Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars are incredibly easy to make and require no oven time, making them perfect for warm days. The bright lime flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and slightly nutty crust. They’re completely plant-based, naturally sweetened, and can be made ahead for convenience. With their smooth texture and refreshing taste, they’re a crowd-pleasing dessert that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
for the crust:
dates
almonds or cashews
coconut oil
salt
for the filling:
cashews (soaked)
coconut cream
lime juice
lime zest
maple syrup
vanilla extract
Directions
Line a square baking pan with parchment paper.
In a food processor, blend the dates, nuts, coconut oil, and salt until the mixture sticks together and forms a crumbly dough. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Place in the refrigerator to set.
For the filling, drain the soaked cashews and add them to a blender along with coconut cream, lime juice, lime zest, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
Pour the filling over the chilled crust and spread evenly.
Place the pan in the freezer for about 2–3 hours, or until firm.
Once set, remove from the freezer and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing into bars.
Servings and timing
Servings: 9–12 bars
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 2–3 hours
Total time: approximately 2.5–3 hours
Variations
You can swap lime with lemon for a different citrus flavor. Add shredded coconut to the crust for extra texture, or mix in a bit of avocado to the filling for added creaminess. For a sweeter version, increase the maple syrup slightly. You can also top the bars with coconut whipped cream or lime slices for presentation.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. For best texture, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. These bars are not meant to be reheated.
FAQs
Do I need to soak the cashews?
Yes, soaking softens them and helps create a smooth, creamy filling.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
Are these bars very sweet?
They have a balanced sweetness with a tangy lime flavor, but you can adjust the maple syrup to taste.
Can I make them nut-free?
You can try substituting the nuts with seeds like sunflower seeds, though the flavor will change.
How do I know when they’re ready?
They should be firm to the touch and hold their shape when sliced.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for making in advance and storing until needed.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, agave syrup or another liquid sweetener can be used.
Why is my filling not smooth?
This usually happens if the cashews weren’t soaked long enough or blended thoroughly.
Can I add a topping?
Yes, coconut whipped cream or a sprinkle of lime zest works well.
Do they need to stay refrigerated?
Yes, to maintain their texture and freshness.
Conclusion
No-Bake Vegan Key Lime Bars are a simple, refreshing dessert that combines creamy texture with bright citrus flavor. Easy to prepare and full of natural ingredients, they’re a perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion.
PrintNo-Bake Vegan Key Lime Bars
No-Bake Vegan Key Lime Bars are a creamy, tangy dessert with a naturally sweet nut-based crust and a smooth citrus filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 9-12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- Dates
- Almonds or cashews
- Coconut oil
- Salt
- Cashews (soaked)
- Coconut cream
- Lime juice
- Lime zest
- Maple syrup
- Vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line a square baking pan with parchment paper.
- Blend dates, nuts, coconut oil, and salt in a food processor until the mixture sticks together.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust and refrigerate to set.
- Drain soaked cashews and add to a blender with coconut cream, lime juice, lime zest, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
- Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly.
- Freeze for 2–3 hours until firm.
- Let sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Soak cashews to achieve a smooth filling texture.
- Use fresh lime juice for best flavor.
- Adjust maple syrup for desired sweetness.
- Add shredded coconut to the crust for texture.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 weeks.
- Let bars soften slightly before serving for best consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
