Frozen Key Lime Bars

When the temperature rises and summer days stretch long, nothing beats a refreshing frozen dessert to cool you down. Frozen treats have a universal appeal, offering a blend of sweetness and chill that can transform any hot day into a delightful experience. Among the myriad of options available, Frozen Key Lime Bars stand out as a quintessential summer indulgence. These bars, with their bright, zesty flavor and creamy texture, are the embodiment of summer in dessert form.

Beat the summer heat with our refreshing Frozen Key Lime Bars! This easy recipe combines the tart, zesty flavor of fresh key limes with a buttery graham cracker crust for the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Ideal for barbecues or as a simple treat, these bars are a crowd-pleaser for all ages. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, anyone can enjoy this chilled citrus delight. Dive into summer with every delicious bite!

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Ingredients

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup fresh key lime juice (about 10-12 key limes)

Zest of 2 key limes

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/4 cup powdered sugar

Optional: Lime slices and whipped cream for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.

Form the Base: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8x8-inch baking dish to create an even layer. Use the back of a measuring cup to pack it down.

Make the Key Lime Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, fresh key lime juice, and lime zest until fully combined.

Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to beat until stiff peaks form.

Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the key lime mixture until well combined, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.

Assemble the Bars: Pour the key lime filling evenly over the graham cracker crust in the baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Freeze: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm.

Slice and Serve: Once frozen, remove from the freezer and let sit for a few minutes at room temperature to soften slightly. Use a sharp knife to cut into bars, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat slices.

Garnish: Optional - Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of lime for an extra touch.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 4 hours | 16 bars