Name: Lime Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 4 h 13 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided use; 2/3 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 12 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (a stick and a half); 3 cups granulated sugar; 3 Tablespoons lime zest (about 3-4 limes); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup fresh lime juice; 8 large eggs (room temperature); 6 drops green food coloring (optional); 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting on top); Additional lime zest (optional, for sprinkling on top)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 71 reviews

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If you’re craving something refreshingly tangy yet decadently sweet, the Lime Bars Recipe is here to brighten your day with every bite. These bars boast a crisp, buttery crust perfectly balanced by a lively lime filling that’s both tart and sweet. With that vibrant burst of fresh lime zest and juice, combined with the tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, this recipe is an absolute showstopper for gatherings or a special treat anytime. Trust me, once you try these lime bars, they’ll quickly become your go-to dessert to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image is divided into three parts showing a cooking process on a white marbled surface. The first part shows a white bowl with several whole raw eggs with bright yellow yolks surrounded by clear whites, and a white mixer attachment placed inside. The second part shows a white baking dish with a light golden brown crust layer at the edges, filled with a bright green, slightly chunky mixture being poured from a white bowl. The third part shows multiple square pieces of a light green baked dish with a slightly browned crust on the bottom and edges, being dusted with powdered sugar through a metal sieve held by a woman's hand. In the background, a white and gray striped cloth is visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting great results with this Lime Bars Recipe comes down to a handful of simple, quality ingredients that create incredible harmony. Each component plays an essential role: from the tender, buttery crust to the refreshingly zesty filling, you’ll see how easy it is to work with them all.

3 cups all-purpose flour, divided: Provides the sturdy base for the crust and structure for the filling, so your bars hold together perfectly.
2/3 cups powdered sugar: Infuses delicate sweetness in the crust without overpowering the lime’s brightness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors to create that balanced profile that keeps you coming back for more.
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Brings a rich, creamy texture to the crust—make sure it’s unsalted to control seasoning precisely.
3 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the lime filling and works alongside the zest to highlight the citrus notes.
3 tablespoons lime zest: Adds a punch of fresh aroma and flavor—use plenty of zest from 3 to 4 limes for maximum impact.
1 cup fresh lime juice: The soul of this recipe, providing that signature tangy zip only fresh juice can deliver.
8 large eggs, room temperature: Give the filling its custardy richness and help it set beautifully.
6 drops green food coloring (optional): Gives your bars a fun, vibrant hue, but feel free to skip if you prefer a natural look.
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting on top): Finishes the bars with a snowy, sweet touch that contrasts the tartness perfectly.

How to Make Lime Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper or giving it a good coat of nonstick spray. Then sift together 2 1/2 cups of flour with powdered sugar and salt to ensure a light, lump-free base. Add the melted butter and mix until the dough just comes together. Press this dough evenly into the pan using the bottom of a measuring cup to create a smooth, thin crust. Bake for about 20 minutes or until you notice a delicate golden rim forming along the edges. This creates the perfect firm yet tender foundation for your lime filling.

Step 2: Mix the Lime Filling

While the crust is baking, blend the granulated sugar and lime zest using a food processor or stand mixer until the zest is thoroughly incorporated and fragrant. This step is crucial for infusing the filling with intense lime perfume. Add the remaining half cup of flour to help the filling set nice and firm, then pulse again. Next, pour in the fresh lime juice, crack in the eggs, and add the optional green food coloring before mixing everything until silky smooth. This mixture will pour beautifully over the baked crust.

Step 3: Bake the Filling

Pour the luscious lime filling over the warm crust and return the pan to the oven. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, remembering to rotate the pan at the 15-minute mark for even cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the center no longer jiggles—much like a perfectly set custard. Avoid overbaking to keep the bars tender and moist. Once finished, let them cool on the counter for about an hour before transferring to the fridge for at least two hours of chilling. This cooling step is essential for those clean, sharp cuts you want when serving.

Step 4: Finish and Cut

When you’re ready to serve, dust the top of the bars generously with powdered sugar to create a snowy finish that’s simply irresistible. If you’re feeling extra zestful, sprinkle some additional lime zest over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Then slice into 16 generous bars and prepare for wowed smiles all around.

How to Serve Lime Bars Recipe

The image shows two stacked lime bars with three main layers. The bottom layer is a light tan, crumbly crust that looks firm and slightly grainy. The middle layer is a bright green, glossy lime filling with a smooth texture and some lime zest inside. The top layer is a thick dusting of white powdered sugar, covering the whole top surface. On the very top, there is a thin, curled slice of lime with some zest sprinkled around it. The bars are placed on a surface with a white marbled texture. In the background, blurred slices of fresh lime add more green color to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance the appeal and flavor of your lime bars with simple yet effective garnishes. A little extra lime zest sprinkled on top adds a zesty aroma and cheerful color. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh mint leaves for a refreshing contrast. If you like a bit of texture, toasted coconut flakes or finely chopped pistachios make unexpected but delightful toppings.

Side Dishes

Though these bars shine on their own, pairing them with certain sides can elevate your dessert experience. Serve alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or coconut sorbet for a cool complement. For a brunch or teatime spread, they pair beautifully with fresh berries or a citrusy fruit salad, adding layers of freshness that brighten your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation matters when sharing favorite recipes like this Lime Bars Recipe. Serve them on a rustic wooden board dusted with powdered sugar or on simple white plates to let the vibrant lime color pop. For parties, display the bars in neat rows inside a decorative glass dish or wrapped individually in cute parchment squares tied with twine for an adorable, homemade gift vibe. Adding edible flowers or a brushstroke of lime curd on the side can really amp up the wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover lime bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the crust crisp and the filling fresh. Properly covered, they maintain their texture and flavor beautifully for up to 4 to 5 days, making them a great make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or entertaining.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these bars later, freezing works wonderfully. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When frozen, lime bars keep their deliciousness for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, ensuring they retain that tender, luscious texture.

Reheating

While lime bars are typically served chilled, if you prefer them slightly warmed, pop them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 to 7 minutes or just until they lose their chill but are not hot. This softens the texture and releases the citrus aroma, adding a cozy touch to this bright dessert.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

Fresh lime juice is highly recommended for the best, most vibrant flavor in this Lime Bars Recipe, but in a pinch, bottled juice can work. Keep in mind that bottled juice may lack the bright acidity and freshness, so the bars might be a bit less zesty.

Why is my lime filling too runny?

If the filling seems runny after baking, it may need more time in the oven or to cool properly. Make sure to check that the center no longer jiggles before removing it from the oven and let the bars chill thoroughly; the eggs and flour help the mixture set firm as it cools.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. Just be sure the blend includes xanthan gum or a similar binder to help with the bars’ structure, making them just as delightful and sturdy.

Is the green food coloring necessary?

The green food coloring is purely optional and adds a fun pop of color to the lime bars. If you prefer a natural look, you can omit it without affecting the taste or texture.

How do I cut perfect lime bars without the crust crumbling?

To get neat slices, chill the bars thoroughly and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. Using a plastic knife or slightly warming the blade with hot water can also help create smooth edges without cracking the crust.

Final Thoughts

This Lime Bars Recipe is undoubtedly a gem for anyone who loves a bright, zesty dessert with a tender buttery crust. It’s easy enough to whip up for a casual afternoon treat or impressive enough to bring to your next celebration. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s fun to make and guaranteed to win hearts with every delicious bite. Once you experience that perfect balance of tang and sweetness, these lime bars will become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation.

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