Creamy Lime Pie Bars
Creamy lime pie bars with an almond-oat crust and creamy, cashew-based filling! Perfectly tart, naturally sweetened, and so delicious! 10 basic ingredients required.
Creamy lime pie bars with an almond-oat crust and creamy, cashew-based filling! Perfectly tart, naturally sweetened, and so delicious! 10 basic ingredients required.
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1 cup coconut cream* ((the hardened portion at the top
- 2 tbsp arrowroot starch ((or cornstarch though i prefer arrowroot in this recipe))
- 1/2 cup lime juice ((regular or key lime))
- 1 tbsp lime zest ((2 limes yield ~1 heaping tbsp or 4 g
- 1/4 cup maple syrup ((or agave nectar // plus more to tas
- 2 tbsp organic powdered sugar ((optional // for topping)
- 1 cup gluten-free oats
- 1 cup almonds ((i mixed almonds and pecans))
- 1 1/2 tbsp coconut sugar
- 3-4 tbsp coconut oil ((melted))
- Carbohydrate 4.97614444444444 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 7.0555 g
- Fiber 0.456666666666667 g
- Protein 2.33052222222222 g
- Saturated Fat 1.39389888888889 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (bars) (17g)
- Sodium 567.656388888889 mg
- Sugar 4.51947777777778 g
- Trans Fat 0.310533333333333 g
- Calories 87 calories
Step-by-step
- Add raw cashews to a mixing bowl and cover with boiling hot water. Let rest for 1 hour (uncovered). Then drain thoroughly.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (176 C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper (adjust number/size of pan if altering batch size).
- Add oats, nuts, sea salt, and coconut sugar to a high-speed blender and mix on high until a fine meal is achieved.
- Add melted coconut oil, starting with 3 Tbsp (45 ml) and adding more if it's too dry. Pulse/stir with a spoon to combine until a loose dough is formed. You should be able to squeeze the mixture between two fingers and form a dough instead of it crumbling. If too dry, add a bit more melted coconut oil.
- Transfer mixture to parchment-lined baking sheet and spread evenly. Then place parchment paper on top and use a flat-bottomed object, such as a drinking glass, to press down firmly until it’s evenly distributed and well packed. A little may go up the sides, which is good!
- Bake for 12 minutes, then increase heat to 375 F (190 C) and bake for 5-8 minutes more or until the edges are golden brown and there is some browning on the surface. Remove from oven to cool slightly. Then reduce oven heat to 350 degrees F (176 C).
- Once cashews are soaked and drained, add to a high-speed blender with coconut cream, arrowroot starch, lime juice and zest, sea salt, and maple syrup.
- Mix on high until very creamy and smooth.
- Taste and adjust flavor as needed. I added a bit more zest and maple syrup. It should be very citrusy, and not overly sweet.
- Pour filling over the pre-baked crust and spread into an even layer. Tap on counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Bake for 18-23 minutes or until the edges look very slightly dry and the center appears “giggly” but not liquidy.
- Let rest for 10 minutes, then transfer to refrigerator to let cool completely (uncovered) - at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- To serve, slice and sift with powdered sugar (optional). Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, up to 4 days, though best within the first 2-3 days.
My Creamy Lime Pie Bar Adventure: A Recipe for Success (and Happiness!)
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Finding a dessert recipe that's both delicious and quick to make is a rare treasure. That's why I'm so excited to share this Creamy Lime Pie Bar recipe with you all! It's become a staple in my household, perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. The tangy lime flavor is a refreshing change from overly sweet treats, and the creamy cashew filling is simply divine. Believe me, even the pickiest eaters in my family gobble these up!
What initially drew me to this recipe was its simplicity. The ingredient list is surprisingly short, and most of the items are things I usually keep on hand. No need for a frantic last-minute dash to the grocery store! The instructions are straightforward and easy to follow, even for a novice baker like me. This recipe is incredibly forgiving; even if you slightly alter the measurements, the end result is still fantastic. That's the mark of a truly great recipe!
The best part? These lime pie bars are incredibly versatile. They're perfect for potlucks, office parties, or just a simple weeknight treat. I've even adapted the recipe to create mini versions for individual servings—perfect for lunchboxes or packed snacks. My kids absolutely adore them, and I love knowing they’re enjoying a delicious and relatively healthy dessert. The natural sweetness from maple syrup and the healthy fats from cashews make me feel good about giving them a sweet treat.
The process of making these bars is incredibly satisfying. I find the act of measuring, mixing, and baking therapeutic. It's a perfect way to unwind after a long day, and the aroma of baking oats and lime filling is simply heavenly. Plus, the vibrant green color of the filling is visually appealing. The whole experience, from start to finish, is pure joy!
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different nuts in the crust – pecans, walnuts, or even macadamia nuts would work wonderfully. You can also adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a tarter pie, simply reduce the amount of maple syrup. Similarly, if you’re a lime fanatic (like me!), feel free to add a bit more zest for an extra punch of flavor. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe isn’t just about the baking process; it's about the memories created while making and sharing them. I’ve had many happy occasions centered around these lime pie bars. From birthday celebrations to casual gatherings with friends, they’ve always been a crowd-pleaser. The positive feedback I receive each time is always a rewarding experience. I love seeing people’s faces light up when they take a bite of these delightful treats.
So, whether you're a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, give this Creamy Lime Pie Bar recipe a try. It's a simple, satisfying, and delicious recipe that's perfect for any occasion. Trust me, you won't be disappointed! And remember, even the simplest recipes can bring joy and create lasting memories—especially when shared with loved ones.
Tips for Success:
- Soak those cashews! Soaking the cashews ensures a creamy, smooth filling. Don't skip this step!
- Don't overbake the crust. A slightly underbaked crust ensures a tender, flaky texture.
- Let it cool completely. Allowing the pie bars to cool completely before serving ensures they set properly and hold their shape.
- Get creative with toppings! Experiment with different toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate.
Beyond its deliciousness, this recipe has become a symbol of my own self-care. It’s a small act of self-love, a moment of calm amidst the chaos of daily life. Baking these bars reminds me to slow down, to appreciate the simple pleasures, and to savor the moments. It's a sweet escape from the everyday grind and a delicious reward for a day well spent. And for that, I’m eternally grateful.
