Name: Easy Magic Cookie Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 36
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup butter; 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs; 14 oz EAGLE BRAND® Sweetened Condensed Milk; 2 cups semi sweet chocolate morsels; 1⅓ cups flaked coconut; 1 cup nuts

Need a fuss-free, delicious dessert that’s perfect for any gathering? These easy magic cookie bars are the answer. With a buttery graham cracker base and layers of sweetened condensed milk, chocolate morsels, coconut, and nuts, these bars are a delightful treat that comes together quickly and easily.

Photos of Easy Magic Cookie Bars Recipe

If you don't regularly stock graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, or flaked coconut in your pantry, you’ll need to pick them up at the supermarket. These ingredients are essential for creating the rich, layered texture that makes these cookie bars so magical.

Ingredients for Easy Magic Cookie Bars Recipe

butter: Adds a rich and creamy base to the graham cracker crust.

graham cracker crumbs: Forms the crunchy and flavorful foundation for the bars.

sweetened condensed milk: Provides a sweet and gooey layer that binds the ingredients together.

semi sweet chocolate morsels: Melts into a luscious chocolate layer that complements the sweetness.

flaked coconut: Adds a chewy texture and tropical flavor to the bars.

nuts: Offers a crunchy contrast and nutty taste to balance the sweetness.

One reader, Hedvig Almond says:

These easy magic cookie bars are a delight! The layers of chocolate, coconut, and nuts blend perfectly with the buttery graham cracker crust. Simple to make and absolutely delicious, they were a hit at my family gathering. Highly recommend for a quick and tasty treat!

Hedvig Almond

Techniques Required for Making Easy Magic Cookie Bars

How to coat a baking pan: Use a no-stick cooking spray to evenly coat the bottom and sides of the baking pan to prevent sticking. How to combine ingredients: Mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter thoroughly until the crumbs are evenly coated. How to press mixture into a pan: Use your hands or the back of a spoon to press the graham cracker and butter mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even layer. How to layer ingredients: Evenly distribute the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts over the graham cracker crust. How to press down with a fork: Use a fork to gently press down the layered ingredients to ensure they adhere together. How to bake: Place the pan in a preheated oven and bake for the specified time until the top is lightly browned. How to cool and cut bars: Allow the baked mixture to cool completely before cutting it into bars or diamonds for serving.

How To Make Easy Magic Cookie Bars

These timeless magic cookie bars have a heavenly layer of chocolate morsels and flaked coconut over condensed milk-topped crust for a luscious treat.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cupbutter,or margarine, melted
1½cupsgraham cracker crumbs
14ozEAGLE BRAND® Sweetened Condensed Milk,(1 can)
2cupssemi sweet chocolate morsels
1⅓cupsflaked coconut
1cupnuts,chopped

Instructions

Heat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat 13×9-inch baking pan with no-stick cooking spray.
Combine the graham cracker crumbs and butter. Press into bottom of prepared pan.
Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over crumb mixture. Layer evenly with chocolate chips, coconut and nuts. Press down firmly with a fork.
Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool. Cut into bars or diamonds.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 148.27kcal
Fat: 9.92g
Saturated Fat: 5.19g
Trans Fat: 0.13g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.27g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.93g
Carbohydrates: 14.89g
Fiber: 1.23g
Sugar: 11.60g
Protein: 2.20g
Cholesterol: 10.53mg
Sodium: 32.18mg
Calcium: 40.82mg
Potassium: 112.56mg
Iron: 0.62mg
Vitamin A: 29.76µg
Vitamin C: 0.40mg

Helpful Technique for Making Easy Magic Cookie Bars

To ensure an even and firm crust, melt the butter and mix it thoroughly with the graham cracker crumbs until the crumbs are fully coated. Press the mixture firmly into the pan using the bottom of a measuring cup or a flat-bottomed glass to create a compact layer. This will help the crust hold together better when cutting the bars.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Magic Cookie Bars

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out butter, graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate morsels, flaked coconut, and nuts before starting.

Use parchment paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.

Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt the butter in the microwave instead of on the stove.

Crush graham crackers in a bag: Place graham crackers in a resealable bag and crush with a rolling pin to save time.

Cool on wire rack: Place the pan on a wire rack to cool faster.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Magic Cookie Bars Recipe

butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can provide a similar texture and flavor, making it a good alternative for those avoiding dairy.
graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with digestive biscuit crumbs: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a suitable replacement.
eagle brand® sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut condensed milk: Coconut condensed milk is a dairy-free alternative that offers a similar sweetness and consistency.
semi sweet chocolate morsels - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips provide a richer flavor and can be a healthier option with less sugar.
flaked coconut - Substitute with chopped nuts: Chopped nuts can add a similar texture and crunch, though the flavor will be different.
nuts - Substitute with seeds: Seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds can provide a similar crunch and nutritional benefits for those with nut allergies.

