With this mouthwatering recipe, 7 Layer Bars (also know as magic bars or Hello Dolly bars) will let you indulge in layers of sweetness and nostalgia. These classic treats are a beloved dessert that effortlessly combines a symphony of flavors and textures into every delicious bite.

Vintage 7 Layer Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for more sweet treats, The BEST Lemon Bars and Homemade Lemon Ice will make your taste buds happy.

These delicious treats evoke cherished memories of family gatherings and bake sales. The layers of graham cracker crumbs, butter, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and sweetened condensed milk combine to create a symphony of flavors that transport us back to simpler times.

The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to make. I grew up eating 7 Layer Bars, and they were a sweet treat I couldn’t wait to eat. Even now, when I see them available in a coffee shop or a bakery, I will never pass them up.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the simple steps to create these irresistible bars that are sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

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Ingredients to Gather

• Graham Crackers – with their slightly sweet and nutty flavor, are the perfect foundation for desserts and snacks.
• Salted Butter – rich and creamy with a hint of salt, imparts a savory depth of flavor to the graham cracker crust.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – sugar-sweetened milk adds a luscious creaminess and sweetness to confectionary creations.
• Butterscotch-Flavored Chips – with their rich buttery caramel notes, add a delightful burst of sweet and indulgent flavor.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – their balanced blend of cocoa and sweetness adds a layer of chocolatey goodness to every bite.
• Flaked Coconut – its delicate and tropical essence and satisfying texture lends a delightful touch of exotic sweetness to the 7 layer bars.
• Pecans – with their buttery richness and earthy undertones, contribute a delicious nutty crunch and subtle sweetness.

Simple Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup salted butter, melted

1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 oz)

1 cup butterscotch-flavored chips

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 1/2 cup flaked coconut

1 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Spray a 13″ x 9″ baking pan with non-stick cooking spray or rub with butter. You could also use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

3. Mix graham cracker crumbs and butter. Blend well. Press the crumb mixture firmly on the bottom of the prepared pan with the back of a spoon or measuring cup.

4. Add the rest of the ingredients, layering evenly. Go over the mixture with a fork and press down firmly. Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the mixture.

5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bars are lightly browned. While still warm, use a knife to loosen the bars from the sides of the pan. Cool the bars. Cut into bars or diamond shapes.

Tips for Making Magic Bars

• Cool Off Bars – Wait until the bars are cooled before cutting. Cooling ensures they stay together.
• Versatility – 7 layer bars are quite versatile. You can add or substitute ingredients like white chocolate chips, caramel chips, dried fruit, or even sprinkles to create a unique flavor combination that suits your taste.
• Use Parchment Paper for Easy Removal – Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhand on the sides. The parchment paper makes it easier to lift the bars out for clean slicing.
• Can You Substitute Sweetened Condensed Milk? Sweetened condensed milk is a key ingredient, providing the creamy, sweet layer that holds the other ingredients together. Using other milks will not yield the same results.
• Press Crust Firmly – The graham cracker crust is the foundation of the bars. Press it firmly into the pan using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure it holds together after baking.
• Pour Sweetened Condensed Milk Evenly – Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the top in a slow, even stream. Evenly distributing it helps it soak through the layers and bind everything together. Avoid spreading it with a spoon, as that can disrupt the layers.
• Don’t Overbake – Bake until the edges are golden brown, about 25-30 minutes. Overbaking can make the bars too hard once they cool.
• Let Them Cool Completely – Resist the temptation to cut them right away! Let the bars cool in the pan completely before slicing. Chilling them in the fridge for an hour can make slicing even cleaner.
• Use a Sharp Knife for Cutting – For neat squares or diamonds, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. If the bars are sticky, lightly grease the knife or dip it in warm water before slicing.

Storage Tips

Providing proper storage is key to keeping your 7-layer bars fresh and delicious. Here’s how to store them for both short-term snacking and long-term enjoyment:

1) Store at Room Temperature (Short-Term)

• If you plan to eat them within 3 to 4 days, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat, as the chocolate and sweetened condensed milk can become too soft.
• Place wax paper or parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

2) Refrigerate for Longer Freshness

• Keep the bars in the fridge for longer storage (up to 1 week).
• Again, use an airtight container with parchment or wax paper between layers.
• Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating, as refrigeration can make the bars extra firm.

3) Freeze for Long-Term Storage

• 7-layer bars freeze beautifully for up to 3 months!
• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
• Place wrapped bars in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
• To thaw, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying them.

We’ve reached the end of 7 Layer Bars. I hope you enjoyed it!

Let me know in the comments below if you tried the recipe and what you thought.

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