Key Lime Shortbread Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tangy taste of key lime with the buttery richness of shortbread. Here’s a simple recipe to make them:
Ingredients
- Shortbread Layer:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Key Lime Layer:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup key lime juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 tablespoon key lime zest
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the finished bars out.
- Make the Shortbread Layer:
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Prepare the Key Lime Layer:
- While the shortbread is baking, whisk together eggs and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add 1/4 cup flour, key lime juice, and lime zest, and whisk until well combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the key lime mixture over the hot shortbread crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Lift out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Key Lime Shortbread Bars! They’re perfect for a refreshing summer treat or a citrusy dessert option year-round.