Magic Cookie Bars are a classic American dessert layered with rich, gooey, and crunchy textures. Originating from the mid-20th century when Eagle Brand condensed milk recipes gained popularity, this sweet treat became a staple for potlucks, bake sales, and holiday gatherings. With a graham cracker crust and toppings like chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts, it's beloved for its simplicity and irresistible taste. Often called “Hello Dolly Bars,” these cookies need no mixing, just layer and bake!
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter ( or margarine, melted)
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup walnuts (coarsely chopped)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels (or butterscotch morsels)
- 1⅓ cups flaked coconut
- 1⅓ cups sweetened condensed milk (Eagle Brand )
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Pour melted butter into the bottom of a 13x9x2-inch baking pan
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs evenly over butter and press lightly to form crust
Step 2: Add Toppings
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts evenly over crust
- Add chocolate and/or butterscotch morsels
- Top with flaked coconut
Step 3: Pour and Bake
- Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire mixture
- Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly browned on top
Step 4: Cool and Serve
- Cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes
- Cut into bars and serve
Tips
- Substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a salted caramel twist
- Use white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for a different flavor
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers
- Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal
Nutrition
Calories: 201kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 3gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 6mgSodium: 95mgPotassium: 164mgFiber: 2gSugar: 16gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 73mgIron: 1mg
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