Raw Sweet Lime Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s simple, energizing, and irresistibly bright in flavor. The creamy lime layer has a silky, cheesecake-like texture without any baking or refined sugar. The crust comes together in minutes and offers a satisfying crunch that complements the citrusy filling perfectly. These bars keep well in the fridge or freezer, making them a great make-ahead dessert that feels both refreshing and nourishing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

• Raw cashews or almonds
• Shredded unsweetened coconut
• Medjool dates, pitted
• Pinch of salt
• Zest of one lime

For the lime filling:

• Raw cashews (soaked)
• Fresh lime juice
• Lime zest
• Coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk
• Maple syrup or agave nectar
• Coconut oil, melted
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Prepare the crust: In a food processor, combine nuts, coconut, dates, lime zest, and salt. Process until the mixture sticks together when pressed.
2. Form the base: Press the crust evenly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan. Place in the freezer while preparing the filling.
3. Make the filling: Drain the soaked cashews and blend them with lime juice, lime zest, coconut cream, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla, and salt. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble: Pour the lime filling over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Chill: Freeze for at least 3–4 hours, or until firm enough to slice.
6. Serve: Remove from the freezer and let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cutting into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 bars.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Total time: Approximately 4 hours and 20 minutes

Variations

• Lemon-Lime Bars: Use half lemon juice and half lime juice for a balanced citrus flavor.
• Key Lime Bars: Substitute key limes for a sharper, more aromatic taste.
• Tropical Twist: Add pineapple juice or mango puree to the filling for a fruity blend.
• Matcha Lime Bars: Mix in ½ teaspoon of matcha powder for a green tea flavor boost.
• Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seeds or oats in place of nuts for the crust.

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 months. For best texture, enjoy them slightly chilled or allow to soften at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. These bars are meant to be served cold — no reheating needed.

FAQs

Do I need to soak the cashews?

Yes, soaking makes them softer and ensures a smooth, creamy filling. Soak for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.

What can I use instead of coconut cream?

You can use soaked cashews blended with a bit more coconut oil for richness.

Can I make this recipe without a food processor?

A high-speed blender can handle both the crust and filling, though you may need to scrape down the sides often.

Can I substitute the dates?

If you don’t have dates, try dried figs or raisins, but you may need to adjust for sweetness.

How do I make the bars sweeter?

Add a bit more maple syrup or agave nectar to the filling to taste.

Will the bars melt if left out?

Yes, they’ll soften quickly at room temperature due to the coconut oil base, so keep them chilled until ready to serve.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes, replace cashews with sunflower seeds or hemp hearts, and use oats for the crust.

Can I add other flavors?

Absolutely—mint, basil, or even a little ginger pairs beautifully with lime.

How do I cut the bars neatly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry before each cut.

Conclusion

Raw Sweet Lime Bars are a delightfully tangy, refreshing treat that’s as beautiful as it is nourishing. With their creamy lime filling and chewy nutty crust, they deliver the perfect balance of zest and sweetness — no baking required. Ideal for summer desserts or healthy snacks, these bars offer a naturally vibrant way to enjoy citrus flavor in every bite.

Raw Sweet Lime Bars

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Raw Sweet Lime Bars are a refreshing, no-bake dessert featuring a zesty lime-cashew filling over a chewy coconut-nut crust. They’re creamy, tangy, and naturally sweetened with dates and maple syrup — a wholesome, plant-based treat that’s perfect for summer or healthy snacking. Vegan, gluten-free, and made with simple ingredients, these bars deliver bright citrus flavor in every bite.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: Raw Vegan
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• For the crust:
  • 1 cup raw cashews or almonds
  • ¾ cup shredded unsweetened coconut
  • 8 Medjool dates, pitted
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • Pinch of salt
• For the lime filling:
  • 1 ½ cups raw cashews (soaked for 4 hours or overnight)
  • ½ cup fresh lime juice
  • Zest of 1–2 limes
  • ½ cup coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
  • ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: In a food processor, combine nuts, shredded coconut, dates, lime zest, and salt. Process until the mixture holds together when pressed.
2. Form the base: Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan. Freeze while preparing the filling.
3. Make the filling: Drain soaked cashews and blend with lime juice, zest, coconut cream, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble: Pour the lime filling over the crust and smooth the surface with a spatula.
5. Freeze: Chill in the freezer for at least 3–4 hours, or until firm.
6. Serve: Let the bars sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve chilled.

Notes

• Soak cashews for a creamy, smooth filling texture.
• Use key limes for a more aromatic flavor.
• For extra tang, add additional lime zest or juice to the filling.
• Keep bars stored cold to maintain texture — they soften at room temperature.
• Use sunflower seeds and oats for a nut-free version.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg