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If you are craving a nostalgic, gooey dessert that is equal parts easy and decadent, these 7 Layer Bars are your answer. They come together in a single pan with layers of flavor and texture in every bite, making them perfect for bake sales, celebrations, or when you just want a sweet treat without much effort.
When I first whipped these up for a last-minute potluck, they became the only dessert anyone asked about all night. Now they are always my go-to when I need something both simple and impressive.
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs: Help create a buttery and sturdy base Use fresh or make your own crumbs for best flavor
- Salted butter: Brings richness and helps bind the crust Look for one that is high quality for the best texture
- Sweetened shredded coconut: Adds chewy texture and tropical sweetness Toast lightly for extra flavor if you wish
- Semi sweet chocolate chips: Melt beautifully and give deep chocolate notes Try using mini chips for even meltier layers
- Butterscotch chips: Offer caramel like flavor and a lovely sweetness Be sure to choose real butterscotch for best taste
- Pecans: Roughly chopped for crunch and nutty depth Toasting brings out extra nuttiness
- Sweetened condensed milk: Holds everything together and gives gooeyness Choose full fat for a richer bar
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Spray a nine by thirteen inch baking pan with baker’s spray or line it completely with parchment so lifting the bars out is easy later
- Make the Crust:
- Mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted salted butter in a medium bowl Use a fork or your hands and blend until the mixture is evenly moist Press this mixture firmly into the baking pan so you have a smooth even layer This step ensures your crust holds together
- Layer the Fillings:
- Sprinkle sweetened shredded coconut evenly over the crust Follow with a layer of chocolate chips then a layer of butterscotch chips and finish with chopped pecans Spread each ingredient edge to edge for balanced flavor in every bite
- Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk:
- Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk slowly over the entire pan Do your best to cover all the toppings with the milk so every bite turns out soft and chewy
- Bake:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven Bake for twenty five to twenty eight minutes Watch for the sides to turn a light golden brown and the center to set While baking the sweetened condensed milk bubbles up and caramelizes for unbeatable flavor
- Cool and Slice:
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely This is important for clean slices Cut into squares using a sharp knife Wipe the knife between cuts for perfect edges
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I am personally hooked on the toasted pecans and have strong memories of making these with my grandmother for family holidays She always insisted on adding a few extra pecans just for me and it is still my favorite part each time I taste one
Storage Tips
After slicing keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days For longer lasting freshness freeze them on a tray then transfer to a freezer bag They defrost quickly and taste almost as fresh as day one
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap walnuts or almonds for pecans if you like Try using white chocolate or peanut butter chips instead of butterscotch if that is what you have on hand For a gluten free version use certified gluten free graham crackers
Serving Suggestions
These bars pair wonderfully with coffee or tea Serve them slightly warmed with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert They are also perfect party favors when wrapped in parchment and tied with a ribbon
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Cultural and Historical Context
Sometimes called Magic Cookie Bars these treats became wildly popular thanks to a recipe published by Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk in the nineteen sixties They have remained a beloved bake sale classic in American kitchens for generations
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes these bars so rich and flavorful?
The layers of chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, coconut, and pecans combined with sweetened condensed milk create a deliciously rich dessert.
- → Can I substitute other nuts for pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds work well in place of pecans for a different flavor or to accommodate allergies.
- → How do I ensure the crust holds together?
Press the graham cracker and butter mixture firmly into the pan to create a stable and even base for the toppings.
- → Why drizzle the condensed milk last?
Drizzling condensed milk over the top helps bind the layers and adds moisture, turning the bars perfectly chewy after baking.
- → How long should the bars cool before slicing?
Allow the bars to cool completely so they set properly, making slicing and serving much easier.