Recipes.net Recipes.net logo
Social Media

Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars Recipe

Experience the zesty delight of key lime paired with the tropical essence of coconut in this dairy-free treat. Each bite of the bars is a burst of refreshing flavor atop a wholesome, nutty crust. Perfect for any occasion, these bars offer a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.

Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars Recipe
0

Photos of Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars Recipe

Some of the ingredients might not be staples in every kitchen. Ensure you have walnuts, dates, cashews, coconut oil, and key lime juice on hand. These items might require a trip to a well-stocked supermarket or health food store.

Ingredients for Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars

walnuts: Provide a rich, nutty base for the crust, adding texture and flavor.

coconut: Adds a tropical essence and natural sweetness to the crust.

dates: Act as a natural sweetener and binder for the crust.

vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.

water: Used to help blend the crust mixture.

sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.

cashews: Soaked overnight to create a creamy, dairy-free key lime layer.

key lime juice: Provides the tart, citrusy flavor essential for the bars.

maple syrup: Natural sweetener for the key lime layer.

coconut oil: Adds richness and helps set the key lime layer.

lime zest: Adds an extra burst of citrus flavor and visual appeal.

One reader, Giulietta Bernhardt says:

star icon star icon star icon star icon star icon

These dairy-free key lime coconut bars are a tropical delight! The crust is perfectly nutty and sweet, while the key lime layer is creamy and tangy. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, they were a hit at my party. Highly recommend for a refreshing, guilt-free treat!

Giulietta Bernhardt

Techniques Required for Making Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars

How to soak cashews: Place cashews in a bowl of water and let them soak overnight to soften them for blending. How to use a food processor or blender: Add ingredients to the food processor or blender and pulse until the desired consistency is achieved. How to press crust into a pan: Use your hands or a flat tool to evenly press the crust mixture into the bottom of a parchment paper-lined pan. How to blend until smooth: Continuously blend the ingredients in the food processor until the mixture has a smooth and creamy texture. How to garnish: Sprinkle lime zest and coconut on top of the key lime layer for added flavor and decoration. How to freeze and set: Cover the pan with foil and place it in the freezer for at least 3 hours until the mixture is firm and set. How to slice and serve: Remove the set mixture from the freezer, cut it into bars, and serve.

How To Make Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars

Filled with creamy and nutty goodness, these delicious dairy-free coconut bars are made of walnuts and shredded coconut topped with tangy key lime juice.

Preparation: 1 day 15 minutes
Cooking:
Freeze Time: 3 hours
Total: 1 day 3 hours 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Crust:

  • cupswalnuts,chopped
  • 1cupcoconut,shredded, or coconut flakes
  • 1cupdate,pitted
  • 1tspvanilla extract
  • 1splashwater
  • 1pinchsea salt

For Key Lime Layer:

  • cupscashew,raw
  • ½cupkey lime juice
  • ¼cupmaple syrup
  • 2tbspvanilla extract
  • lime zest
  • cupcoconut oil
  • coconut,shredded, or coconut flakes, to garnish

Instructions

  1. The night before you intend to make the key lime bars, place cashews in a bowl of water, and let soak overnight.

  2. Add the walnuts, coconut, dates, vanilla extract, water, and salt to a food processor or blender, and pulse until sticky mounds begin to form.

  3. Press the crust into an 8×8-inch freezer-safe, parchment paper-lined pan.

  4. Drain the cashews well and add to the food processor. Blend until smooth.

  5. Scrape down the sides of the processor, and add the lime juice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and lime zest.

  6. Blend until smooth, adding the coconut oil halfway.

  7. Spread the mixture on top of the crust and garnish with more lime zest and coconut.

  8. Cover with foil and freeze for 3 hours, or until set.

  9. Remove from the freezer, slice, and serve.

  10. Enjoy!

Nutrition

  • Calories: 227.25kcal
  • Fat: 15.12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6.97g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 5.05g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.82g
  • Carbohydrates: 21.47g
  • Fiber: 2.10g
  • Sugar: 14.17g
  • Protein: 4.10g
  • Sodium: 11.77mg
  • Calcium: 23.64mg
  • Potassium: 269.34mg
  • Iron: 1.59mg
  • Vitamin A: 1.14µg
  • Vitamin C: 2.54mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars

To ensure a smooth and creamy key lime layer, make sure to blend the soaked cashews thoroughly until they reach a velvety consistency. If your food processor is struggling, add a small splash of water to help it along. This will create a more cohesive and luscious filling for your key lime coconut bars.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars

Prepare ingredients ahead: Soak cashews overnight and measure out all other ingredients in advance to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: A food processor is faster than a blender for making the crust and filling.

Line the pan: Use parchment paper to line the pan for easy removal and cleanup.

Chill efficiently: Freeze the bars for at least 3 hours, but you can make them a day ahead to save time on the day you serve them.

Substitute Ingredients For Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars Recipe

  • walnuts - Substitute with almonds: Almonds provide a similar texture and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative for the crust.

  • coconut - Substitute with oats: Oats can add a similar texture and bulk to the crust without the coconut flavor.

  • date - Substitute with raisins: Raisins offer a similar sweetness and sticky texture, helping to bind the crust ingredients together.

  • vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile to the crust.

  • water - Substitute with coconut water: Coconut water can add a subtle coconut flavor and moisture to the crust.

  • sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it a suitable replacement.

  • cashew - Substitute with macadamia nuts: Macadamia nuts offer a creamy texture and rich flavor, similar to cashews.

  • key lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar tartness and acidity, though the flavor will be slightly different.

  • maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar has a similar sweetness and consistency, making it a good alternative.

  • vanilla extract - Substitute with lemon extract: Lemon extract can add a citrusy note that complements the lime flavor.

  • lime zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest provides a similar citrusy aroma and flavor.

  • coconut oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and similar fat content, making it a good substitute.

  • coconut - Substitute with shredded carrots: Shredded carrots can add a similar texture and a hint of sweetness without the coconut flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Key Lime Coconut Bars

  1. Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the key lime coconut bars into elegant, bite-sized squares to ensure a refined presentation. Each piece should be uniform and cleanly cut to showcase the layers.

  2. Use decoration: Garnish each bar with a delicate sprinkle of finely grated lime zest and a light dusting of shredded coconut. This adds a pop of color and texture, enhancing the visual appeal.

  3. Plate with contrast: Place the bars on a dark-colored plate to make the vibrant green of the key lime layer stand out. The contrast will draw attention to the dessert's beautiful layers.

  4. Add a sauce: Drizzle a thin line of coconut cream or a lime-infused syrup around the bars on the plate. This not only adds flavor but also elevates the presentation with an artistic touch.

  5. Incorporate edible flowers: Add a few small, edible flowers like violets or pansies around the bars. Their delicate appearance will complement the dessert's light and fresh flavors.

  6. Use a garnish of fresh herbs: Place a small sprig of mint or basil next to each bar. The green herbs will enhance the freshness of the key lime and coconut flavors while adding a sophisticated touch.

  7. Serve with a side: Accompany the bars with a small quenelle of coconut sorbet or a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream. This adds an extra element of indulgence and variety to the plate.

  8. Highlight texture: Sprinkle a few toasted walnut pieces around the plate to hint at the crust ingredients and add a crunchy texture contrast.

  9. Create height: Stack two bars slightly offset from each other to create a sense of height and dimension on the plate. This adds visual interest and sophistication.

  10. Finish with a citrus twist: Add a thin, twisted slice of lime on top of each bar for a final touch. This not only looks elegant but also reinforces the key lime flavor profile.

Essential Tools for Making Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars

  • Food processor: Essential for blending the walnuts, coconut, dates, and other ingredients into a sticky crust and for creating a smooth key lime layer.

  • Blender: Can be used as an alternative to the food processor for blending the ingredients.

  • Mixing bowl: Needed to soak the cashews overnight.

  • 8x8-inch freezer-safe pan: Used to press the crust into and to hold the key lime layer.

  • Parchment paper: Lining the pan with this makes it easier to remove the bars once they are set.

  • Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the food processor and spreading the key lime mixture evenly over the crust.

  • Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the walnuts, coconut, dates, cashews, key lime juice, maple syrup, and coconut oil.

  • Measuring spoons: Needed for measuring the vanilla extract and sea salt.

  • Zester: Used to zest the lime for the key lime layer and garnish.

  • Knife: For slicing the bars once they are set.

  • Foil: Used to cover the pan while the bars are freezing.

  • Refrigerator: For soaking the cashews overnight.

  • Freezer: To set the bars for 3 hours.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars

  • Once the dairy-free key lime coconut bars are set, remove them from the freezer and slice them into individual servings.
  • Place the bars in an airtight container, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
  • Store the container in the freezer for up to 1 month.
  • When ready to serve, remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
  • If you prefer a softer texture, you can store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. However, keep in mind that the crust may become slightly softer over time.
  • For optimal flavor and texture, it's best to consume the key lime coconut bars within 2 weeks of freezing.
  • If you want to store the bars for an extended period, you can wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the airtight container. This extra layer of protection will help prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the bars.

Interesting Fact About Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars

A random fact about this recipe is that it uses cashews as a base for the creamy layer, making it a great dairy-free alternative. Soaking the cashews overnight helps to soften them, resulting in a smoother texture when blended.

Is Making Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars at Home Cost-Effective?

This dairy-free key lime coconut bars recipe is moderately cost-effective. The use of walnuts, cashews, and dates can be a bit pricey, but the other ingredients like coconut, lime juice, and maple syrup are relatively affordable. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $20-$25. Given the health benefits and the unique flavor profile, the overall verdict would be a solid 7 out of 10.

Are These Dairy-Free Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?

This dairy-free key lime coconut bars recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional desserts. The use of whole food ingredients like walnuts, coconut, and dates for the crust provides a nutrient-dense base rich in healthy fats, fiber, and natural sugars. The key lime layer, made with cashews, offers a creamy texture without the need for dairy, while the lime juice and zest add a refreshing tang and a boost of vitamin C.

However, there are a few aspects of this recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

  • Reduce the amount of maple syrup in the key lime layer to lower the overall sugar content
  • Replace some of the cashews with silken tofu to decrease the fat content and increase the protein
  • Use a smaller amount of coconut oil or replace it with a healthier alternative like avocado

To further enhance the nutritional value of these key lime coconut bars, consider the following suggestions:

  • Add a handful of spinach or kale to the key lime layer for an extra dose of vitamins and minerals
  • Sprinkle the top with chia seeds or hemp hearts for a crunchy texture and a boost of omega-3 fatty acids
  • Experiment with different nuts and seeds in the crust, such as almonds or pumpkin seeds, to vary the nutrient profile
  • Serve the bars with fresh berries or a dollop of coconut yogurt for added antioxidants and probiotics

Editor's Opinion on This Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars Recipe

This dairy-free key lime coconut bars recipe is a delightful fusion of tropical flavors and creamy textures. The walnut and date crust provides a nutty, naturally sweet base, while the cashew and lime filling offers a tangy, velvety contrast. The use of coconut oil ensures a smooth consistency, and the lime zest adds a refreshing zing. Freezing the bars allows for easy slicing and a firm texture. Overall, it's a well-balanced, nutritious treat that's perfect for those avoiding dairy.

