There's something incredibly refreshing about the tangy-sweet combination of key lime. It's like a burst of sunshine on your taste buds, transporting you to a tropical paradise with each bite. And when you pair that with the buttery goodness of shortbread, you have a recipe for pure delight. That's what these Key Lime Shortbread Bars are all about – a mouthwatering treat that will leave you craving more.

It was a scorching summer day, and I had just returned from a long, exhausting hike. I wanted something that would not only quench my thirst but also satisfy my dessert cravings. That's when I remembered I had a batch of Key Lime Shortbread Bars in the fridge. As I sunk my teeth into that first bite, I was transported to a beachside cabana, where the sea breeze played with my hair and the waves crashed gently in the background. It was a moment of sheer bliss, a moment I knew I had to recreate again and again.

Ingredients:

1½ cups flour
1½ sticks salted butter at room temperature
⅓ cup powdered sugar (need extra for garnish)

For the topping:
1¼ cups sugar
2 eggs at room temperature
¼ lime juice (or key limes) plus 1 teaspoon zest
¼ cup flour
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. For the shortbread crust, cream together butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Mix in 1½ cups flour until crumbly. Press into the pan and bake for 15-20 minutes until edges are golden.

3. For the key lime topping, whisk granulated sugar and eggs, then add lime juice and zest. Sift in ¼ cup flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder. Stir in vanilla extract.

4. Pour the key lime topping over the baked shortbread crust.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the topping is set and edges turn golden.

6. Cool the bars in the pan on a wire rack. Use fridge to set. This may take 1 hour to chill.

7. Dust with powdered sugar for garnish.

8. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve. Enjoy!

These Key Lime Shortbread Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion – a summertime picnic, a potluck with friends, or simply a well-deserved indulgence after a long day. Let the zesty lime flavor and buttery shortbread crust transport you to a tropical oasis, even if just for a moment. So go ahead, save this recipe and let the magic unfold in your kitchen.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove