Best 7-Layer Magic Cookie Bars

7-Layer Magic Cookie Bars are truly magic when you learn that there is no mixing involved.  Seven layers of butter, graham cracker, chocolate chip, butterscotch chips, coconut and pecans make the perfect bar for the holiday season!  

Few desserts are as universally loved and simple to make as 7-Layer Magic Cookie Bars. With their perfect blend of textures and flavors, crunchy, chewy, chocolatey and coconutty, these bars are a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you are baking for a party, a potluck or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, these bars delivery every time.

For the month of December I love sharing all of my Nanny's cookie recipes and so many of our favorite cookie recipes with you, like these delicious bite size Snowball Cookies.

What Are 7-Layer Magic Cookie Bars?

Also known as Hello Dolly or Magic Bars, this dessert layers simple pantry ingredients into a gooey, decadent treat. The seven "magic" layers include a graham cracker crust, butter, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, shredded coconut and chopped pecans.

The magic comes from how effortlessly the layers bake together, creating a rick and cohesive dessert that tastes like you spent hours perfecting when in reality it only takes 15 minutes to assemble.

Ingredient List

Here is what you will need to make a classic 7-Layer Magic Cookie Bar

Butter-Unsalted butter provides a rich flavor and helps bind the graham cracker crumbs into a sturdy crust.

Graham Cracker Crumbs-Finely crushed crumbs forms the buttery and slightly sweet crust which is the perfect base for the 7-Layer dessert bar. You can buy pre-crushed crumbs or crush them in a food processor.

Sweetened Condensed Milk-This thick and creamy liquid is the glue that holds the layers together.

Semisweet Chocolate Chips-The chocolate layer adds a decadence and balance the the sweet flavors that this bar offers.

Butterscotch Chips-Adding a warm and caramel like flavor, butterscotch chips are a great addition to this sweet bar.

Sweetened Shredded Coconut-The coconut brings a chewy texture and a tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. The coconut will get slightly toasted while baking and adds a delicious nutty flavor.

Chopped Pecans-Chopped pecans provide a wonderful crunch and a touch of earthiness to balance the sweetness. If you don't love pecans, you can always add walnuts or almonds.

How To Make The Best 7-Layer Magic Cookie Bars

Preheat Oven: to 350 degrees F and prepare a 9x13 inch sheet pan with parchment paper.

Prepare the Crust: Mix the melted butter with the graham cracker crumbs until evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

Layer the Ingredients: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, shredded coconut and chopped pecans in the order.

Bake: Place the pan in the oven to bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool in the pan before slicing. For a clean cut, refrigerate for 1-2 hours before slicing into squares.

Tips for The Perfect Magic Cookie Bars

Pack the crust firmly: A solid graham cracker crust will ensure the bars will hold together well. Use the back of a measuring cup to press the crust firmly.

Experiment with toppings: Swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or butterscotch for peanut butter chips. Be creative and make these unique for your family!

Store them properly: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

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