Zesty Delight: Key Lime Shortbread Bars Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to the sunny side of the kitchen, where we’ll embark on a journey to create a delightful dessert that captures the essence of a tropical paradise – Key Lime Shortbread Bars. These citrus-infused bars are the perfect blend of sweet and tangy, featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a luscious key lime topping. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice looking to impress, these bars are sure to brighten up any occasion.

Who Are Key Lime Shortbread Bars For and Why They’re Great

Key Lime Shortbread Bars are a dream dessert for those who appreciate the refreshing taste of citrus and the buttery goodness of shortbread. They’re a versatile treat, suitable for casual family gatherings, elegant dinner parties, or a simple afternoon indulgence. What makes these bars truly great is their simplicity – you don’t need to be a baking expert to create a slice of tropical paradise right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Key Lime Shortbread Bars

  • Deliciously Refreshing: The zesty key lime topping adds a refreshing twist to the classic shortbread, making it an ideal treat for warm weather or whenever you crave a citrusy delight.
  • Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, these bars are a breeze to whip up, even for novice bakers.
  • Versatile: Enjoy them as a dessert for a family meal, a sweet ending to a dinner party, or a treat for yourself on a relaxing afternoon.
  • Perfect Balance: The combination of sweet shortbread and tangy lime topping strikes a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you craving more.
  • Make Ahead: These bars can be made in advance and stored for several days, making them a convenient option for busy schedules.

Ingredients

Let’s start by gathering the ingredients you’ll need to transport your taste buds to the Florida Keys:

For the Shortbread Crust:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Key Lime Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups (360ml) key lime juice (regular lime juice works if key limes are unavailable)
  • 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Zest of 2 key limes (for extra zing)

Directions

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating these zesty Key Lime Shortbread Bars:

Step 1: Preparing the Shortbread Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the flour, salt, and vanilla extract, and mix until the dough comes together.
  4. Press the shortbread dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Creating the Key Lime Topping

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the key lime juice, granulated sugar, eggs, flour, and baking powder until well combined.
  2. Pour the key lime mixture over the slightly cooled shortbread crust.
  3. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is set and the edges are golden.
  4. Let the bars cool to room temperature in the pan.

Step 3: Zesting it Up

  1. Once the bars have cooled, sprinkle the zest of 2 key limes over the top.
  2. Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to help them set and enhance the flavor.

Step 4: Slicing and Serving

  1. Use a sharp knife to slice the bars into squares or rectangles. Clean the knife between cuts for neater slices.
  2. Dust the bars with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
  3. Serve and enjoy the tropical paradise you’ve created in every bite.

Kitchen Equipment

To make these Key Lime Shortbread Bars, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

  • 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Zester

Recipe Tips

Key Lime Substitution: If key limes are not available, regular limes work perfectly fine. You can also use bottled key lime juice for convenience.

Storage: Store your Key Lime Shortbread Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Recipe Variations

Coconut Key Lime Shortbread Bars

For a tropical twist, sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the key lime topping before baking. The combination of citrus and coconut will transport you to a beachfront paradise.

FAQ

Q1: How long do Key Lime Shortbread Bars stay fresh? A1: These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. They may lose some freshness over time but will still be delicious.

Q2: Can I freeze Key Lime Shortbread Bars? A2: Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Ensure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn, and thaw them in the refrigerator.

Q3: Can I use pre-made shortbread cookies for the crust? A3: While it’s best to make the shortbread crust from scratch, you can use pre-made shortbread cookies and crush them to create the base.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Key Lime Shortbread Bars are a slice of tropical paradise that’s simple to make and a joy to savor. Whether you’re serving them at a summer picnic or as a sweet ending to an elegant dinner, these bars are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the zesty delight of Key Lime Shortbread Bars. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delightful recipes and share this recipe with your fellow dessert lovers. Happy baking!

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