Nothing says nostalgia quite like 7 Layer Bars, also known as Magic Cookie Bars. These layered delights combine a crunchy graham cracker base with a gooey center of chocolate, coconut, and nuts, all bound together by sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or a simple weeknight treat, this recipe delivers the ideal mix of sweet, salty, crunchy, and chewy in every bite.

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With minimal prep and no mixer required, these bars are perfect for bakers of any skill level. The rich layers and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a true crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup butterscotch chips
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Pour melted butter evenly across the bottom of the pan.
Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the butter and press gently to form a solid crust.

Step 2: Layer the Goodies

Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the crust.
Add a layer of butterscotch chips.
Spread chopped walnuts or pecans on top.
Finish with shredded coconut, evenly distributed.

Step 3: Pour the Magic

Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over all the layers, covering most of the toppings.
This binds everything together and gives the bars their signature gooey texture.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and bubbling.
Allow bars to cool completely in the pan.
For cleaner slices, chill in the fridge for about 1 hour before cutting.

Pro Tips

Parchment paper: Makes removing bars easy and gives clean edges.
Press lightly: After pouring condensed milk, press gently to help layers adhere.
Avoid overbaking: Bars firm up as they cool; overbaking can make them dry.
Texture preference: Chill for firmer bars or serve at room temperature for a softer bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick prep with only 10 minutes of hands-on time
Customizable with different chips or nuts
Perfect for gifts, potlucks, or lunchbox treats
Irresistible texture: crunchy, chewy, and gooey in every bite

Substitutions & Variations

Chocolate options: Swap semi-sweet with dark, milk, or white chocolate chips
Nut alternatives: Pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version
Crust swaps: Use crushed digestive biscuits if graham crackers aren’t available
Flavor twists: Add a layer of caramel, peanut butter chips, or dried fruit for a unique variation

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-ahead: Bars can be baked ahead and stored in an airtight container.
Room temperature storage: 3–4 days
Refrigerator storage: Up to 1 week for firmer texture
Freezer storage: Up to 2 months; separate layers with parchment for easy thawing
Reheating: Warm in microwave for 10–15 seconds if desired

Serving Ideas

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert
Cut into small squares for party platters
Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for the perfect cozy treat

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: 210
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Sugar: 18g
Protein: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Magic Cookie Bars?
Yes! They freeze well for up to 2 months. Layer with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.

Can I make them nut-free?
Absolutely. Simply omit the nuts or replace with extra chocolate or sunflower seeds.

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Why are they called 7 Layer Bars?
Because of the seven distinct ingredients layered together, creating the classic “magic” effect.

How can I get clean slices?
Chill the bars in the fridge for at least an hour and use a sharp knife for cutting.

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These 7 Layer Bars truly live up to their “magic” name. With minimal effort, you can create a dessert that’s visually impressive, irresistibly tasty, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re baking for holidays, family gatherings, or a sweet weeknight treat, this recipe guarantees smiles—and second (or third) helpings!