Description

Enchanted Magic Cookie Bars are a luscious, layered dessert featuring a buttery crust, a creamy vanilla custard filling, and a rich dark chocolate glaze. Baked to perfection, these bars combine smooth cream cheese custard and a glossy chocolate topping for a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

Vanilla Custard Filling

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
2 large eggs
1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
¼ cup heavy cream

Chocolate Glaze

½ cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon light corn syrup (optional, for shine)

Instructions

Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir in melted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch pan.
Blind-bake the crust: Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes until set. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Make the vanilla custard: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then whisk in the eggs, one at a time. Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until the mixture is silky and lump-free.
Assemble and bake: Pour the custard mixture over the pre-baked crust and smooth the surface. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until the edges are set but the center still slightly wobbles. Remove from oven and cool completely, then refrigerate for 1-2 hours to set.
Prepare the chocolate glaze: Melt the dark chocolate chips and butter together in short bursts in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Stir in the light corn syrup if a shinier finish is desired.
Finish and serve: Drizzle the chocolate glaze over the chilled bars. Let the glaze set at room temperature, then cut into 12 squares and serve.

Notes

For the best texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing.
The light corn syrup in the glaze is optional but adds a beautiful shine.
Make sure not to overbake the custard; the center should remain slightly wobbly before cooling.
Refrigerate the bars to allow the custard to firm up for easier slicing.
Use a sharp knife heated under hot water and wiped dry for clean cuts.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Baking
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: enchanted magic cookie bars, cream cheese custard bars, baked dessert bars, chocolate glaze dessert, layered dessert bars