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White Chocolate Key Lime Bars

A refreshing and creamy dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust, zesty key lime filling, and a luscious white chocolate topping, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Tropical
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs Use fresh crumbs for the best flavor; can substitute with digestive biscuits.
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar White sugar works, coconut sugar is an option.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted Use unsalted for better control of salt levels.
For the Filling
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk Opt for a high-quality brand like Eagle Brand.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar Packed adds a rich flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Use unsalted for a glossy filling.
For the White Chocolate Layer
  • 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips Ghirardelli is recommended; can use chopped white chocolate bars.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream Use heavy whipping cream for a luxurious topping.
  • 1/4 cup fresh key lime juice Fresh is best, Persian limes can substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon key lime zest Zest before juicing.
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened Should be at room temperature.
Optional Garnishes
  • Extra lime zest For garnish.
  • Lime slices or twists For added elegance.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press mixture into a lined 8x8-inch pan. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown and let cool completely.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until thickened and smooth, about 5 to 7 minutes. Pour over the cooled crust and let set.
Create the White Chocolate Mousse
  1. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until warm but not boiling. Pour over white chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for a minute. Stir until smooth. Add cream cheese, key lime juice, and key lime zest, whisking until fully combined.
Assembly
  1. Pour the white chocolate lime mixture over the middle layer, spreading it evenly.
  2. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set, preferably overnight.
  3. Once set, lift from the pan using parchment paper, cut into squares, and garnish if desired.

Notes

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully. For variations, consider adding coconut or fresh fruits.