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Key Lime Bars Gluten Free: A Delicious and Healthy Treat

Key lime bars are a classic dessert that combines the tangy flavor of key limes with a sweet, buttery crust. For those who follow a gluten-free diet, enjoying this treat might seem challenging, but with the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a gluten-free version that is just as delicious as the original. In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of gluten-free key lime bars, from the ingredients you’ll need to step-by-step instructions, and even answer some frequently asked questions.

Why Choose Gluten-Free Key Lime Bars?

Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular, not only among those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity but also among individuals looking to reduce inflammation or improve digestive health. Traditional key lime bars often contain gluten in the crust, typically made from wheat flour. By substituting gluten-free flour, you can enjoy this delightful dessert without compromising your dietary needs.

Ingredients for Gluten-Free Key Lime Bars

To make gluten-free key lime bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Gluten-free flour blend	1 ½ cups	Ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute for all-purpose flour
Unsalted butter	½ cup	Softened
Granulated sugar	½ cup	For the crust
Key lime juice	½ cup	Freshly squeezed is best
Eggs	3 large	Room temperature
Condensed milk	1 can (14 oz)	Sweetened
Key lime zest	1 tablespoon	For added flavor
Powdered sugar	For dusting	Optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your gluten-free key lime bars:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, softened butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until the dough comes together. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.
3. Make the Filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together the key lime juice, eggs, condensed milk, and key lime zest in a separate bowl until smooth.
4. Assemble and Bake: Once the crust is done, pour the filling over the warm crust and return the pan to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set.
5. Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before transferring them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours.
6. Serve: Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Key Lime Bars

Here are some tips to ensure your gluten-free key lime bars turn out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Key Limes: Freshly squeezed key lime juice provides the best flavor. If key limes are unavailable, regular limes can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• Don’t Overbake: The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will continue to set as it cools.
• Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the bars is crucial for achieving the right texture. It allows the filling to firm up and makes cutting into clean squares easier.

Conclusion

Gluten-free key lime bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions. With a few simple substitutions and careful preparation, you can create a dessert that is both delicious and healthy. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something sweet, these bars are sure to satisfy. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the tangy, sweet goodness of gluten-free key lime bars!

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