Magic Cookie Bars, also known as Seven Layer Bars, are a delightful treat that has stood the test of time. With their irresistible combination of graham cracker crust, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts, these bars offer the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Whether you're hosting a party, preparing for a holiday, or simply indulging in a homemade dessert, these Magic Cookie Bars are guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Magic Cookie Bars are the ultimate easy-to-make dessert that is both comforting and decadent. With minimal prep time and a few simple ingredients, these bars come together quickly and deliver a rich, indulgent flavor. The layers of graham cracker crust, chocolate, coconut, and nuts create a mouthwatering combination that is impossible to resist. Plus, they’re versatile—swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you're baking for a crowd or a small family gathering, these bars are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1⅓ cups flaked sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a glass baking dish, preheat to 325°F (165°C).
- Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, extending over the edges for easy removal. Lightly coat with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter; mix until the crumbs are fully moistened.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust.
- Layer the chocolate chips, flaked coconut, and chopped nuts evenly over the condensed milk.
- Using the back of a fork or spatula, gently press down on the layers to compact them slightly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, use the overhanging parchment or foil to lift the bars out of the pan. Transfer to a cutting board and cut into bars or diamonds.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 24 bars
Variations
- Nut-Free: Skip the nuts for a nut-free version. You can replace them with additional chocolate chips or a different type of candy mix-in.
- Vegan: Use dairy-free butter and vegan chocolate chips to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or use gluten-free cookie crumbs as the base.
- Add-Ins: Experiment with adding white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even caramel for a different flavor twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store Magic Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can freeze the bars by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: If you prefer your Magic Cookie Bars warm, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I make Magic Cookie Bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature or refrigerate them for up to a week.
2. Can I use sweetened coconut instead of flaked coconut?
Yes, sweetened coconut works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness of the bars if necessary.
3. Can I use other types of nuts in Magic Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or almonds all work great, so feel free to use your favorite nuts.
4. Can I substitute the graham cracker crumbs?
You can use any type of cookie crumbs, such as digestive biscuits or even gluten-free cookies, for a different flavor or dietary need.
5. How do I prevent the bars from burning on top?
To avoid overbaking or burning, keep an eye on the bars after 25 minutes. If they look too brown, cover the top loosely with foil and continue baking until done.
6. Can I make these bars without the sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is essential for the texture and sweetness, but you can substitute it with coconut milk and a bit of sugar if you're looking for a dairy-free alternative.
7. Can I add other ingredients like dried fruit or candy?
Yes, dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or candy like M&Ms can be added for more variety.
8. How do I know when the bars are done?
The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan.
9. How can I cut the bars evenly?
Let the bars cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife to make clean cuts into even squares or diamonds.
10. Can I use a different pan size?
If you're using a pan larger or smaller than 9x13 inches, adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan will require a shorter baking time, while a smaller pan will need a little longer.
Conclusion
Magic Cookie Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion—easy to make, delicious, and incredibly versatile. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or get creative with your own variations, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends. They offer a rich, satisfying flavor that will leave everyone coming back for more. Happy baking!
Magic Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Magic Cookie Bars, also known as Seven Layer Bars, are a classic dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts. These easy-to-make bars are rich, indulgent, and perfect for parties, holidays, or a sweet homemade treat.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1⅓ cups flaked sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) or 325°F (165°C) for a glass baking dish.
- Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil and lightly coat with non-stick spray.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until fully moistened. Press evenly into the pan to form the crust.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust.
- Layer chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts over the milk.
- Gently press down on the layers using the back of a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until lightly browned on top.
- Cool completely before removing from the pan. Cut into bars and serve.
Notes
- Nut-Free Option: Omit nuts or replace with extra chocolate chips.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter and vegan chocolate chips.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free cookie crumbs.
- Storage: Store at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for a week. Bars can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
