Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dessert that's about to become your new obsession! These Not Really Key Lime Pie Squares are the ultimate summer treat that will transport you to a tropical paradise with just one bite. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy, zesty lime filling that's both refreshing and indulgent - it's like a vacation for your mouth without leaving your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 squares
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup key lime juice
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. 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 or flat spatula to create a compact, smooth crust.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until it turns light golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes while preparing the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, egg yolks, and lime zest until smooth and well combined. Ensure no streaks of egg yolk remain.
- Pour the lime filling evenly over the pre-baked graham cracker crust, making sure to spread it to all corners of the pan.
- 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 oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the squares to set fully.
- Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the dessert out of the pan. Cut into 12 even squares.
- Before serving, top each square with a dollop of whipped cream and an optional sprinkle of lime zest for garnish.
Tips
- Use fresh key lime juice if possible for the most vibrant flavor. If unavailable, bottled key lime juice works well too.
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature to ensure smooth mixing and even baking.
- When pressing the graham cracker crust, use firm, even pressure to create a compact base that won't crumble.
- Don't overbake the filling - it should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven.
- Chill the squares completely before cutting for clean, precise edges.
- For an extra touch of elegance, use a microplane to create delicate lime zest garnish.
- Store the squares in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days for maximum freshness.
- For a professional presentation, wipe your knife clean between cuts to get perfect square slices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 110mg
