Print

Lime Bars Recipe

4.8 from 90 reviews

These zesty and refreshing Lime Bars feature a buttery, crumbly crust topped with a smooth, tangy lime filling. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, they make an ideal treat for warm weather or any time you crave a citrusy dessert.

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 and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 11×7-inch baking dish with parchment paper that overhangs by about 2 inches on both sides for easy removal later.
  2. Make the crust: In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, salt, and butter pieces. Pulse until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
  3. Prepare the filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together the granulated sugar and flour in a mixing bowl. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition to ensure smooth incorporation. Stir in the lime zest, fresh lime juice, and a drop of green and yellow food coloring if desired. Mix everything until very smooth and combined.
  4. Bake the lime bars: Pour the lime filling evenly over the hot crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 18 to 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles when the pan is shaken gently.
  5. Cool and serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. Then refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours to let the filling firm up nicely. To serve, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, cut into squares, and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • Using fresh lime juice and zest is crucial for the best lime flavor.
  • Be sure not to overbake the filling; it should be set but still slightly soft in the center.
  • Food coloring is optional and mainly for presentation purposes.
  • Refrigerating after baking improves the texture and makes cutting easier.
  • These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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