Gluten Free Key Lime Pie Bars

3 min read 22-11-2024

Meta Description: Indulge in these delightful gluten-free key lime pie bars! This recipe delivers the creamy, tangy flavor of classic key lime pie in an easy-to-make, gluten-free format. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Get the recipe now and satisfy your sweet tooth without the gluten!

Introduction

Forget the hassle of individual pies! These gluten-free key lime pie bars offer all the zesty, refreshing goodness of a classic key lime pie in a convenient, bar-sized format. Whether you're gluten-free or simply looking for a delicious and easy dessert, this recipe is a winner. This recipe uses a simple gluten-free crust and a creamy, tangy key lime filling that's sure to impress. Let's get started on these delightful gluten-free key lime pie bars!

Ingredients: Gluten-Free Crust

1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (ensure it's a good baking blend)
½ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Instructions: Making the Crust

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Press into Pan: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking pan. Make sure it's evenly distributed and compacted.
Pre-bake (Optional): For a crispier crust, pre-bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Allow to cool completely before adding the filling.

Ingredients: Key Lime Filling

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
½ cup key lime juice (about 6-8 limes)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon lime zest (optional, but adds great flavor!)

Instructions: Making the Key Lime Filling

Whisk Together: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, eggs, and lime zest (if using) until smooth and well combined.
Pour Over Crust: Pour the key lime mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is just set. The center may still appear slightly jiggly.
Cool Completely: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before refrigerating for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to fully set.

Cutting and Serving Your Gluten-Free Key Lime Pie Bars

Once the bars are completely chilled, cut them into squares and serve. Garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of lime zest, or even some fresh berries for an extra touch of elegance.

Tips and Variations

Lime Juice: Use fresh key lime juice for the best flavor. If key limes are unavailable, you can substitute regular limes, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the amount slightly.
Crust: Experiment with different gluten-free crust variations. You could try a graham cracker crust (ensure it's gluten-free) or even a shortbread crust.
Make Ahead: These bars are perfect for making ahead of time. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of gluten-free flour?

While this recipe uses a standard gluten-free all-purpose blend, you may experiment with other blends. However, results may vary slightly depending on the specific blend you choose. Always check the label to make sure the flour is suitable for baking.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The filling should be mostly set, but the center may still have a slight jiggle. Overbaking can result in a dry filling.

Conclusion

These gluten-free key lime pie bars are a fantastic dessert option for any occasion. Their bright, zesty flavor and convenient bar format make them perfect for parties, potlucks, or a simple weeknight treat. Enjoy the deliciousness without the gluten! Remember to share your creations with us! Let us know in the comments how your gluten-free key lime pie bars turned out!