Gluten-Free Key Lime Bars

Hi Bakers!

I had this recipe stashed away in a file and was inspired by Key limes in the grocery store to try it out. The crust is the only part with gluten, so this recipe was an easy thing to convert. I would typically use gf Grahams Pamela’s is my favorite but of course, so couldn’t find them! I made some pretty bland animal crackers work by doctoring them with some extra ingredients that are not needed with Grahams. I reduced the butter in the crust by 1 tablespoon since gluten-free ingredients sometimes can’t hold as much oil. Alter your amount of cracker to achieve the right texture. You want the unbaked crust to be able to be packed into the bottom of the pan but not too oily so that it falls apart. Aim for the texture of damp sand.  I hope that helps! Let me know how your bake goes and send me your photos-Carolyn

Key Lime Bars

Modified for gluten-free From Martha Steward’s Living Magazine

Makes 16

Crust

1 1/4 cup gluten-free animal crackers

2 tablespoons coconut flakes

1/4 teaspoon  ground ginger

4 tablespoons butter

Optional: 2 tablespoons pecans 

Filling

3 large egg yolks

1 1/2 teaspoons lime zest

1 can sweetened condensed milk

2/3 cup key lime juice (about 20 limes)

Garnish

Lime slices and coconut flakes

Preheat oven to 350F and place rack in the middle position.

In a food processor mix crackers. coconut, ginger, and pecans until they are fine crumbs. Add butter and blend until the crumbs start to come together. Press into an 8x8” pan and up the sides 1/2 inch high. Bake for 12 minutes or until browned. Cool and start making the filling.

Mix 3 egg yolks and lime zest with a beater until thick. Add condensed milk while mixing at medium speed. Scrape the bowl as needed. Beat for about 3 minutes. Next, add lime juice with the mixer on low until just combined. Pour filling over the crust.

Bake until set about 12 minutes. Cool on a rack and then place in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.  Cut into squares. Garnish with whipped cream and lime slices or bits of coconut. Enjoy!