Magic Cookie Bars Recipe

Introduction

Magic Cookie Bars are a delightful, no-fuss dessert that layers rich flavors and textures in every bite. With a buttery graham cracker crust, melted chocolate, coconut, and nuts, these bars are perfect for potlucks, holidays, or any time you crave a sweet treat.

Ingredients

• ½ cup butter
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
• 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet preferred)
• 1 ⅓ cups coconut (shredded or flaked)
• 1 cup chopped pecans (or other chopped nuts)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil. If using foil, spray it with oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: Add butter to the baking pan and place it in the oven until the butter melts. If using parchment paper, melt the butter separately in a microwave-safe bowl on high for about 90 seconds.
3. Step 3: Mix the graham cracker crumbs into the melted butter until combined, then press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan using the bottom of a measuring cup or another flat surface.
4. Step 4: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the chocolate chips, coconut, and chopped nuts on top. Press down firmly with a measuring cup or spoon to compact the layers.
5. Step 5: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned. Remove from the oven and run a knife around the edges of the pan if it’s not lined. Let the bars cool completely before cutting.

Tips & Variations

• Try swapping pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Use flaked coconut for a chewier texture or shredded coconut for a finer bite.
• For an extra kick, add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract to the crust mixture.
• If you prefer, sprinkle white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter taste.

Storage

Store Magic Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one week, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, let thaw at room temperature and warm briefly in the microwave if desired.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with a certified gluten-free graham cracker or crushed gluten-free cookies.

Can I use different nuts or leave them out?

Absolutely. You can use any chopped nuts you like, such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts. Leaving out nuts altogether will still yield delicious bars, just with a different texture.

Magic Cookie Bars Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 71 reviews

Deliciously rich and easy-to-make Magic Cookie Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with layers of sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these bars bake to a golden brown finish and offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• ½ cup butter
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

Toppings

• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (1 can)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 ⅓ cups shredded or flaked coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans or other chopped nuts

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil. If using foil, lightly grease it with oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Melt Butter: Add the butter to the baking pan and place it into the preheated oven to melt. Alternatively, if using parchment paper, melt the butter in a medium bowl in the microwave on high for 90 seconds until fully melted.
3. Combine Crust: Stir the graham cracker crumbs into the melted butter, mixing well to create an even mixture. Press this mixture firmly and evenly onto the bottom of the pan using the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat surface to form the crust.
4. Layer Toppings: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the prepared crust. Then sprinkle the chocolate chips, followed by the shredded coconut, and finally the chopped pecans evenly across the top. Press down gently but firmly with a measuring cup or spoon to compact the layers slightly.
5. Bake Bars: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the edges are lightly browned and the top is set. Once done, remove from the oven and carefully run a knife around the edges of the pan if not lined to loosen the bars.
6. Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to set fully before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

• Using parchment paper makes it easier to lift the bars out for cutting and serving.
• Pressing the layers firmly helps keep the bars from crumbling.
• You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans based on preference.
• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• For chewier coconut, use shredded coconut; for a flakier texture, use flaked coconut.

Keywords: Magic Cookie Bars, dessert bars, no-bake crust, graham cracker crust, coconut, chocolate chip bars, pecan dessert, easy baking recipe