Classic Magic Bars Recipe

Introduction

Classic Magic Bars are a delightful layered treat featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, gooey sweetened condensed milk, and a generous topping of chocolate, coconut, and nuts. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing anytime you crave a rich, sweet snack.

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). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and optional sugar. Press this mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the crust layer.
4. Step 4: Add an even layer of shredded sweetened coconut on top of the chocolate chips.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans evenly over the coconut.
6. Step 6: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over all layers, ensuring it coats everything thoroughly.
7. Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the coconut topping is lightly toasted. The center should look set but still slightly jiggly.
8. Step 8: Once out of the oven, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. For best results, refrigerate for 1-2 hours until fully chilled and firm.
9. Step 9: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the slab out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and cut into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between slices for neat edges.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free version, simply leave out the walnuts or pecans and add extra coconut or chocolate chips instead.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor or white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier taste.
• Press the crust mixture firmly to help the bars hold together better after baking.

Storage

Store Magic Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat individual pieces briefly in the microwave if you prefer them warm, but they are best enjoyed chilled to keep their firm texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts or leave them out?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds, or omit nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free treat. The texture and flavor will still be delicious.

Why do the bars need to cool and chill before cutting?

Allowing the bars to cool and chill lets the sweetened condensed milk fully set and bind all the layers together. Cutting too soon can cause the bars to crumble and fall apart.

Classic Magic Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 100 reviews

• Author: Zoe
• Total Time: 3 hours (including cooling time)
• Yield: 24 bars 1x

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Description

Classic Magic Bars are a delicious layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with chocolate chips, shredded sweetened coconut, chopped walnuts, and a generous layer of sweetened condensed milk that binds everything together when baked to perfection. This easy-to-make bar dessert offers a perfect combination of crunchy, gooey, and sweet flavors that are beloved for any occasion.

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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, for crust)

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 on the sides to enable easy lifting of the finished bars.
2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and optional granulated sugar together until combined. Press this mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a solid crust base.
3. Add the toppings: Evenly sprinkle the chocolate chips over the crust layer, followed by an even layer of shredded coconut, and then the chopped walnuts on top.
4. Pour the binder: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over all the layered toppings. This acts as the magic binder that holds the bars together once baked.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and the coconut is lightly toasted. The center should be set but may still appear slightly jiggly.
6. Cool thoroughly: Remove from the oven and allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. For best results, refrigerate for 1-2 hours until fully chilled and firm to ensure clean cutting and no crumbles.
7. Cut and serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and place on a cutting board. Cut into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat slices.

Notes

• Extended cooling in the pan is essential for the sweetened condensed milk to fully set, producing clean, intact slices that hold together well.
• If desired, substitute walnuts with pecans for a different nut flavor.
• The granulated sugar in the crust is optional; omitting it will make the bars slightly less sweet.
• Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts to ensure clean slices.

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

Keywords: Magic Bars, Magic Cookie Bars, Dessert Bars, Graham Cracker Crust, Coconut, Walnuts, Sweetened Condensed Milk, Easy Dessert