Enhance Your Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Avocado Salad: Brighten up your meal with a Mango Avocado Salad. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy mango, creating a refreshing contrast to the rich key lime coconut bars. Add a hint of cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Complement your dessert with Grilled Pineapple Skewers. The caramelized pineapple brings a smoky sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the zesty key lime flavor. A sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey elevate this simple yet delightful side.
Coconut Rice: Serve a side of Coconut Rice to enhance the tropical theme. The creamy coconut milk infuses the rice with a subtle sweetness, making it a perfect match for the tartness of the key lime coconut bars. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for added texture.
Spicy Shrimp Tacos: Add a savory twist with Spicy Shrimp Tacos. The succulent shrimp marinated in a zesty lime and chili blend offers a delightful contrast to the sweet and tangy dessert. Top with crunchy slaw and a dollop of avocado crema for a burst of flavors.
Tropical Fruit Salsa: Round out your meal with a vibrant Tropical Fruit Salsa. A medley of pineapple, mango, and papaya diced and mixed with a hint of jalapeño and lime juice creates a refreshing and spicy side that pairs wonderfully with the creamy key lime coconut bars.

Similar Recipes to Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars

Avocado Lime Tart: Dive into this creamy, zesty dessert that combines the smoothness of avocado with the tang of lime. It's a refreshing treat perfect for any occasion.
Coconut Mango Bars: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with these delightful bars. The sweetness of mango pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of coconut, making it a perfect dessert for summer.
Lemon Cashew Cheesecake: This dairy-free dessert is a citrus lover's dream. The creamy cashew base is infused with bright lemon flavors, creating a luscious and tangy treat.
Pineapple Coconut Squares: Enjoy a taste of the tropics with these delightful squares. The juicy sweetness of pineapple combined with the nutty flavor of coconut makes for an irresistible dessert.
Raspberry Almond Bars: These bars are a perfect blend of tart raspberry and nutty almond. A delightful dessert that's both sweet and satisfying, perfect for any gathering.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars

Appetizers:
Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine portobello mushrooms filled with a savory blend of herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs. The mushroom caps are baked to perfection, creating a delightful contrast between the tender filling and the slightly crispy exterior. A touch of lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness, making these a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with a classic Bruschetta. This appetizer features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt enhance the flavors, while a dash of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness. Perfect for a summer evening, this dish is both simple and sophisticated.
Main Courses:
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with aromatic herbs. Marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Grill the chicken to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a versatile and colorful main course that can be customized to suit any palate. Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground meat (such as beef, turkey, or chicken), rice, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices. Top with dairy-free cheese or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. These stuffed peppers make for a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Why trust this Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars Recipe:

This recipe for dairy-free key lime coconut bars is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious and healthy dessert. The crust made from walnuts, coconut, and dates provides a naturally sweet and crunchy base. The key lime layer is creamy and tangy, thanks to soaked cashews and fresh key lime juice. With the addition of maple syrup and coconut oil, this dessert is both indulgent and nutritious. Plus, it's easy to make and perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Trust this recipe for a refreshing treat that everyone will love.

Want to share your experience making these zesty Dairy-Free Key Lime Coconut Bars or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!
FAQ:
Can I use regular limes instead of key limes?
Absolutely! Regular limes work just fine if you can't find key limes. The flavor might be slightly different, but it'll still be delicious.
How long do these bars last in the freezer?
They can last up to a month in the freezer if stored in an airtight container. Just make sure to let them thaw a bit before serving.
Can I substitute another nut for the walnuts in the crust?
Yes, you can use almonds, pecans, or even a mix of nuts if you prefer. Just keep the measurements the same.
Do I need to use a food processor, or can I use a blender?
A food processor is ideal for this recipe, especially for the crust. However, a high-powered blender can work too. You might need to scrape down the sides more often.
Is there a way to make this recipe without coconut oil?
You can try using another neutral oil like avocado oil, but keep in mind that coconut oil helps with the texture and setting of the bars.

Was this page helpful?

Chat Bubble Icon Share your own special recipe
Submit Your Own Recipe

Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!