Description
These Lime Shortbread Bars feature a buttery, crumbly shortbread crust topped with a tangy, smooth lime filling. Perfectly balanced with sweet and tart flavors, these bars are dusted with powdered sugar and chilled for a refreshing dessert that's ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
Filling
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 6 tablespoons lime juice (about 3 medium limes)
- 2 teaspoons finely grated lime zest (from about 3 medium limes)
- 1-2 drops green food coloring (optional)
Topping
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F and position the rack in the lower-middle. Spray an 8 x 8-inch pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper, allowing the paper edges to overhang for easy lifting. Spray the parchment paper as well.
- Make and Bake the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix 1 cup flour, kosher salt, and 1/2 cup sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is fully moistened. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan using the bottom of a measuring cup. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is pale golden.
- Prepare the Lime Filling: While the crust bakes, sift the remaining 3/4 cup sugar and 1 1/2 tablespoons flour into a bowl. Whisk in the eggs, lime juice, and lime zest until smooth. Add green food coloring if you want a brighter green hue, mixing to combine.
- Finish Baking: After the crust has baked, allow it to cool for 10 minutes. Pour the lime filling over the warm crust and return the pan to the oven. Bake for another 20 to 25 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool for one hour. Then, transfer the bars to the refrigerator and chill for at least an additional hour to fully set.
- Serve: Use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the bars from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar and cut into 12 squares. For clean cuts, wipe your knife between each slice.
Notes
- Using room temperature eggs helps create a smooth filling without curdling.
- Chilling the bars ensures clean slicing and enhances flavor fusion.
- Green food coloring is optional but adds a vibrant visual appeal.
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best flavor intensity.
- Storing bars in the refrigerator keeps them fresh for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
