What are some recipes that stick with you? What are the ones that feel like a warm hug on chilly days, or just sunshine when you need it most? What are some recipes that come with a side of childhood memories? Is there any one of them? My mom used to make these for every single bake sale, school potluck, and holiday gathering. I’m a big fan of these cookies. When I first heard swearing, they were always the first thing to disappear. Even now, the smell of them baking instantly takes me back to our kitchen, and the scent of toasted cookies. Coconut and rich chocolate filling the air. If you’ve ever tried a magic cookie bar, you know the general vibe, but I’m telling you, these 7 things are different. Layer bars take it to a whole new level. They’re ridiculously easy, surprisingly decadent, and just… perfect. I’ve tinkered with them over the years, tweaking little things here and there, and I’m so excited to do it. What’s your favorite version of the song?
What are 7 Layer Bars?
What are 7 layer bars? Think of it as the ultimate bar cookie, a layered masterpiece of sweet, chewy, and slightly crunchy. The “seven layers” refer to the distinct ingredients that get piled on top of each other, creating a complex structure. symphony of flavors in every bite. What’s your crumbly graham cracker crust, a creamy condensed milk base that binds everything? Is it a good combination of sweet chocolate chips, buttery nuts and shredded coconut? Is it like a dessert jackpot, all baked into one easy to handle bar? Is it overly complicated? What is more impressive than the effort it takes?
Why do I love this recipe?
Honestly, there are so many reasons why I keep coming back to this 7 layer bars recipe, and I just know you’re going to feel the same way. First off, the flavor is just out of this world. You get that buttery graham cracker base, the rich sweetness of the condensed milk, the melty chocolate, the satisfying crunch from the pecans, and that hint of tropical sweetness from the coconut. It’s a fantastic combination that hits all the right notes. And the texture? Oh my goodness. It’s chewy, it’s slightly gooey in the middle, and the edges get just perfectly caramelized. What I love most about this is how incredibly simple it is. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. It’s a dump-and-go kind of situation for most of the layers, which makes it a lifesaver on busy days. Plus, it’s really budget-friendly! The ingredients are pretty standard pantry staples for most bakers, and they go a long way. It’s also super versatile; I’ll tell you more about that later, but you can easily swap out nuts or add other yummy things. It’s definitely one of my go-to recipes when I need a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to be a hit. I’ve made similar cookie bars, like my classic Chocolate Chip blondies, but there’s something so satisfyingly unique about the layered approach here.
How do I make 7 Layer Bars?
Quick Overview
How do I make 7 layer bars? We start by creating a buttery graham cracker base, then we’ll layer on chocolate chips, pecans, and granulated sugar. We’re done! All held together with a magical pour of sweetened condensed milk. Is it baked until golden and bubbly, then cooled for slicing? The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. Is it really that easy to just layer ingredients in a pan and let the oven do the work? Is there any recipe that makes you feel like a rockstar without the stress?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter: What is the main battery
What is graham cracker crumbs? I usually just buy the crumbs, but if you have whole graham crackers, just blitz them in a food processor. If you have a processor, wait until they’ Make sure you have about 10-12 full graham crackers for this. If you want a buttery base, you’ll need 12 cup of unsalted butter. What is the foundation of good butter?
For the Filling:
Where the magic happens? I find semi-sweet chocolate gives the best balance, but I feel like I’m getting a little overly sweet. I used 1 cup of semisweet for this recipe. Is it safe to use milk chocolate or Dark Chocolate if it’s your jam? What is the recipe for 1 cup of chopped pecans? What are some good substitutes for pecans? For that unmistakable tropical hint, you’ll want 1 12 cups of shredded sweetened coconut. I always use sweetened, it just adds that extra layer of deliciousness. What’s the glue that holds it all together? One 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk. Is it better to get evaporated milk or condensed milk?
For the Glaze:
This is optional, but I think it really takes them over the top. Is a thin icing made with powdered sugar and milk? I’ll give you options!
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
How do I get my oven ready? Preheat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (that’s 175 degrees Celsius). While the oven is heating up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to line mine with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. What makes it so much easier to lift the bars out later, like a little handle? Make sure the parchment paper goes all the way to the edges so the crust doesn’t stick.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Set aside. Give it a good stir until all the crumbs are moistened. It should look like wet sand. This is your crust mixture and you want it to be evenly coated so it bakes up nicely.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
This step is super simple. You’ll be pouring the sweetened condensed milk over the other ingredients, so just have that can. No mixing needed here, just get your chocolate chips, pecans, and coconut ready to go!
Step 4: Combine
Now, we’re going to press that graham cracker and butter mixture firmly into the bottom of your kitchen. What is the best way to prepare Use the back of a spoon or your hands to get an even layer. How do you cut a bar?
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the graham cracker crust. If you have a large bowl, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the chocolate chips. Mix well. Lastly, sprinkle the shredded sweetened coconut evenly over the nuts and chocolate. Try to get a nice, even distribution so you get more of everything in each bite.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
What’s the fun part? Slowly and evenly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the entire pan, making sure to cover all the sides. If you want to spread the pan, tilt it slightly to help it spread if needed, but try not to disturb the layers too much. When you bake condensed milk, it will seep down and glue everything together, creating that signature signature.
Step 7: Bake
Now, pop that pan into your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end, as ovens can vary. You want that coconut and the edges of the crust to be nicely toasted, but not burnt.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
What is the hardest part of waiting for them to cool down? Once they come out of the oven, let them cool completely on a wire rack. I usually let them cool for at least an hour, or even longer. If you’re adding a glaze, now’s the time! If you have extra chocolate chips, melt them with a teaspoon of butter or coconut oil until smooth, and drizzle with more chocolate. It over the cooled bars. Or, mix powdered sugar with a tiny bit of milk and drizzle over Ice Cream. Let the glaze set before cutting.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Once everything is cooled and set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the whole slab out of the slab. Is it possible to cut a pan onto chopping board? How do you cut a square into bars? I usually get about 16-24 bars depending on how big I cut them. What are the best things to eat at room temperature?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best 7 layer bars? I love serving breakfast or brunch with coffee. What are some of the best brews to try? Is it healthy to cut fruits into bite-sized pieces and serve them alongside a salad? What are some good additions to a brunch spread? As a dessert, they’re just phenomenal. I sometimes serve them with a scoop of vanilla bean Ice Cream, and that combination is pure bliss! The warm, gooey center of the bar with the cold, creamy ice cream is just heaven. What are some of the best snacks for when you just need a little pick-me-up? I’ll often have one with a glass of cold milk in the afternoon. My family loves them as a treat after dinner, especially when we’re watching movies. Is it really that easy to grab and enjoy a sandwich without any extra fuss? I’ve served them at birthday parties, cut into small squares, and they’re always a huge hit!
How do I perfect my 7 Layer Bars?
Over the years of making these beauties, I’ve picked up a few tricks that I think really elevate them. How do I make sure they turn out perfectly every time? What are some graham cracker crumbs? If they’re too chunky, the crust won’t hold together as well. What is the secret to pressing a hot pan? When it comes to the filling, try to distribute the chocolate chips, nuts, and coconut as evenly as possible. What makes these bars so good? Don’t overbake! If you bake the condensed milk too long, it will burn the edges. If not, you’ll get a brown crust. Can they become dry and crumbly? I usually check mine around the 25-minute mark. The hardest part for me is always the cooling! I know it’s tempting to cut into them right away because they smell amazing, but letting them cool really helps. Is it crucial for them to set properly and slice cleanly? If you’re adding a glaze, make sure the bars are completely cool first, otherwise, the glaze will start to burn. I’ve made the mistake of rushing this step, and it’s not pretty! If your condensed milk is too thick to pour evenly, you can gently warm it for a few minutes. Is it safe to microwave for 10 seconds? If you don’t have pecans, almonds or walnuts work great. What are some good ways to add butterscotch chips to a brownie? My kids love it when I sprinkle sea salt on top before baking, just a little pinch enhances. All those sweet flavors. Isn’t it
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
What makes these 7 layer bars so forgiving? For the best texture, I like to store them at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have a baby, just make sure they are in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to keep them from sticking to your clothes. How do you keep fresh fruits and vegetables from drying out? If it’s really warm where you live, or if you prefer them a bit firmer, you can store them in the refrigerator. Is it safe to store in the refrigerator for up to a week? Is it true that they are a bit more solid when chilled? When storing in the fridge, I usually put them in a container or wrap them well. If you freeze them, they’ll keep their quality for about 2-3 months. How do you freeze frozen bananas? If you have a freezer-safe bag or container, put the wrapped bags in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer. To thaw, just take them out of the freezer and let them come to room temperature. If you add a glaze, it should hold up well to freezing. Honestly, though, they rarely last long enough in my house to even need proper storage!
What are the most frequently asked questions on
Final Thoughts
What are your thoughts on these 7 layer bars? They’re a little piece of happiness that’s so easy to share. The combination of textures and flavors is just divine, and the fact that they’re so straightforward. To make makes them even better. What are the best treats for bake sales, holidays, or just because you deserve something sweet and unique? What are some of the If you love chewy brownies, you might also like my no-bake energy bites. What are some of the most satisfying treats? How do you make 7 layer bars? I love hearing your feedback and seeing your creations. Happy baking, everyone!
7 Layer Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Graham cracker crumbs
- 0.75 cup Butter melted
- 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup Butterscotch chips
- 1 cup Chopped pecans
- 1.25 cups Sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 can Sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces)
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and pecans evenly over the graham cracker crust.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut over the top.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the ingredients.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
