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Magic Cookie Bars Recipe

Magic Cookie Bars Recipe


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4.5 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 47 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Classic magic cookie bars combine sweet layers of graham cracker, condensed milk, chocolate chips, and coconut for an irresistible dessert. Chocolate and coconut lovers will savor this simple no-bake treat that delivers rich, creamy indulgence in every bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients:

  • 12 full graham cracker sheets (about 1 1/2 cups when crushed)
  • 6 tablespoons (85 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Chips and Nuts:

  • 1 cup (170 grams / 6 1/2 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup (170 grams / 6 1/2 ounces) butterscotch chips
  • 1 cup (100 grams / 4 ounces) pecans, coarsely chopped

Finishing Layer:

  • 1 can (14 ounces / 397 grams) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup (80 grams) shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350F and position a rack in the middle. Create a parchment paper sling in a 9×13-inch baking pan, ensuring overhang on all sides for easy removal.
  2. Melt butter in a large bowl. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs, mix with salt, and combine thoroughly with melted butter until evenly coated and moistened.
  3. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the prepared pan using a flat-bottomed measuring cup, creating an even, compact base.
  4. Distribute chocolate chips and butterscotch chips uniformly across the crust, covering the entire surface.
  5. Sprinkle shredded coconut over the chips, followed by an even layer of chopped pecans.
  6. Slowly pour sweetened condensed milk over the entire surface, allowing it to spread naturally and seep between the layers.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-27 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the top develops a light caramel color.
  8. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack for 1-2 hours, allowing the bars to set and firm up.
  9. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment sling, transfer to a cutting board, and slice into 20 uniform pieces.

Notes

  • Customize the Crust Swap graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Enhance Texture Toast coconut and nuts before adding to improve their crunchiness and release deeper, richer flavors that complement the sweet condensed milk.
  • Control Sweetness Reduce sweetened condensed milk quantity if you prefer less intense sweetness, or use a low-sugar version for a lighter dessert experience.
  • Experiment with Mix-ins Replace chocolate or butterscotch chips with white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even dried fruit like cranberries for unique flavor combinations.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 27 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg