Magic Cookie Bars Recipe – Easy, Classic & Irresistibly Delicious
If you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert that’s packed with flavor and texture, this Magic Cookie Bars Recipe is the perfect choice. Also known as Seven-Layer Bars, these delicious treats are made with a buttery graham cracker crust, layers of chocolate chips, coconut, nuts, and sweetened condensed milk that binds everything together into a gooey, chewy masterpiece.
Magic Cookie Bars are a classic, nostalgic dessert that requires minimal prep and no special baking skills, making them perfect for holidays, bake sales, or an easy weekend treat. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or a coconut fan, this layered dessert has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Nutrition & Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Active Time: 30 minutes
- Resting Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Dessert
- Servings: 12 bars
- Calories per Serving: ~250 kcal
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper or nonstick cooking spray
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Knife (for cutting the bars)
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10-12 crackers)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, to balance sweetness)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a solid crust layer.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Evenly sprinkle the chocolate chips over the graham cracker crust, followed by the butterscotch chips (if using), shredded coconut, and chopped nuts.
Step 4: Pour the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the layered ingredients. This acts as the glue that holds everything together, creating a rich, chewy texture once baked.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Keep an eye on the coconut to prevent it from over-browning.
Step 6: Cool and Set
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. This step is essential to help the bars set properly.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Once fully cooled, use a sharp knife to cut into 12 bars. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Best Results
- Press the Crust Firmly – A tightly packed crust ensures the bars hold together well.
- Use Fresh Nuts – Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their flavor.
- Experiment with Toppings – Swap butterscotch chips for white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for a twist.
- Allow Full Cooling Time – Cutting while warm can result in messy bars.
Storage & Freezing
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
These bars taste amazing with:
- A glass of cold milk
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A cup of hot coffee or tea
Conclusion
This Magic Cookie Bars Recipe is a foolproof dessert that’s sure to impress. With layers of chocolate, coconut, and nuts, each bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Whether you’re making them for a party, holiday gathering, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these bars are an easy and delightful treat. Try them today and enjoy homemade magic in every bite!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.