Key Lime Shortbread Bars are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors. These delightful treats are a favorite among dessert enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of making these scrumptious bars, step by step. So, let’s get started on our culinary adventure!
Ingredients:
| For the Shortbread Base: |
|
| 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened |
1/2 cup powdered sugar |
| 2 cups all-purpose flour |
1/4 teaspoon salt |
| Zest of 1 lime |
|
| For the Key Lime Filling: |
|
| 1 cup granulated sugar |
4 large eggs |
| 2/3 cup fresh key lime juice (you can also use regular lime juice) |
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour |
| 1/2 teaspoon baking powder |
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional) |
|
Lime slices for garnish (optional) |
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
- Make the Shortbread Base: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and lime zest. Mix until just combined. Press the shortbread mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake the shortbread in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden brown around the edges. Remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Key Lime Filling: In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, key lime juice, all-purpose flour, and baking powder until well combined. Pour the key lime filling over the baked shortbread base.
- Bake the Bars: Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set, and the center is just slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the Key Lime Shortbread Bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until well chilled. This will make them easier to slice.
- Slice and Garnish: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board. Slice the bars into squares or rectangles. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Garnish with thin lime slices for an extra touch of citrus flavor (optional).
- Enjoy: Serve your Key Lime Shortbread Bars chilled and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet, buttery shortbread and tangy key lime filling.
