Magic Cookie Bars are a delightful and simple dessert that packs a lot of flavor and texture into every bite. This classic treat features a buttery graham cracker crust topped with layers of sweetened condensed milk, chocolate and butterscotch chips, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut. The combination of crunchy, chewy, and gooey elements makes these bars irresistibly delicious. Perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or any time you need a quick and easy dessert, Magic Cookie Bars are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup shredded coconut (both sweetened and unsweetened work)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it well to ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Prepare Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer for the crust.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- Layer Toppings: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, chopped pecans, and shredded coconut evenly over the condensed milk layer.
- Press Toppings: Gently press down the toppings with a fork to ensure they adhere to the condensed milk and crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the coconut starts to turn golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into small squares and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Tips
- Crust Firmness: Ensure the graham cracker crust is packed down firmly to create a stable base for the layers on top. Using the bottom of a measuring cup can help press the crumbs evenly.
- Even Distribution: For best results, distribute the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, nuts, and coconut evenly to ensure every bite has a bit of each topping.
- Cooling Time: Letting the bars cool completely before cutting helps them set properly and makes slicing easier. For quicker cooling, you can place the pan in the refrigerator.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of chips (white chocolate, dark chocolate) or nuts (walnuts, almonds) based on your preferences.
- Storage: Magic Cookie Bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage.
Notes
Magic Cookie Bars are a versatile and forgiving recipe, making them perfect for baking with kids or for those new to baking. The combination of flavors and textures is what makes these bars so special, and they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy making and sharing these magical treats!
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