7 layer bar recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best 7 layer bar recipe

I’ve been making 7 layer bars for my family for years, and they’re always a hit. My kids love helping me mix together the layers, and my husband appreciates how easy they are to make.

The best part is that they’re perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends. I love that this recipe is a classic, and it’s been passed down through generations of home cooks.

The combination of sweet and salty flavors is just right, and the texture of the coconut and chocolate is irresistible. When I make 7 layer bars, I know I’m going to have happy eaters in my household.

My kids love being able to customize their own bars with different toppings, and I appreciate how versatile this recipe is – it’s just as good served warm or at room temperature. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that gets better with time, so if you’re looking for something to make ahead of time, this is an excellent choice.

In fact, I often make a double batch so we can have leftovers throughout the week. My family and I are big fans of this recipe because it’s easy to make in large quantities and freezes well too.

7 Layer Bars

4.9 from 1741 votes

A classic dessert bar with layers of graham cracker crust, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, coconut, nuts, and sweetened condensed milk. These bars are chewy, rich, and perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 16Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust and Layers

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

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and graham cracker crumbs until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13 inch baking pan.
4Evenly sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips over the crust, followed by the butterscotch chips.
5Then scatter the shredded coconut and chopped nuts over the top, ensuring an even distribution of all ingredients.
6Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the layered ingredients, making sure to cover all areas.
7Bake for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set and bubbly.
8Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack, about 1 hour.
9Once cooled, cut into 16 bars and serve.
10Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking pan
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 150mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 28g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a less sweet version, use dark chocolate chips and unsweetened coconut. Toast the nuts beforehand for extra flavor.

Watch Video Of How 7 Layer Bars Works

When it comes to storing 7 layer bars, I always let them cool completely before cutting. Then I place them in an airtight container with wax paper between layers. They stay fresh at room temperature for a few days, but I prefer to keep them in the fridge, especially in warmer weather.

For reheating, a few seconds in the microwave softens the chips and makes them gooey again. I also love serving them chilled straight from the fridge on a hot day. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to holiday parties.

They travel well, so I often bring them to barbecues or school events. My kids even pack them in lunchboxes for a special treat. The recipe is so reliable and always gets rave reviews.

I hope you give it a try and see how easy and delicious it is. You will be glad you did.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About 7 Layer Bars

Q: What is 7 layer bar?

7 layer bars are a type of no-bake dessert that consists of seven distinct layers: graham cracker crust, chocolate chips, butterscotch bits, coconut flakes, chopped nuts, marshmallows, and powdered sugar.

Q: Can I customize the ingredients in 7 layer bars?

Yes! One of the best things about this recipe is that you can customize it to your liking by substituting different types of nuts or using different types of chocolate chips.

Q: How do I store 7 layer bars?

You can store 7 layer bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make 7 layer bars ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe makes ahead perfectly – simply assemble the layers and refrigerate until serving.

Q: Are 7 layer bars healthy?

This recipe does contain some processed ingredients like chocolate chips and butterscotch bits; however, it also has some healthier components like coconut flakes and chopped nuts.

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