Key Lime Pie Bars – Browned Butter Blondie: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

Key Lime Pie Bars – Browned Butter Blondie are an incredible twist on classic dessert flavors. This delightful treat combines the tangy brightness of key lime with the nutty richness of browned butter blondies. The moment you take a bite, you experience layers of flavor that dance harmoniously on your palate. An ideal dessert for any gathering, these bars will impress your friends and family.
Imagine sinking your fork into a soft, dense blondie layer that’s kissed with the nutty aroma of browned butter, topped delicately with a refreshing key lime curd. It’s a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness that creates a delicious experience. Moreover, the simplicity of preparation makes this recipe accessible for both novice and seasoned bakers.
If you’re looking for a dessert that exudes summertime vibes, look no further than Key Lime Pie Bars – Browned Butter Blondie. This dessert needs to be on your baking list for its wonderful taste and beautiful presentation. Let’s explore some reasons why this recipe will become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Key Lime Pie Bars – Browned Butter Blondie. Here are just a few:
1. Unique Flavor Combination – The tanginess of key lime pairs beautifully with the warm, nutty flavor of browned butter for a delightful twist.
2. Quick and Easy – With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip these bars up in no time.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a summer BBQ, birthday celebration, or just a weeknight treat, these bars will always shine.
4. Impressive Presentation – The vibrant green hue of the key lime curd makes these bars eye-catching and perfect for impressing guests.
5. Make Ahead Option – These bars store well, making them a great dessert to prepare in advance.
Additionally, they provide a delightful bite that evokes sunshine and relaxation. Each square is a piece of summer you can enjoy year-round!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Key Lime Pie Bars – Browned Butter Blondie will take about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Below is a breakdown of the time you will need:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
– Cooling Time: 20 minutes
– Chilling Time: 30 minutes
These times may vary slightly based on your experience and kitchen equipment, so keep that in mind while planning!

Ingredients

For the Blondie Base

– 1 cup unsalted butter, browned
– 1 ½ cups brown sugar, packed
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt

For the Key Lime Layer

– ¾ cup freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
– Zest of 2 key limes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Key Lime Pie Bars – Browned Butter Blondie is straightforward. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect bars:
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.

2. Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Mix the Blondie Batter: In a large bowl, combine browned butter and brown sugar. Stir until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, blending until just combined.

5. Spread the Base: Pour the blondie batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool while preparing the key lime layer.

6. Prepare the Key Lime Curd: In a separate bowl, whisk together the key lime juice, granulated sugar, egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, and the lime zest. Pour this mixture over the cooled blondie base.

7. Bake Again: Return the dish to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until the curd is set but still slightly jiggly. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before transferring to the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.

How to Serve

Serving Key Lime Pie Bars – Browned Butter Blondie requires a bit of creativity to truly enhance the experience:
1. Presentation: Cut the bars into neat squares and arrange them on a beautiful platter. Garnish with lime slices or zest for an elegant touch.

2. Accompaniments: Consider serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the tartness.

3. Beverage Pairing: These bars go wonderfully with iced tea, lemonade, or a light dessert wine, allowing for a refreshing contrast to the flavors.

4. Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Enjoy them chilled for a refreshing treat!
By presenting these Key Lime Pie Bars beautifully, you’re sure to impress your guests and make each bite a memorable treat. Enjoy the delightful balance of flavors and the smiles they bring!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh key limes yield the best flavor for the curd. The zest also adds a vibrant aroma that elevates the bars.
– Allow Proper Cooling: After baking, ensure the blondie base is cooled completely before adding the key lime curd. This prevents the layers from mixing.
– Test for Doneness: When baking the key lime layer, keep an eye on it. The curd should be set with a slight jiggle in the center when it’s done.
– Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the sugar in the curd to your taste, especially if you prefer a more tart flavor.

Recipe Variation

Try these delicious variations to put your own spin on the Key Lime Pie Bars – Browned Butter Blondie:
1. Coconut Twist: Incorporate toasted coconut into the blondie batter for a tropical flavor that complements the key lime nicely.
2. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for a chocolatey contrast that adds a new taste dimension.
3. Seasonal Fruits: Layer fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries atop the key lime layer for a burst of color and fruitiness.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep the bars covered in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. They can last up to one week.
– Freezing: These bars can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just slice them, wrap individually, and store in airtight containers to avoid freezer burn.

Special Equipment

To successfully create these bars, consider having the following equipment on hand:
– 8×8-inch Baking Dish: Essential for baking and allowing the bars to set properly.
– Mixing Bowls: Use for combining the blondie and key lime ingredients comfortably.
– Whisk: Handy for ensuring the key lime curd is lump-free and well-mixed.
– Rubber Spatula: Perfect for smoothly spreading the batter and curd in the baking dish.
– Zester: Useful for obtaining the lime zest, which adds fantastic flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute other citrus juices for key lime?
Yes, you can use lemon or regular lime juice if key limes are unavailable, but the flavor will differ slightly.
What if I want a gluten-free version?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to accommodate dietary needs.
How do I know when the blondie base is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
Can these bars be made vegan?
Substituting eggs with applesauce or flax eggs and using vegan butter is possible. Adjust the sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Can I make these bars without browning the butter?
Yes, you can simply melt the butter without browning it. However, the nutty flavor will be less pronounced.

Conclusion

Key Lime Pie Bars – Browned Butter Blondie is a delightful dessert that brings a unique flavor combination to your table. The harmony of tangy key lime curd layered on a rich, nutty blondie base results in a treat that is both refreshing and indulgent. Whether enjoyed at a summer gathering, a special occasion, or simply when you have a craving, these bars are sure to impress everyone. Your baking escapades will definitely be enriched with this dessert, making it a must-try recipe!

Print