Classic Magic Bars Recipe

Introduction

Classic Magic Bars are a nostalgic treat combining a buttery graham cracker crust, gooey sweetened condensed milk, and layers of chocolate, coconut, and nuts. These bars are simple to make but deliver a rich and irresistible flavor perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, for crust)
• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and optional sugar until combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the crust, followed by the shredded coconut and then the chopped walnuts.
4. Step 4: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the layers, making sure it coats everything well. This is the key binder for the bars.
5. Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the coconut is lightly toasted. The center should be set but may still jiggle slightly.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. For best results, refrigerate for 1-2 hours until thoroughly chilled and firm.
7. Step 7: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat slices.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, substitute the walnuts with more coconut or add dried fruit like cherries or cranberries.
• Use pecans instead of walnuts for a slightly sweeter, buttery flavor.
• Press the crust mixture firmly to avoid crumbliness after baking.
• Extended cooling time is essential to allow the sweetened condensed milk to set properly, preventing the bars from falling apart.

Storage

Store the Magic Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To enjoy, bring them to room temperature or warm slightly before serving. These bars also freeze well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Magic Bars without nuts?

Yes, you can omit the nuts or replace them with extra coconut, dried fruit, or seeds if you prefer a nut-free version.

Why do my Magic Bars crumble when I cut them?

This usually happens if the bars haven’t cooled and chilled long enough. Make sure to let them cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the sweetened condensed milk to set and bind the ingredients firmly.

Classic Magic Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 67 reviews

• Author: Zoe
• Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including cooling)
• Yield: 16 bars (cut into 4x4 grid) 1x

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Description

Classic Magic Bars are a delightful layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with rich chocolate chips, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts, and sweetened condensed milk that bakes into a perfect chewy, gooey treat. This no-fuss bar recipe combines crunchy and creamy textures, making it an irresistible sweet snack or dessert.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional)

Toppings

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)

Binder

• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

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Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to easily lift the bars after baking.
2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and optional sugar. Press this mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a solid crust base.
3. Add chocolate chips: Evenly sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the crust.
4. Layer coconut: Sprinkle the shredded sweetened coconut evenly on top of the chocolate chips.
5. Add nuts: Top the coconut layer with the chopped walnuts or pecans.
6. Pour condensed milk: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over all the layers, ensuring it coats everything to act as the binder.
7. Bake: Bake the assembled bars for 25-30 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and the coconut is lightly toasted. The center will be set but slightly jiggly.
8. Cool completely: Remove from oven and allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours or refrigerate for 1-2 hours until fully chilled and firm. This step is essential for the bars to set properly and hold together.
9. Cut and serve: Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the pan onto a cutting board. Cut into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for clean slices.

Notes

• Extended cooling time is crucial to ensure the sweetened condensed milk fully sets, preventing crumbly bars.
• For best results, use parchment paper with overhang to lift bars easily without breaking.
• Walnuts can be substituted with pecans based on preference.
• Optional sugar in the crust adds extra sweetness but can be omitted if desired.
• Store bars in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 5 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Magic Bars, Layered Dessert Bars, Graham Cracker Bars, Chocolate Coconut Bars, Sweetened Condensed Milk Bars, Easy Dessert Recipe, No-fuss Bars