7 Layer Bars Recipe
Introduction
These classic 7 Layer Bars are a delightful no-bake treat with layers of graham cracker, coconut, chocolate, butterscotch, and nuts. Perfectly sweet and crunchy, they are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup coconut flakes (or shredded coconut)
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 14 ounce sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350℉. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or coat it with non-stick spray and set aside.
- Step 2: Use a fork to combine the melted butter and graham cracker crumbs. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using an offset spatula if you have one.
- Step 3: Evenly layer the coconut flakes, semi-sweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and chopped walnuts over the graham cracker crust.
- Step 4: Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top of all the layers.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 28 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown.
- Step 6: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before removing and slicing, which should take at least 3 hours to set properly.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or substitute with pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
- Use a mix of white and dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Press the crust firmly and evenly to ensure a sturdy base that holds the layers well.
Storage
Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, bring frozen bars to room temperature or warm slightly to soften before slicing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of flakes?
Yes, sweetened shredded coconut will work fine. It may add extra sweetness and a slightly different texture, but the bars will still be delicious.
Do these bars need to be refrigerated?
They can be stored at room temperature if kept in an airtight container and consumed within a few days. Refrigeration extends their shelf life and helps them hold their shape longer, especially in warm climates.
Print7 Layer Bars Recipe
These classic 7 Layer Bars, also known as Magic Bars, combine a buttery graham cracker crust with layers of coconut, semi-sweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and crunchy walnuts, all topped with sweetened condensed milk. Baked to golden perfection, they’re a rich, chewy, and delightful treat perfect for potlucks and dessert tables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Crust
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
Layers
- 1 cup coconut flakes (or shredded coconut)
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 14 ounce sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or applying non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the graham cracker crumbs using a fork until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, using an offset spatula or your fingers to compact it tightly.
- Add the Layers: Evenly sprinkle the coconut flakes, semi-sweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and chopped walnuts over the graham cracker crust to create distinct layers.
- Drizzle Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour the sweetened condensed milk slowly and evenly over the top of the layered ingredients to bind them together during baking.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22 to 28 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown and the layered ingredients have set.
- Cool and Slice: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan for at least 3 hours before lifting them out and slicing into squares to serve.
Notes
- Use parchment paper with overhangs on the sides to easily lift out the bars after baking.
- You can substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts if preferred.
- For extra chewiness, sprinkle a little extra shredded coconut on top before baking.
- Ensure the bars are fully cooled before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Keywords: 7 layer bars, magic bars, graham cracker dessert, layered dessert bars, easy dessert recipes, chocolate chip bars, coconut bars, butterscotch bars, walnut dessert
