Lime Slice Bars: A Refreshing and Tangy Dessert Treat

Lime slice bars are a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the tartness of lime with the sweetness of a buttery crust. These bars are perfect for citrus lovers looking for a bright and zesty treat to enjoy any time of year. In this article, we’ll explore how to make lime slice bars from scratch, providing step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting the recipe, and ideas for serving this delicious dessert.

Ingredients Needed

1. For the Crust:
   • Graham crackers: Crushed graham crackers form the base of the crust, adding a sweet and crunchy texture.
   • Butter: Melted butter binds the graham cracker crumbs together to create a firm and buttery crust.
   • Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the crust.
2. For the Lime Filling:
   • Fresh lime juice: Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
   • Lime zest: Lime zest adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the filling.
   • Sweetened condensed milk: Sweetened condensed milk provides creaminess and sweetness to the filling.
   • Egg yolks: Egg yolks help thicken the filling and create a smooth texture.
3. For the Topping (Optional):
   • Powdered sugar: Powdered sugar can be dusted on top of the bars for decoration and added sweetness.
   • Lime slices: Thin lime slices can be used as a garnish to add a pop of color and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
   • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
2. Bake the Crust:
   • Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
   • Remove from the oven and let the crust cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Lime Filling:
   • In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolks until smooth and well combined.
   • Pour the filling over the baked crust and spread it out evenly.
4. Bake the Bars:
   • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
   • Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the baking dish.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Once the bars have cooled to room temperature, transfer the baking dish to the refrigerator and chill the bars for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
   • Once chilled, slice the bars into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
   • Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with lime slices, if desired, before serving.

Tips for Perfecting Lime Slice Bars

• Use Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice will yield the best flavor in the filling.
• Chill Before Slicing: For clean and neat slices, chill the bars in the refrigerator before slicing.
• Store Properly: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the lime slice bars chilled as a refreshing dessert on a hot day.
• Enjoy them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Garnish with whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added indulgence.

Lime slice bars are a simple yet sensational dessert option that’s perfect for citrus enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike. With their buttery graham cracker crust and tangy lime filling, these bars offer a burst of refreshing flavor in every bite. Whether enjoyed as a sweet ending to a meal or a midday pick-me-up, lime slice bars are sure to brighten any occasion with their zesty charm.