Seven Layer Dream Bars
Recipe Introduction
Ever wondered about the magic of a simple treat? These seven layer cookies are my go-to. Honestly, they are so easy.
Plus, the flavor is just divine. They are sweet, nutty, and totally addictive!
Quick Hook
Got a sweet tooth? You will go crazy for these! Our seven layer bars are simple, delicious, and totally perfect for any occasion.
Get ready for a symphony of flavor with every bite!
Brief Overview
The origin of these magic cookie bars isn't crystal clear. But, they're a classic American treat often made for holidays.
This recipe is super easy and takes about 45 minutes total. It yields 24 bars. Perfect for sharing... or not!
Main Benefits
One of the best parts about these bars is the walnuts. They add a good dose of healthy fats. These are the perfect dessert for potlucks, bake sales, or just a cosy night in.
What makes this seven layer cookie recipe special is how simple it is. Anyone can whip these up!
Time to Gather the Goods for your easy dessert recipes . My Great Aunt Maggie first introduced me to these bad boys! Christmas wasn't Christmas without Maggie's coconut magic bars !
These truly are a decadent treat but are surprisingly easy, using ingredients like sweetened condensed milk desserts and graham cracker dessert , even I can't mess them up!
Here's what you need to make butterscotch chip cookies , walnut bars or Pecan, if you like!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Party Started!
So, you're ready to bake some Seven Layer Cookies ? Awesome! These magic cookie bars are super simple, I promise.
They're a great easy dessert recipes to impress folks, especially around holiday baking . Think of it as adult friendly comfort food.
Main Ingredients: The Dream Team
- Graham Cracker Crust: 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs. About 12 crackers. You want them finely crushed.
- Melted Butter: ½ cup (1 stick, 113g) unsalted butter. Good quality butter makes all the difference.
- Chocolate Chips: 1 cup (170g) semi sweet chocolate chips. Go wild with your favorite brand!
- Butterscotch Chips: 1 cup (170g) butterscotch chips. These are key for that caramel-y flavour.
- Sweetened Coconut: 1 ⅓ cups (120g) sweetened shredded coconut. This adds a nice chew.
- Chopped Walnuts: 1 cup (100g) chopped walnuts (or pecans, if you prefer). Toast them lightly for a deeper flavor.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 1 (14 ounce/397g) can sweetened condensed milk. NOT evaporated milk. Seriously. I’ve made that mistake before disaster!
Seasoning Notes: Flavor Boosters
For these coconut magic bars , we’re not talking salt and pepper here. The stars are really the butterscotch and chocolate chips.
They bring the main flavors. A little sprinkle of sea salt on top, after baking, can really elevate these. It cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
If you're feeling adventurous, a dash of cinnamon in the graham cracker crust adds a lovely warmth. Also, vanilla extract is a great addition, but not necessary.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You really don’t need fancy gear for this seven layer cookie recipe .
- 9x13 inch Baking Pan: This is essential .
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Gotta get those measurements right.
- Mixing Bowl: For the graham cracker crust.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For mixing and spreading.
- Parchment Paper: Optional, but makes clean-up a breeze .
Honestly, you probably have most of this stuff already. If you don’t have parchment paper, no worries. Just grease the pan well.
We are ready to turn these ingredients into incredible walnut bars !
Alright, let's get cracking on these seven layer cookies , shall we? They're a classic for a reason easy to make, and absolutely addictive.
They're like the cookie version of a greatest hits album, and everyone loves it.
Seven Layer Dream Bars: Magic in Every Bite
These seven layer bars are a simple yet irresistible treat. Honestly, they're ridiculously easy. We're talking layers of graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, coconut, walnuts, and sweetened condensed milk.
All baking together into a gooey, decadent slice of heaven. You know? A real slice of heaven. They're a nostalgic favourite that's surprisingly easy to make.
Prep Steps: Let's Get Organised!
Essential Mise en Place . Get everything out first. Crush those graham crackers. Melt the butter. Roughly chop those walnuts if need be. It saves time later.
Time Saving Tips. Honestly, I use pre-crushed graham cracker crumbs sometimes. Don't tell anyone. It's a shortcut, but hey, time is money, right? Plus pre-measure your ingredients!
Safety Reminder. Melting butter can be tricky. Be careful not to burn yourself, yeah? I've done that one too many times. Oh my gosh!
step-by-step: Baking the Magic
- Oven and Pan Time: Preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. Line with parchment paper with overhang because is easy to remove your magic cookie bars later on.
