Zesty Low-Fat Key Lime Dream Bars
Indulge in a refreshing dessert with our Zesty Low-Fat Key Lime Dream Bars, a lighter twist on the classic key lime pie! These bars combine the tangy flavor of fresh lime juice and zest with smooth light cream cheese, all sitting on a perfectly crisp, low-fat graham cracker crust. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying a sweet treat without the guilt. Chill them for a refreshing dessert that brightens any occasion!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
low fat graham cracker crumbs
1.5 cups (approximately 5 ounces)
brown sugar
2 tablespoons
butter-flavored cooking spray
as needed (for greasing the pan)
light cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
lime zest
1 tablespoon (freshly grated)
fat-free sweetened condensed milk
1 can (14 ounces)
lime juice
1/3 cup (freshly squeezed (from 3 or 4 limes))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a mixing bowl, combine the low-fat graham cracker crumbs and brown sugar until well mixed.
3
Prepare an 8-inch square baking pan by laying a sheet of foil in it, allowing the edges to hang over for easy removal. Tuck the sides under and spray the foil-lined base generously with butter-flavored cooking spray.
4
Evenly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Lightly spray the top of the crust with cooking spray and press down again for a firm base.
5
In a separate medium bowl, beat the light cream cheese with an electric mixer until creamy and smooth. Add the lime zest and fat-free sweetened condensed milk, beating until fully incorporated and smooth.
6
Gradually mix in the fresh lime juice and continue to beat until the mixture is homogeneous.
7
Pour the creamy lime filling over the prepped crumb crust, smoothing out the top evenly.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is just set with a slight jiggle and the edges start to pull away from the pan.
9
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into 16 bars. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Low-Fat Key Lime Dream Bars?
They are a refreshing, lighter dessert bars that offer a tangy lime flavor with a smooth cream cheese filling on a low-fat graham cracker crust.
How many bars does this recipe produce?
This recipe yields approximately 16 bars when cut into squares from an 8-inch pan.
What is the recommended baking temperature?
The bars should be baked in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long do the lime bars need to bake?
They should bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the center is just set.
What size baking pan should I use?
An 8-inch square baking pan is recommended for this recipe.
Do I need to refrigerate the bars before serving?
Yes, they should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours before cutting and serving.
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of light?
Yes, regular cream cheese can be used, though it will increase the fat content of the bars.
Is fresh lime juice necessary?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, typically requiring 3 to 4 limes.
What type of crust is used for these bars?
The crust is made from a mixture of low-fat graham cracker crumbs and brown sugar.
How do I prepare the baking pan for easy removal?
Line the pan with foil allowing the edges to hang over the sides for easy lifting after the bars have chilled.
What makes these bars 'low-fat'?
The recipe uses low-fat graham cracker crumbs, light cream cheese, and fat-free sweetened condensed milk.
Is lime zest included in the filling?
Yes, one tablespoon of freshly grated lime zest is added to the filling for extra zing.
Should the cream cheese be softened?
Yes, the light cream cheese should be softened to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency when beating.
What is the purpose of the butter-flavored cooking spray?
It is used to grease the foil-lined pan and to help press the crumb mixture into a firm base.
Can I substitute the brown sugar in the crust?
While brown sugar adds a specific depth of flavor, you could use a sugar substitute suitable for baking if desired.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The center should have a slight jiggle and the edges should just start to pull away from the pan.
Is fat-free sweetened condensed milk required?
The recipe specifies fat-free sweetened condensed milk to keep the dessert low-fat, but regular can be used if fat content is not a concern.
How much graham cracker crumbs are needed?
You will need 1.5 cups of low-fat graham cracker crumbs, which is approximately 5 ounces.
Can these be served warm?
It is best to serve them chilled as the texture sets properly during the refrigeration process.
Is an electric mixer necessary?
Using an electric mixer is recommended to beat the cream cheese until smooth and fully incorporate the other ingredients.
Are these bars suitable for summer gatherings?
Yes, they are described as a refreshing summer treat, perfect for warm-weather occasions.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
You can use bottled juice if fresh is unavailable, though the flavor might be less vibrant.
What is the texture of the filling?
The filling is smooth and creamy, similar to a cheesecake or key lime pie.
How should I store leftover bars?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze these key lime bars?
Yes, they can be frozen; just ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe with simple steps for preparation.
Does this recipe contain any protein?
While the specific nutritional values aren't listed, the cream cheese and condensed milk contribute a small amount of protein.
Are there any alternative tags for this recipe?
Tags include dessert, key lime, guilt-free, and cheesecake bars.
Can I add a topping to these bars?
They are great as is, but a dollop of low-fat whipped topping or extra lime zest could be added for garnish.
How much lime juice is required?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice.