Feeling like you need a little tropical escape without leaving the comfort of your home? Well, look no further than these delightful Key Lime Bars with a crunchy Macadamia Nut crust. This easy recipe combines the tangy sweetness of key limes with the buttery richness of macadamia nuts, resulting in a dessert that screams summer bliss in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself to a special treat, these bars are sure to be a hit!
Key Lime Bars With Macadamia Crust
Ingredients:
– For the Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup finely chopped macadamia nuts
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– For the Filling:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice (about 10 key limes)
– Zest of 2 key limes
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, chopped macadamia nuts, and granulated sugar for the crust. Stir in the melted butter until everything is well combined and resembles wet sand.
3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even layer. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
4. While the crust is cooling, prepare the filling. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, lime zest, and egg yolks until smooth and well blended.
5. Pour the filling mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Remove the Key Lime Bars from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow them to completely set.
7. When ready to serve, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan, and transfer them to a cutting board. Cut into squares or bars of your desired size using a sharp knife.
8. For an extra touch, garnish your Key Lime Bars with a sprinkle of additional lime zest, a dollop of whipped cream, or a few extra macadamia nuts on top.
There you have it – a taste of the tropics in the form of these scrumptious Key Lime Bars with Macadamia Crust. These creamy, zesty treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re lounging by the pool or simply craving a sunshine-infused dessert. Bring a bit of paradise to your table with this easy and delightful recipe. Enjoy the flavors and imagine yourself on a sandy beach with the waves crashing nearby!
