This Grandma-Approved Recipe Puts the Magic in Magic Cookie Bars

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Magic Cookie Bars

Grandma-Approved Magic Cookie Bars That Will Steal the Show This Holiday Season

You know you’re in for a treat when a dessert has magic in its name. Magic Cookie Bars have been a nostalgic favorite for generations, thanks to their irresistible layers of flavor and simplicity. Whether you call them Hello Dolly Bars or Seven-Layer Bars, this retro dessert has been making dessert tables sparkle since the mid-1960s.

Magic Cookie Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. First introduced in the 1960s through popular magazines, these gooey dessert bars earned their name by magically transforming a few simple ingredients into decadent, layered perfection.

The classic recipe starts with a buttery graham cracker crust and builds layers of nuts, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and sweetened condensed milk. The result? A dessert that’s chewy, crunchy, sweet, and completely irresistible.

While their name may vary, the joy they bring is universal. These bars are versatile, easy to customize, and perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holidays.

One of the best things about Magic Cookie Bars is their simplicity. No fancy equipment or mixing bowls are needed! Everything is prepared directly in a 9×13-inch baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) of melted butter or margarine
  • 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or your favorite)
  • 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup of shredded sweetened coconut
  • 1 (14-ounce) can of sweetened condensed milk

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prep the Base: Pour the melted butter into your baking dish and evenly sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs over it. For a firmer crust, mix the butter and crumbs together and press them into the bottom of the dish.
  2. Add the Layers: Evenly layer the chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and shredded coconut over the crust.
  3. Drizzle the Magic: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top, ensuring every corner is covered.
  4. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
  5. Cool: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for 15–20 minutes to set. For the best results, let them rest longer or even freeze them before slicing.

One of the reasons these bars have stood the test of time is their versatility. Here are a few creative twists to make your Magic Cookie Bars even more exciting:

  • Butterscotch Bliss: Swap half the chocolate chips for butterscotch chips for a sweet, caramel-like flavor.
  • Salty-Sweet Delight: Add a sprinkle of crushed pretzels to the top layer for a satisfying crunch.
  • Mint Chocolate Wonderland: Use dark chocolate chips and sprinkle in crushed peppermint candies for a festive holiday touch.

What People Are Saying

Magic Cookie Bars have earned rave reviews from bakers everywhere. One fan shared, “I made them for friends, and they couldn’t stop asking for the recipe!” Another suggested eating them frozen: “They’re even better when chilled—perfectly chewy and refreshing.”

Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or preparing treats for a cookie exchange, Magic Cookie Bars are guaranteed to impress. Their rich layers and endless customization options make them a dessert you’ll come back to year after year.

So, channel your inner grandma this holiday season and whip up a batch of these delightful bars. Just one bite, and you’ll understand why they’ve been a classic for decades.

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