them into crumbs.

• Unsalted butter: Melted, binds the crust and adds rich flavor.

• Granulated sugar: Helps crisp the crust and enhances sweetness.

For the filling:

• Sweetened condensed milk: Provides richness and adds to the silky texture.

• Egg yolks: Adds structure and gives the filling that creamy texture.

• Key lime juice: The star of the show! Bright, tart and citrusy. Fresh key limes are hard to find so you can use regular limes or bottled key lime juice works too.

• Key lime zest: Optional, but gives an extra punch of lime flavor.

Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.

HOW TO MAKE GLUTEN FREE KEY LIME PIE BARS

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter.

Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, key lime juice and lime zest until smooth.

Step 4: Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 15-18 minutes.

Step 5: Remove from the oven and let the bars cool to room temperature. Refrigerate at least 2 hours, preferably overnight to set.

Step 6: Slice into the bars and serve chilled. Top with whipped cream, a lime slice and additional lime zest.

EMILY'S TIPS

• Use fresh lime juice when possible. It maybe hard to find key limes so use regular ones. It makes a difference in flavor but use bottled if fresh isn't available.

• Zest before you juice. This should be a no brainer but can be easily forgotten.

• Press crust firmly. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to evenly compact the crust so it holds together well.

• Don't overbake. The bars should still jiggle slightly in the center when you pull them out. They will firm up as they cool.

• Chill completely before cutting. At least 2 hours but ideally overnight for clean slices and the perfect texture.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

These gluten free key lime pie bars are perfectly served as is. Here are a few additional suggestions:

• Dust with powdered sugar
• Top with whipped cream (as pictured)
• Garnish with lime zest or slices

These bars pair well with a side of this Paleo Vanilla Honey Ice Cream or washed down with a nice cold glass of Honey Lemonade.

STORAGE

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They are even tastier as they sit!

Freeze: Freeze in a single layer or with parchment paper between layers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

RECIPE FAQ'S

Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?

Absolutely! While key limes have a slightly more tart flavor, regular limes are easier to find and work just as well.

What's the best way to juice limes?

Roll them on the counter to soften, cut in half and use a citrus press or your hands to juice.

What's the best store bought key lime juice brand?

I like using Nellie and Joe's Key West Lime Juice. I purchase through Amazon.

Why does the filling look pale instead of bright green?

That's totally normal. Key lime pie bars are naturally a light green-yellow from the egg yolks and lime juice. Avoid adding food coloring unless you want a more vibrant green hue.

I hope you give these Gluten Free Key Lime Pie Bars a try! If you do give this recipe a try, please let me know!

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