Name: Magic Monster Cookie Bars Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup butter; 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs; 14 oz sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips; 1 cup M&Ms candies; 1⅓ cups flaked coconut; 1 cup peanuts

Dive into the delightful world of magic monster cookie bars, a treat that's bursting with a symphony of flavors and textures. Perfect for any occasion, these bars combine a deliciously buttery graham cracker crust with layers of sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, m&ms, flaked coconut, and peanuts.

Photos of Magic Monster Cookie Bars Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in every household. Make sure to pick up graham cracker crumbs for the crust, and sweetened condensed milk, which creates a rich, gooey layer. Also, ensure you have flaked coconut on hand for that extra bit of texture and flavor.

Ingredients For Magic Monster Cookie Bars

Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the graham cracker crumbs together.

Graham cracker crumbs: Forms the base crust for the bars, giving them a nice, firm foundation.

Sweetened condensed milk: Provides a creamy, sweet layer that holds the toppings together.

Semisweet chocolate chips: Adds a rich chocolatey flavor in every bite.

M&Ms candies: Brings color and a sweet crunch to the bars.

Flaked coconut: Adds a light, chewy texture and a hint of tropical flavor.

Peanuts: Contributes a nutty crunch and balances the sweetness.

One reader, Hans Beltran says:

These magic monster cookie bars are absolutely delicious! The combination of chocolate, m&ms, coconut, and peanuts creates a perfect balance of flavors. They are easy to make and a huge hit at parties. Highly recommend!

Hans Beltran

Techniques Required for Making Magic Monster Cookie Bars

Yes.

How to coat a baking pan: Use baking spray to evenly coat the bottom and sides of the pan to prevent sticking. How to combine graham cracker crumbs and butter: Melt the butter and mix it thoroughly with the graham cracker crumbs until the mixture resembles wet sand. How to press crumb mixture into a pan: Use the back of a spoon or your hands to firmly press the crumb mixture into an even layer on the bottom of the prepared pan. How to pour sweetened condensed milk evenly: Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk slowly and evenly over the crumb mixture to ensure full coverage. How to layer ingredients: Distribute the chocolate chips, m&ms, coconut, and peanuts evenly over the condensed milk layer. How to press down firmly with a fork: Use a fork to gently press down on the layered ingredients to help them adhere together. How to bake until lightly browned: Bake in the preheated oven until the top is lightly browned, indicating that the bars are cooked through. How to cool completely: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate until cold before cutting and serving.

How To Make Magic Monster Cookie Bars

The best desserts are the ones that offer the most flavors. These cookie bars are layers of peanuts, M&Ms, chocolate chips, & coconuts in one bite.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F.

1. Coat 13×9-inch baking pan with baking spray.

1. Combine graham cracker crumbs and butter.

1. Press into bottom of prepared pan.

1. Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over crumb mixture.

1. Layer evenly with chocolate chips, m&ms, coconut and nuts.

1. Press down firmly with a fork.

1. Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly browned.

1. Cool completely (preferably refrigerate until cold) before cutting and serving at room temperature.

Nutrition

- Calories: 231.03kcal

- Fat: 14.61g

- Saturated Fat: 7.63g

- Trans Fat: 0.20g

- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.33g

- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.74g

- Carbohydrates: 23.43g

- Fiber: 1.66g

- Sugar: 19.28g

- Protein: 3.96g

- Cholesterol: 17.00mg

- Sodium: 53.18mg

- Calcium: 69.63mg

- Potassium: 173.96mg

- Iron: 0.87mg

- Vitamin A: 49.44µg

- Vitamin C: 0.62mg

Technique Tip for Making Magic Monster Cookie Bars

When pressing the graham cracker crumbs and butter mixture into the pan, use the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure an even and firm crust. This helps create a solid base for the sweetened condensed milk and other layers, preventing them from becoming too crumbly when cutting the bars.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Magic Monster Cookie Bars Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting to streamline the process.

Use pre-crushed graham crackers: Save time by buying pre-crushed graham cracker crumbs instead of crushing them yourself.

Melt butter in the microwave: Quickly melt butter in the microwave instead of using a stovetop.

Layer efficiently: Arrange chocolate chips, m&ms, coconut, and peanuts in bowls for easy layering.

Cool in the fridge: Speed up the cooling process by placing the baking pan in the fridge immediately after baking.

Substitute Ingredients For Magic Monster Cookie Bars Recipe

butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine provides a similar fat content and texture, making it a suitable replacement for butter.
graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with digestive biscuit crumbs: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative to graham crackers.
sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut milk and sugar: Mix coconut milk with sugar and simmer until thickened to mimic the sweetness and consistency of sweetened condensed milk.
semisweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chunks: Dark chocolate chunks provide a similar chocolate flavor with a slightly richer taste.
m&ms candies - Substitute with chocolate-covered raisins: Chocolate-covered raisins add a similar burst of sweetness and texture.
flaked coconut - Substitute with chopped nuts: Chopped nuts provide a similar crunchy texture and can add a different flavor profile.
peanuts - Substitute with almonds: Almonds offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative to peanuts.

Best Way to Present Magic Monster Cookie Bars

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the magic monster cookie bars into elegant, bite-sized pieces to ensure a refined presentation.
Use decoration: Garnish each piece with a delicate drizzle of melted chocolate and a sprinkle of finely chopped peanuts to add visual appeal and texture.
Plate with contrast: Place the bars on a sleek, white plate to make the vibrant colors of the m&ms candies and the golden hue of the coconut pop.
Add a touch of freshness: Accompany the bars with a small dollop of whipped cream and a few fresh mint leaves for a refreshing contrast.
Create height: Stack a couple of bars slightly askew to add dimension and interest to the plate.
Incorporate a sauce: Serve with a side of raspberry coulis or caramel sauce for an added layer of flavor and sophistication.
Use elegant utensils: Present the bars with a small, polished dessert fork or spoon to enhance the dining experience.
Highlight ingredients: Place a few whole m&ms candies and peanuts around the plate to showcase the key components of the dessert.

Essential Tools for Making Magic Monster Cookie Bars Recipe

Oven: Used to bake the cookie bars at the specified temperature of 350 degrees f.
Baking pan: A 13x9-inch pan is required to hold the mixture and bake the bars evenly.
Baking spray: Used to coat the baking pan to prevent the cookie bars from sticking.
Mixing bowl: Needed to combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
Fork: Used to press down the layers firmly before baking.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients like graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chips, m&ms, coconut, and peanuts.
Measuring spoons: Useful for measuring smaller quantities, such as the butter.
Spatula: Helps in spreading the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crumb mixture.
Refrigerator: Used to cool the cookie bars completely before cutting and serving.
Knife: Needed to cut the cooled cookie bars into serving pieces.

How To Store and Freeze Magic Monster Cookie Bars

Here are the detailed instructions for storing and freezing magic monster cookie bars:

Let the cookie bars cool completely before storing. This is important to prevent condensation from forming and making the bars soggy.
Once cooled, cut the cookie bars into individual servings. This makes it easier to grab a bar or two without disturbing the rest.
To store: Place the cut cookie bars in an airtight container, separating layers with sheets of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze the cookie bars: Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen cookie bars: Remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let thaw at room temperature for about an hour, or in the refrigerator overnight. You can also reheat individual bars in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm, gooey treat.
Tip: If you plan to freeze the cookie bars, consider using a baking pan lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Once the bars are cooled and set, lift them out of the pan using the liner, then cut and wrap individually for freezing. This makes it super easy to remove just a few bars at a time without having to thaw the entire batch.

How To Reheat Leftover Magic Monster Cookie Bars

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover magic monster cookie bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Heat them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warm and the chocolate chips and m&ms are slightly melted. This method will help restore the texture and flavor of the bars, making them taste almost as good as freshly baked.
If you prefer a softer, gooier texture, you can reheat the magic monster cookie bars in the microwave. Place a single bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 15-20 seconds. If needed, heat for an additional 5-10 seconds until the desired temperature and texture are reached. Be careful not to overheat the bars, as this can cause the chocolate and candies to burn.
For a crispy exterior and a warm, melty interior, try reheating the magic monster cookie bars in a skillet or griddle. Melt a small amount of butter in the skillet over medium heat. Place the bar in the skillet and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the bottom is crispy and the interior is warm and gooey.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the magic monster cookie bars for a quick and easy method. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the bars in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the bars are warmed through and the chocolate and candies are slightly melted.

Random Fact About Magic Monster Cookie Bars

A fun fact about this magic monster cookie bars recipe is that it is a variation of the classic seven-layer bars, also known as magic bars. These bars are popular for their rich and indulgent layers of chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts, all held together by sweetened condensed milk.

Is Making Magic Monster Cookie Bars Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This magic monster cookie bars recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate chips are affordable and often available in bulk. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $10-$12. Considering the delicious outcome and the minimal effort required, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness and overall satisfaction.