Presentation Ideas for Magic Cookie Bars

Use a high-quality plate: Choose a sleek, white porcelain plate to make the cookie bars stand out visually.
Cut into uniform shapes: Slice the cookie bars into even, bite-sized squares or diamonds to ensure a professional and polished look.
Add a drizzle of sauce: Lightly drizzle dark chocolate ganache or caramel sauce over the top of the bars for an elegant touch.
Garnish with fresh elements: Place a small sprig of mint or a few fresh berries on the side of each bar to add color and freshness.
Use a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the cookie bars with powdered sugar just before serving to add a touch of sophistication.
Serve with a side of whipped cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the plate, perhaps with a hint of vanilla or cinnamon for added flavor.
Incorporate texture: Sprinkle a few toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts around the plate to enhance the texture and visual appeal.
Create height: Stack a couple of cookie bars slightly off-center to create a sense of height and dimension on the plate.
Use edible gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, add a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of each bar.
Serve with a complementary beverage: Pair the cookie bars with a small glass of espresso or a shot of dessert wine to complete the dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Magic Cookie Bars

Oven: Used to bake the cookie bars at the specified temperature of 350 degrees f.
13x9-inch baking pan: The pan where the cookie bars will be assembled and baked.
No-stick cooking spray: To coat the baking pan and prevent the cookie bars from sticking.
Mixing bowl: For combining the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
Measuring cups: To measure out the ingredients accurately, such as the graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate morsels, coconut, and nuts.
Measuring spoons: To measure smaller quantities of ingredients if needed.
Fork: To press down the layered ingredients firmly.
Knife: To cut the cooled cookie bars into desired shapes.
Spatula: To help spread the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crumb mixture.
Cooling rack: To allow the cookie bars to cool evenly after baking.

Storing and Freezing Magic Cookie Bars

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for easy magic cookie bars:

Allow the cookie bars to cool completely before storing or freezing. This typically takes about 2 hours at room temperature.
To store:
- Place the cooled cookie bars in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- If stacking the bars, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
- Store the container or bag at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For optimal freshness, you can also store the cookie bars in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To freeze:
- Wrap each cooled cookie bar individually in plastic wrap, making sure to cover it tightly.
- Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze the cookie bars for up to 3 months.
- To thaw, remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they reach your desired level of chewiness.
Pro tip: If you want to enjoy a warm, gooey cookie bar, you can reheat a thawed or room temperature bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until it reaches your desired level of warmth and softness.

How To Reheat Leftover Magic Cookie Bars

To reheat leftover magic cookie bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the chocolate chips are melted and the bars are heated through. This method will help restore the gooey texture of the sweetened condensed milk and melt the chocolate, making the bars taste almost as good as freshly baked.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place a single serving of the magic cookie bar on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until the chocolate is melted and the bar is warm. Be careful not to overheat, as the graham cracker crust may become soggy.
For a crispy crust, you can reheat the bars in a skillet. Place a single serving in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the chocolate is melted and the bar is heated through. The bottom of the crust will become crispy, while the toppings remain gooey and delicious.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your magic cookie bars. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the chocolate is melted and the bars are warm. This method will result in a crispy crust and melted toppings.
For a more indulgent treat, reheat your magic cookie bar in the oven or microwave, then serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of warm, gooey cookie bar and cool, creamy ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Interesting Fact About Magic Cookie Bars

A random fact about this recipe is that magic cookie bars are also known as seven-layer bars because they often include seven layers of ingredients: graham cracker crumbs, butter, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, coconut, nuts, and sometimes an additional topping like butterscotch chips.

Is Making Magic Cookie Bars at Home Cost-Effective?

This easy magic cookie bars recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, and semi-sweet chocolate morsels are affordable and often available in bulk. The flaked coconut and nuts might add a bit to the cost, but they are not prohibitively expensive. Overall, the recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12 USD.

Are Magic Cookie Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?

The easy magic cookie bars recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in saturated fat due to the butter, sweetened condensed milk, and coconut. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
The recipe is also high in sugar, with the sweetened condensed milk and chocolate morsels contributing significant amounts. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health problems.
The recipe lacks any significant sources of fiber, vitamins, or minerals, as it primarily consists of processed ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of it with a healthier alternative, such as coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce.
Use a lower-fat sweetened condensed milk or replace some of it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Swap out some of the chocolate morsels for dark chocolate, which contains more antioxidants and less sugar.
Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients, such as rolled oats, chia seeds, or chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries.
Reduce the overall portion size of the bars to help control calorie intake.

Editor's Opinion on This Magic Cookie Bar Recipe

This easy magic cookie bars recipe is a delightful treat that combines rich, sweetened condensed milk with layers of semi-sweet chocolate, coconut, and nuts. The graham cracker crust provides a buttery, crunchy base that complements the chewy and nutty topping. It's a straightforward recipe that yields a deliciously indulgent dessert, perfect for any occasion. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, and the simplicity of the preparation ensures it's accessible for bakers of all skill levels. A truly magical treat that lives up to its name.

Enhance Your Easy Magic Cookie Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the crispy, caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts paired with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts contrasts beautifully with the sweet richness of the magic cookie bars, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Spicy Mango Salsa: A vibrant mango salsa with a kick of jalapeño and a hint of lime zest can add a refreshing and zesty counterpoint to the sweetness of the cookie bars. The juicy mango chunks and the heat from the peppers create a dynamic flavor profile that keeps your taste buds intrigued.

Creamy Avocado Salad: A lush avocado salad with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette offers a creamy, tangy contrast to the rich, sweet bars. The avocado's buttery texture complements the crunch of the nuts and the chewiness of the coconut in the bars.

Herb-Infused Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa infused with fresh herbs like parsley and mint, with a touch of lemon zest, provides a light and refreshing side. The earthy grains and aromatic herbs offer a delightful contrast to the decadent cookie bars.

Berry Compote: A luscious berry compote made from a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries simmered with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon can be the perfect fruity complement. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the cookie bars, creating a harmonious dessert experience.

Similar Recipes to Magic Cookie Bars

Chocolate Chip Blondies: Indulge in these chewy, buttery blondies packed with semi-sweet chocolate chips and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for a quick dessert fix!

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars: Combine the nutty goodness of peanut butter with wholesome oats for a delightful, chewy treat. These bars are perfect for a snack or dessert.

S'mores Brownies: Bring the campfire to your kitchen with these decadent brownies layered with graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate. A gooey, irresistible treat!

Lemon Coconut Squares: Brighten your day with these zesty lemon squares topped with sweet flaked coconut. A refreshing and tangy dessert that's easy to make.

Raspberry Almond Bars: Enjoy the perfect balance of tart raspberries and crunchy almonds in these delightful bars. A sophisticated dessert that's sure to impress.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Magic Cookie Bars

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are then baked to perfection, creating a warm and creamy bite-sized treat. The herb-infused filling pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making this appetizer a crowd-pleaser. Serve these stuffed mushrooms hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette brushed with olive oil. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the fresh, tangy topping creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. This simple yet elegant appetizer is perfect for any gathering, offering a taste of Italy in every bite.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Chicken Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish that combines tender chicken breast with a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. The sauce, made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, coats the fettuccine pasta perfectly. For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating garlic and a hint of nutmeg. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a delightful finish. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad to complete the meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Beef Stroganoff is a comforting and hearty dish that features tender strips of beef cooked in a savory mushroom and onion sauce. The sauce, enriched with sour cream and beef broth, creates a luscious and creamy texture. Serve this over a bed of egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. Enhance the flavors with a touch of Dijon mustard and a splash of white wine. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside steamed green beans or a simple side salad.

Why trust this Easy Magic Cookie Bars Recipe:

This recipe for magic cookie bars is a tried-and-true classic that has been loved for generations. The combination of graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate morsels, flaked coconut, and nuts creates a delightful treat that's both chewy and crunchy. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward instructions make it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Trust this recipe to deliver a delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert every time.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Easy Magic Cookie Bars Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section. Let's discuss any variations or tips you may have!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! You can swap out the nuts for whatever you prefer or have on hand. Pecans, walnuts, or even almonds work great in this recipe.

Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make these ahead of time. They store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or you can freeze them for longer storage.

What if I don't have graham cracker crumbs?

No worries! You can crush up any type of plain cookie or biscuit you have on hand. Digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers are good alternatives.

Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of flaked coconut?

Sure thing! Sweetened shredded coconut will work just fine. It might make the bars a bit sweeter, but they'll still be delicious.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

You'll know the bars are done when they're lightly browned around the edges and the center is set. If you're unsure, you can always insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean.