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These lime bars blend a buttery, tender crust with a bright, tangy lime filling for a perfect summertime treat. Light and refreshing yet rich enough to satisfy your sweet tooth, they have become my go-to dessert whenever friends drop by for a casual gathering or a sunny afternoon indulgence.
I first made these bars one summer when limes were in abundance and now every warm weather season, they are requested by name at family cookouts and picnics
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: builds the sturdy, tender crust, fresh and unbleached is best for a clean taste
- Powdered sugar: smooth sweetness in the crust and a dusting to finish provides a delicate look and taste
- Salt: enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness naturally
- Unsalted butter: melted for the crust, choosing high-quality butter gives richness and a flaky texture
- Granulated sugar: sweetens the tangy lime filling, use plain white sugar for best results
- Lime zest: the oils from the zest brighten the filling remarkably, fresh, unwaxed limes give the strongest aroma
- Fresh lime juice: the star of the tangy filling, always fresh and preferably from ripe limes for authentic flavor
- Eggs at room temperature: help the filling set perfectly and give it a silky texture
- Green food coloring (optional): purely for visual appeal to highlight the fresh lime color
- Powdered sugar for dusting: adds a classic finish and balances the vibrant lime tartness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sift and mix the crust ingredients:
- Sift 2 and a half cups of flour with the powdered sugar and salt into a large bowl. Add the melted butter and stir or mix just until combined forming a soft dough. This step ensures no lumps and a smooth crumbly base.
- Press and bake the crust:
- Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined or greased 9 by 13-inch pan. Press evenly with the bottom of a measuring cup to create a smooth thin layer. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. This prebaking step sets the crust firmly so it can support the filling.
- Prepare the lime filling mixture:
- In a food processor or strong stand mixer, combine granulated sugar with lime zest until the zest is evenly distributed and aromatic. Add the remaining half cup flour and mix again to blend evenly. Then add fresh lime juice, eggs, and green food coloring if using. Mix thoroughly until smooth and slightly frothy.
- Bake the assembled bars:
- Pour the lime filling over the warm crust and return to the oven. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 to 40 minutes. Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. You will know the bars are done when the filling no longer jiggles in the middle but still feels slightly soft to the touch. Avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy texture.
- Cool and chill before serving:
- Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack for about an hour. Then refrigerate for at least two hours to set fully before cutting into 16 squares. Dust with powdered sugar and optionally some extra lime zest on top just before serving.
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Storage Tips
Store these lime bars covered tightly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to four days and it is best to enjoy them chilled. You can freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to retain the perfect texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice can be used but the bars will not be as vibrant in flavor. Meyer lemons make a nice substitute for a sweeter, less tart twist. To make the crust gluten free, try a 1 to 1 gluten free flour blend but expect a slightly different texture. Unsalted butter is best but margarine or coconut oil can work in a pinch, changing the flavor slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These bars shine on their own but pairing them with fresh berries or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream makes them extra festive. They are fantastic served alongside iced tea or a citrusy cocktail for summer gatherings. For a kid-friendly option, add a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
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Cultural and Historical Context
Lime bars are a bright and tangy relative of classic lemon bars and reflect a love of citrus desserts in American baking traditions. They capture the spirit of summer and afternoon gatherings where fresh flavors and sharing simple treats bring people together. Lime, often used in tropical and coastal cuisines, adds a unique twist that brightens the palate compared to its lemon counterpart.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of flour is best for the crust?
All-purpose flour works well to achieve a tender yet sturdy crust that holds together during baking and cutting.
- → How can I tell when the lime filling is done baking?
The filling is set when the center no longer jiggles when gently shaken but still has a slight wobble, ensuring a creamy texture.
- → Can the crust be made ahead of time?
Yes, the crust can be prepared and baked in advance, then refrigerated while you make the filling for convenience.
- → Is it necessary to chill the bars before serving?
Chilling allows the filling to firm up and the flavors to meld, making the bars easier to slice and enhancing taste.
- → What is the purpose of lime zest in the filling?
Lime zest adds a bright, aromatic citrus flavor that intensifies the lime taste and balances the sweetness.