Are Magic Monster Cookie Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for magic monster cookie bars is undeniably delicious, but it's far from healthy. The main ingredients - butter, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, M&Ms, coconut, and peanuts - are all high in sugar, fat, and calories. While peanuts offer some protein and healthy fats, the overall nutritional value of this treat is quite low. Consuming these cookie bars in excess can contribute to weight gain, increased risk of heart disease, and other health issues.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of it with unsweetened applesauce or mashed avocado
Use a lower-fat sweetened condensed milk or make your own using low-fat milk and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
Swap out half of the chocolate chips and M&Ms for dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots
Replace some of the coconut with rolled oats for added fiber and nutrients
Choose unsalted, raw, or dry-roasted peanuts instead of salted or honey-roasted varieties
Cut the cookie bars into smaller portions to encourage mindful eating and portion control

Editor's Thoughts on Magic Monster Cookie Bars Recipe

This recipe for magic monster cookie bars is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The combination of graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, and a variety of mix-ins like chocolate chips, m&ms, coconut, and peanuts creates a rich and satisfying treat. The layering technique ensures each bite is packed with goodness, while the baking time allows for a perfect golden finish. Refrigerating before cutting helps achieve clean, neat bars. Overall, it's a fun and indulgent dessert that's sure to please a crowd.

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

Fruit Salad: Elevate your dessert experience with a vibrant fruit salad. Imagine a medley of berries, kiwi, and mango drizzled with a hint of honey and a sprinkle of mint. This refreshing side will balance the sweetness of your magic monster cookie bars perfectly.

Cheese Platter: Complement the rich flavors of your dessert with a sophisticated cheese platter. Include a variety of cheeses like brie, cheddar, and blue cheese. Add some crackers, grapes, and fig jam for a delightful contrast.

Roasted Nuts: Add a crunchy twist to your dessert spread with a bowl of roasted nuts. Think almonds, pecans, and cashews lightly seasoned with sea salt and a touch of rosemary. These savory bites will enhance the nutty notes in your magic monster cookie bars.

Berry Compote: Create a luscious berry compote to serve alongside your dessert. Simmer a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries with a splash of lemon juice and a hint of vanilla. This tangy-sweet sauce will add a burst of flavor to each bite.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Nothing pairs better with a rich dessert than a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture and subtle vanilla flavor will complement the chocolate chips and m&ms in your magic monster cookie bars, creating a delightful contrast of hot and cold.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Magic Monster Cookie Bars

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bars: Imagine the bliss of cookie dough without the raw egg worries! These bars are a delightful fusion of chocolate chips and creamy dough, perfect for any dessert lover.

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars: A chewy, nutty treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the rich, creamy taste of peanut butter. Ideal for a quick snack or a sweet end to your meal.

S'mores Brownie Bars: Bring the campfire indoors with these decadent bars. Layers of graham crackers, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate come together to create a nostalgic treat.

Coconut Macaroon Bars: For the coconut enthusiasts, these bars are a dream come true. Sweet, chewy, and with a hint of vanilla, they make for a perfect dessert or snack.

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars: A symphony of sweet and salty, these bars feature a crunchy pretzel base, a layer of luscious caramel, and a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the flavors perfectly.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Magic Monster Cookie Bars Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a satisfying crunch, while the Parmesan cheese melts to a golden perfection. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Caprese Skewers: Caprese Skewers bring a touch of elegance to your appetizer spread. Picture cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves threaded onto skewers, drizzled with a balsamic reduction. The juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella create a harmonious balance, while the basil adds a refreshing note. These skewers are not only visually appealing but also a delightful burst of Italian flavors.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with aromatic herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. Grilling the chicken brings out a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the citrusy marinade. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a casual dinner with friends.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that can be customized to suit any taste. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and spices. Baking the peppers allows the flavors to meld together, creating a delicious and hearty meal. You can also add cheese on top for an extra layer of richness. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a family dinner or a meal prep staple.

Why trust this Magic Monster Cookie Bars Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of butter, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate chips with the delightful crunch of m&ms and peanuts. The graham cracker crumbs base adds a perfect foundation, while the flaked coconut provides a tropical twist. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and the guaranteed satisfaction it brings to every bite.

Share your thoughts on the Magic Monster Cookie Bars Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how they turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of nut instead of peanuts?

Absolutely! You can swap out peanuts for any other nut you prefer, like almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Just make sure to chop them up if they're large.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes, you can use any type of chocolate you like. Dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even butterscotch chips would work great in this recipe.

Do I have to refrigerate the bars before cutting them?

It's highly recommended to refrigerate the bars before cutting. It helps them set properly and makes cutting them into neat squares much easier.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can make these bars gluten-free by using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. All other ingredients should be naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the labels to be sure.

How long do these cookie bars stay fresh?

These cookie bars will stay fresh for about a week if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you refrigerate them, they can last up to two weeks.