Okay friends, if sunshine had a flavor, these Frozen Key Lime Pie Bars would be it! Creamy, tart, perfectly sweet, and served cold—this dessert is like a little tropical vacation straight from your freezer. Whether you’re cooling down on a hot summer day or craving something bright and refreshing, this one’s a keeper. Let’s dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars became a family favorite after I whipped them up for a pool party… and they disappeared before I could snag a second piece! It’s the kind of dessert that’s low-effort, high-reward, and always gets a “Wow, you made these?!” Trust me, they’re that good.
- No baking required—just chill, slice, and serve!
- Bright, tangy flavor with a sweet crunchy crust
- Perfect make-ahead treat for parties or weeknight cravings
- Kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and summer-approved
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Extra lime zest and crushed graham crackers for garnish (optional)
Pro Tips
- No key limes? No worries—regular limes work beautifully too.
- Make your own graham cracker crumbs by pulsing them in a food processor.
- Chill your mixing bowl before whipping the cream for fluffier results.
- Want to make it dairy-free? Try coconut cream and plant-based condensed milk swaps!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to help lift the bars out easily later.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Freeze while you make the filling.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth and creamy.
- Pour filling over the frozen crust and smooth the top. Freeze for 4 hours, or until firm.
- Just before serving, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread it over the frozen filling.
- Garnish with extra lime zest and crushed graham crackers if desired. Slice into bars and serve immediately!
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Make sure your lime juice is freshly squeezed—it makes a world of difference.
- To cut clean slices, rinse your knife under warm water and wipe it between cuts.
- Freeze the bars overnight for extra-firm texture if you’re prepping ahead of time.
- Store bars in a sealed container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Swap graham crackers for crushed vanilla wafers or gingersnaps for a twist.
- Top each bar with a dollop of coconut whipped cream and a lime wedge.
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the filling for richer flavor.
- Serve in mini cups with spoons for a cute party-ready dessert flight.
FAQs
Can I use bottled key lime juice?
Yes! While fresh is best, bottled key lime juice will work in a pinch. Just be sure it’s 100% juice without added sugar.
How long do these bars last in the freezer?
They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 weeks when properly stored in an airtight container.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely—just swap in your favorite gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes freezing)
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- Extra lime zest and crushed graham crackers, optional garnish
Instructions:
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and set aside.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into pan. Freeze crust for 10 minutes.
- Mix condensed milk, sour cream, lime juice, and zest until smooth. Pour over crust and freeze for 4 hours.
- Whip cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Spread over frozen filling.
- Garnish, slice into bars, and serve cold!
Nutrition: Approximately 250 calories per bar
If you give these Frozen Key Lime Pie Bars a try, I’d LOVE to hear how they turn out! Leave a comment below, snap a pic and tag me on Instagram @thekitchensaid, or send it to a friend who could use a little citrusy joy. 🍋💛
