St Patricks Day Lime Bars (Printable Version)

Bright lime bars with a buttery graham crust, offering a tangy and sweet flavor for festive occasions.

# Ingredient List:

→ Graham Cracker Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
04 - Pinch of salt

→ Lime Filling

05 - 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
06 - 4 large egg yolks
07 - 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4-5 limes)
08 - 2 teaspoons finely grated lime zest
09 - 2-3 drops green food coloring (optional)

→ Topping

10 - Powdered sugar, for dusting
11 - Thin lime slices or zest, for garnish (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
03 - Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, lime juice, lime zest, and green food coloring (if using) until smooth and fully combined.
05 - Pour the lime filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.
06 - Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
07 - Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before cutting.
08 - Use the parchment to lift the bars from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lime slices or zest if desired. Cut into 16 squares and serve chilled.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The sweet-tart lime filling balances the buttery crust like a perfectly composed song
  • They travel beautifully to parties and actually taste better the next day
  • That vibrant green color feels magical without needing beer or luck
02 -
  • Overbaking makes the filling rubbery, so pull them out when the center still wobbles slightly like a gentle wave
  • Room temperature eggs prevent the filling from seizing up when you mix everything together
  • The chilling step is not optional if you want clean, photogenic squares instead of a messy delicious pile
03 -
  • Press the crust mixture into the corners and edges first, then fill in the middle for an even layer
  • Use the bottom of a straight-sided glass to compact the crust evenly without creating thin spots
  • Room temperature limes yield more juice, so microwave them for 15 seconds if they feel cold

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