- Crumbly Base: Combine 1 1/2 cups of crushed graham cracker crumbs and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix until evenly moistened.
- Press it In: Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Chocolate Butterscotch Bliss: Sprinkle 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of butterscotch chips evenly over the crust.
- Nutty Coconutty Fun: Sprinkle 1 1/3 cups of shredded coconut and 1 cup of chopped walnuts (or pecans).
- Sweetened Condensed Milk Magic: Pour 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk evenly over all the layers. No evaporated milk!
- Bake: Bake for 25- 30 minutes . The top should be golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Cut: Cool completely before cutting. This is key . If not will be hard and messy!
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Baking Game
Toast the nuts. Toasting your nuts can make the flavour richer! I always forget to do this, honestly. But if you're feeling fancy...do it.
Don't overbake! Overbaking will give you a dry, brittle crust. No one wants that.
make-ahead option. These actually taste better the next day. So, feel free to bake them a day ahead. They are great holiday baking !
Alright, there you have it: seven layer cookie recipe , also known as coconut magic bars . Seriously, give these walnut bars a go.
They're perfect with a cuppa and a chat. Enjoy! If you want more easy dessert recipes and sweetened condensed milk desserts just follow me for more.
Recipe Notes For Amazing Seven Layer Cookies
Alright, so you're about to whip up these seven layer cookies (or as some folks call them, magic cookie bars ).
Ace! Here are some extra bits and bobs to make sure they turn out perfectly . I've made these so many times and I have learned that a little prep goes a long way!
Serving Suggestions: Fancy Pants Time!
Right, you've baked your seven layer bars , now what? For a bit of poshness, cut them into neat squares.
A dusting of icing sugar looks proper nice. Serve them on a fancy plate. Add a dollop of cream. Ice cream works too.
They are great with a cuppa! Or even an afternoon tea with the girls.
Storage Tips: Keep 'em Fresh!
Honestly, these seven layer cookies recipe never last long in my house. But if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container.
Keep them in the fridge and they will last for up to 4 days. You can freeze them too. Wrap them individually.
They'll be good for up to 2 months. To reheat, just let them thaw. No need for the microwave!
Variations: Get Creative With Easy Dessert Recipes!
Fancy a change? Why not try dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate? If nuts aren't your thing, leave them out.
These are also referred to as coconut magic bars or you could use walnut bars . Sunflower seeds are a good sub.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers. Boom. The base can be graham cracker or any cookie!
Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit of Info
Okay, so these are sweetened condensed milk desserts . They're not exactly a health food. But hey, a little treat never hurt anyone! They do have some protein from the nuts.
Calories? Let's just say they're delicious! Think of these around holiday baking .
So there you have it. All the tips and tricks you need to make the best seven layer cookies (aka magic cookie bars ).
Now get baking! You got this! You will have a graham cracker dessert or some tasty butterscotch chip cookies !
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute ingredients in seven layer cookies, like the nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Seven layer cookies are very forgiving. You can easily swap out the walnuts or pecans for other nuts like almonds or macadamia, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Feel free to use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, peanut butter or white chocolate chips whatever tickles your fancy!
Think of it like choosing your favourite fillings for a pick 'n' mix, make it your own.
My seven layer cookies are too gooey. What did I do wrong?
A gooey texture is often due to not baking them long enough, or not letting them cool completely. Make sure the top is golden brown and bubbly before removing them from the oven. More importantly, patience, young Padawan! Resist the urge to cut into them while they're still warm as they need to fully set as they cool.
Letting them cool completely (even in the fridge) will result in cleaner cuts and a firmer texture.
How do I store seven layer cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your seven layer cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. You can also store them in the refrigerator for up to a week just bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture. If you're thinking long term, they freeze well too!
Wrap them individually or in small batches and freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I make these seven layer cookies ahead of time for a party?
You sure can! That's part of their charm, really. Seven layer cookies are great make-ahead treats. You can bake them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container. Or, prepare them fully and freeze them for a later date (see storage tips above). Just like a good cup of tea, they're ready when you are!
Are there any nutritional considerations I should be aware of when making seven layer cookies?
Seven layer cookies are a decadent treat, so moderation is key! They are high in sugar, fat, and calories, mainly due to the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter. To lighten them up slightly, consider using a reduced fat sweetened condensed milk or adding more nuts and less chocolate.
But hey, sometimes you just need a little indulgence, right?
Seven Layer Dream Bars
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 210 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
