Key Lime Pie Bars

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180 °C) (175°C (350 °F)). Prepare an ungreased 9-by-13-inch baking pan.

2. 2

   Crush the graham crackers finely and place the crumbs in a mixing bowl. Add the melted salted butter and a sprinkle of granulated sugar.

3. 3

   Mix the crust ingredients until thoroughly combined and the texture resembles damp sand suitable for building a sandcastle.

4. 4

   Transfer the crumb mixture to the 9-by-13-inch pan. Press it firmly and evenly across the bottom to form a compact crust.

5. 5

   Bake the crust at 350°F (180 °C) (175°C (350 °F)) for 8 to 10 minutes, until set and lightly fragrant.

   Start 10-minute timer
6. 6

   While the crust bakes, place the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, vanilla extract, egg yolks, and 1 tablespoon of lime zest in a mixing bowl.

7. 7

   Mix the filling ingredients until smooth and well combined. Add the key lime juice and mix again until evenly incorporated.

8. 8

   Remove the hot crust from the oven and immediately pour the lime filling evenly over it.

9. 9

   Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160 °C) (165°C (325 °F)). Return the pan to the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, until the filling is set around the edges and just slightly jiggly in the center.

   Start 20-minute timer
10. 10

    Let the bars cool completely. For best results, refrigerate them overnight before adding the topping.

11. 11

    When the bars are completely chilled, pour the heavy cream into a large mixing bowl. Whip until stiff peaks form.

12. 12

    Add the powdered sugar and mix just until incorporated. Taste and add more powdered sugar if desired.

13. 13

    Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cooled lime bars and smooth the surface.

14. 14

    Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of lime zest over the whipped cream. Cut into bars and serve chilled.