Introduction
Are you a fan of tangy and sweet desserts? Then you’re in for a treat with these Key Lime Shortbread Bars! This delightful recipe combines the zesty flavor of key limes with a buttery shortbread crust, creating a mouthwatering dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply craving a refreshing treat, these Key Lime Shortbread Bars are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this delicious dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons why you’ll fall in love with these Key Lime Shortbread Bars. Firstly, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of simple ingredients. Secondly, the combination of tangy key lime and buttery shortbread creates a perfect balance of flavors. Lastly, these bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making them a convenient dessert option for busy days or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these Key Lime Shortbread Bars:
– 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
– 3/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of fresh key lime juice
– Zest of 2 key limes
– Optional: additional powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Key Lime Shortbread Bars:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the softened butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, key lime juice, and key lime zest until well combined.
- Pour the lime mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish.
- Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Optional: Dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar before cutting into squares and serving.
Expert Tips for Success
Follow these expert tips to ensure your Key Lime Shortbread Bars turn out perfectly:
– Make sure the butter is softened before mixing it with the flour and powdered sugar for the crust. This will help achieve the desired texture.
– Use fresh key lime juice for the best flavor. Bottled lime juice may alter the taste of the bars.
– Allow the bars to cool completely before refrigerating. This will help them set properly.
– For a neat presentation, dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar just before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’d like to put a twist on the classic Key Lime Shortbread Bars, here are a few variations you can try:
– Graham Cracker Crust: Substitute the shortbread crust with a graham cracker crust for a different texture and flavor.
– Coconut Key Lime Bars: Add shredded coconut to the crust or sprinkle it on top of the bars before baking for a tropical twist.
– Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make the bars gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
These Key Lime Shortbread Bars are delicious on their own, but you can take them to the next level by serving them with a few accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions:
– Whipped Cream: Top each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added creaminess.
– Fresh Berries: Serve the bars with a side of fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, to add a burst of freshness.
– Key Lime Zest: Garnish each bar with a sprinkle of additional key lime zest for an extra pop of flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
A: While key limes have a distinct flavor, you can substitute them with regular limes if key limes are not available. The taste will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Q: How long do these Key Lime Shortbread Bars last?
A: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze these Key Lime Shortbread Bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Final Thoughts
These Key Lime Shortbread Bars are a delightful dessert that will impress your family and friends. The combination of tangy key lime and buttery shortbread creates a flavor explosion in every bite. With their easy preparation and refreshing taste, these bars are a perfect treat for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and let your taste buds experience the tangy goodness!
Key Lime Shortbread Bars
Delight in the zesty and sweet combination of key lime and buttery shortbread with these Key Lime Shortbread Bars. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and can be made ahead of time for convenience. A refreshing treat that is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh key lime juice
- Zest of 2 key limes
- Optional: additional powdered sugar for dusting
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and powdered sugar. Cut in softened butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
- Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
- Whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, key lime juice, and key lime zest in another bowl until well combined.
- Pour lime mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until filling is set.
- Remove from oven and allow bars to cool completely in the baking dish.
- Refrigerate bars for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Optional: Dust the top of bars with powdered sugar before cutting into squares and serving.
Nutrition Facts
