3-Layer Key Lime Pie Bars
These key lime pie bars feature a buttery crust, creamy filling, and a mascarpone whip topping in bite-sized bars!
Prep Time15 minutes mins
Cook Time15 minutes mins
Chill Time3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Total Time4 hours hrs
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: key lime pie bars, key lime pie bars recipe
Servings: 12 servings
1 (11x7) Baking Dish
1 Electric Mixer
For the Crust:
- 1 8.8 ounce package Biscoff cookies
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (half of a sleeve)
- 8 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted
For the Filling:
- 6 egg yolks room temp
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk 14 oz.
- 2/3 cup key lime juice or juice from 4 large limes
- 2 teaspoons key lime zest
- Pinch of salt
For the Mascarpone Whip:
- 4 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Lime zest for garnish
Make the Crust:
Crush the Biscoff cookies and graham crackers in a food processor until they form fine crumbs. Stream in the melted butter and pulse until combined. The mixture should look coarse and sandy.
1 8.8 ounce package Biscoff cookies, 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers, 8 Tablespoons unsalted butter
If you don't have a food processor, place the cookies in an airtight bag and crush them using a rolling pin or heavy-bottomed skillet.
Pour the crumb mixture into the prepared pan and press it into an even layer using a flat-bottomed glass or measuring cup.
Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Prepare the Filling:
Zest and juice the limes.
Using an electric mixer with the whisk attachment, beat the egg yolks and lime zest on high speed for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6 egg yolks
Add the sweetened condensed milk and beat on high speed for 1-2 minutes until thick and voluminous.
1 can sweetened condensed milk
Turn off the mixer and add the lime juice and a pinch of salt. Stir with a rubber spatula until combined, making sure to incorporate any zest stuck to the whisk.
2/3 cup key lime juice or juice from 4 large limes, 2 teaspoons key lime zest, Pinch of salt
Bake the Filling:
Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 10-15 minutes until the center is mostly set but still slightly jiggly.
Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Make the Mascarpone Whip:
Using a mixer, beat the mascarpone cheese, and powdered sugar for 30 seconds, or just until creamy. Pour in the heavy cream, and start the mixer on low and beat until combined. Slowly increase the speed and beat until stiff peaks, be careful not to overmix or the mixture will curdle. Add lime zest for garnish.
4 ounces mascarpone cheese, 1 1/4 cup heavy cream, 1/3 cup powdered sugar
Assemble and Serve:
Spread the whipped cream over the chilled key lime pie bars in an even layer.
Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with more lime zest and enjoy!
Lime zest
- If you can't find key limes, regular limes (Persian limes) work well. Avoid using bottled lime juice for the best flavor.
- If you prefer, graham crackers can be used for the crust. Use 3 cups crushed, and consider adding a touch of cinnamon for added warmth. Or, you can sub for 1.5 packages of Biscoff cookies.
- Store the key lime pie bars in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 486kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 166mg | Sodium: 84mg | Potassium: 181mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 30g | Vitamin A: 955IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 142mg | Iron: 1mg