Lime slice bars are a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the tartness of lime with the sweetness of a buttery crust. These bars are perfect for citrus lovers looking for a bright and zesty treat to enjoy any time of year. In this article, we’ll explore how to make lime slice bars from scratch, providing step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting the recipe, and ideas for serving this delicious dessert.
Ingredients Needed
- For the Crust:
- Graham crackers: Crushed graham crackers form the base of the crust, adding a sweet and crunchy texture.
- Butter: Melted butter binds the graham cracker crumbs together to create a firm and buttery crust.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the crust.
- For the Lime Filling:
- Fresh lime juice: Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
- Lime zest: Lime zest adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the filling.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Sweetened condensed milk provides creaminess and sweetness to the filling.
- Egg yolks: Egg yolks help thicken the filling and create a smooth texture.
- For the Topping (Optional):
- Powdered sugar: Powdered sugar can be dusted on top of the bars for decoration and added sweetness.
- Lime slices: Thin lime slices can be used as a garnish to add a pop of color and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust:
- Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the crust cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Lime Filling:
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the filling over the baked crust and spread it out evenly.
- Bake the Bars:
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the baking dish.
- Chill and Serve:
- Once the bars have cooled to room temperature, transfer the baking dish to the refrigerator and chill the bars for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Once chilled, slice the bars into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
- Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lime slices, if desired, before serving.
Tips for Perfecting Lime Slice Bars
- Use Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice will yield the best flavor in the filling.
- Chill Before Slicing: For clean and neat slices, chill the bars in the refrigerator before slicing.
- Store Properly: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the lime slice bars chilled as a refreshing dessert on a hot day.
- Enjoy them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Garnish with whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added indulgence.
Lime slice bars are a simple yet sensational dessert option that’s perfect for citrus enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike. With their buttery graham cracker crust and tangy lime filling, these bars offer a burst of refreshing flavor in every bite. Whether enjoyed as a sweet ending to a meal or a midday pick-me-up, lime slice bars are sure to brighten any occasion with their zesty charm.