magic bar cookies recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best magic bar cookies recipe

I’ve been making magic bar cookies for my family for years, and they’re always a hit. The best part is that they’re incredibly easy to make and require only a few ingredients. I love how the combination of graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate chips creates a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, especially when we get to press the mixture into a pan and add the toppings. It’s amazing how such a simple recipe can be so versatile – we’ve had it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert after dinner. One of the reasons I love this recipe is that it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a special event.

The magic bar cookies are also relatively healthy compared to other desserts, thanks to the use of graham cracker crumbs instead of refined flour. Plus, they’re easy to customize with different toppings or mix-ins, so you can get creative and make them your own. I’ve made them with nuts, dried fruit, or even candy pieces – the possibilities are endless!

As a busy mom, I appreciate how quickly these cookies come together and how delicious they are fresh out of the oven. My family loves them so much that they’re always asking for more – it’s not uncommon for us to go through an entire batch in just one day! In fact, I’ve lost count of how many batches I’ve made over the years.

It’s become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will be in yours too once you give it a try.

Magic Bar Cookies

4.8 from 1223 votes

These magic bar cookies feature a buttery graham cracker crust layered with chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts, all held together by a sweetened condensed milk drizzle. They bake into chewy, gooey bars that are perfect for potlucks and holiday treats.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 24Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 280 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

For the Layers

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup butterscotch chips
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and graham cracker crumbs until evenly moistened.
3Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13 inch baking pan to form an even crust.
4Sprinkle the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts evenly over the crust.
5Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire surface, ensuring it covers all the toppings to bind them together.
6Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
7Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into bars.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 280 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 120mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 27g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the cooled bars for 30 minutes before slicing. You can substitute white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for the butterscotch chips if desired.

Watch Video Of How Magic Bar Cookies Works

I’m so glad I discovered this recipe years ago – it’s been a game-changer for my family and me when it comes to satisfying our sweet tooth without breaking the bank or sacrificing too much time in the kitchen.

One thing I love about these magical bars is that they’re perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dessert after dinner or as part of a special celebration like birthdays or holidays.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Magic Bar Cookies

Q1: What is the history behind magic bar cookies?

Magic bar cookies have been around for decades, but their exact origin is unclear. Some sources claim they were created by accident in the 1950s or 60s by a baker who was experimenting with different ingredients. Others believe they were inspired by traditional Middle Eastern desserts like baklava or ma’amoul. Regardless of their true history, one thing is certain: magic bar cookies have become a beloved treat around the world.

Q2: Can I customize this recipe with different flavors or toppings?

One of the best things about magic bar cookies is that they’re incredibly versatile. You can experiment with different flavor combinations by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans, dried fruit like cranberries or cherries, or even candy pieces like M&M’s or chopped peanut butter cups.

Q3: Are magic bar cookies suitable for special diets?

Magic bar cookies are relatively healthy compared to other desserts due to their use of graham cracker crumbs instead of refined flour. However, if you’re following a gluten-free diet or have other dietary restrictions, you may need to make some adjustments to this recipe.

Q4: Can I make magic bar cookies ahead of time?

Sure! Magic bar cookies can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored at room temperature until serving time. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.

Q5: How do I store leftover magic bar cookies?

If you don’t plan on devouring all your magic bar cookies in one sitting (which let’s face it is highly unlikely!), you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep them fresh for longer periods of time, consider freezing them – simply place individual portions on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and transfer them once frozen to an airtight container or freezer bag.

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