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I wanna tell you about these amazing Magic Cookie Bars that stack yummy layers into an addictive sweet snack. This old-school dessert has made folks happy for years with its mix of crunchy and gooey stuff.
I've made these tons of times and learned that getting the graham cracker bottom just right and pouring the condensed milk evenly makes bars that won't fall apart when you pick them up.
Key Ingredients
- Graham crackers (1½ cups crushed): Forms the foundation
- Unsalted butter (½ cup): Keeps the base together
- Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz): The sticky stuff that works wonders
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Gives that chocolatey goodness
- Butterscotch chips (1 cup): Adds sweet buttery flavor
- Shredded coconut (1⅓ cups): Makes everything nicely chewy
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): Brings the needed crunch
Step-by-Step Guide
- Getting Ready
- Heat your oven to 350°F, Put parchment paper in a 9x13 pan with extra hanging over sides, Grease any parts of the pan you can see
- Making the Bottom
- Smash graham crackers into tiny bits, Stir in melted butter until wet, Push down hard into the pan, A measuring cup works great to flatten it
- Adding Layers
- Scatter chocolate chips all over, Drop butterscotch chips on next, Spread coconut everywhere, Sprinkle pecans on top, Drizzle condensed milk over everything
- Cooking Time
- Stick in the hot oven, Cook 25-30 minutes till golden, Look for light brown edges, Middle should be firm
- Finishing Up
- Let it cool all the way in the pan, Pull it out with the paper edges, Cut into squares with a nice sharp knife, Wipe knife between cuts
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Keeping Them Fresh
On the counter - 3 days if sealed up tight, In the fridge - keeps a week, In the freezer - good for 3 months if wrapped carefully
Last thoughts: These Magic Cookie Bars really do seem like magic when you taste them. The simple stuff transforms into something incredible. Some folks call them Seven Layer Bars or Hello Dollies, but whatever the name, your family's gonna ask for them again and again.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long do Magic Bars stay good?
- Keep them in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for 3 months.
- → Can I swap pecans in Magic Bars?
- Sure, try other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even cashews while keeping the amounts similar.
- → Why the name Magic Bars?
- It's because the condensed milk ties all the layers beautifully as they bake—no mixing needed!
- → Is it okay to make Magic Bars ahead?
- Yep, make them 2-3 days early and store at room temperature, or freeze for longer storage.
- → Do I need to chill Magic Bars?
- Nope, they store perfectly at room temp when packed in a tight container.