Why are these called 7 layer bars?

These bars are called \"seven layer\" as seven different flavors make up the bars. (The butter is counted as a layer - originally, melted butter was poured over crushed graham crackers, but most cooks have switched to mixing the butter with the graham crackers and pressing it into the pan because it gives a better, less crumbly result.)

When were 7 layer bars created?

These Magic Cookie Bars go by many names: Magic Cookie Bars, 7 Layer Bars, 7 Layer Magic Cookie Bars, Hello Dollies, and Coconut Dream Bars, to name a few you may be familiar with. From my internet sleuthing, it looks like the 1st publication of the recipe was on the back of the Eagles brand can of sweetened condensed milk in the 60's.

Do I pour the Sweetened Condensed Milk on last or after the graham cracker layer?

This is an age-old argument. Some people pour the sweetened condensed milk on last and swear by it. I've always added it over the graham cracker layer. I googled the question, and there is no real consensus; however, the recipe on the Eagle Brand page adds the sweetened condensed milk after the graham cracker layer, and that is what I recommend as well. However, feel free to add it last and let us know what you think in the comments.

Can I leave the coconut layer out?

Yes, just replace the coconut with extra chips and nuts.

Why are my 7 Layer bars soft and runny?

The sweetened condensed milk needs time to cool and set up. Place bars in the fridge to speed up the process.

Can these bars be made ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made up to three days ahead. Store tightly covered in the fridge. When ready to serve, remove them from the fridge and allow the bars to come to room temperature.

Can the Recipe be doubled?

Yes, to double the recipe, use a larger pan or two 9 by 13 pans.

7 Layer Magic Cookie Bars

Description

7 Layer Magic Cookie Bars are crunchy, chewy, and decadently sweet! Made using a rich mix of graham crackers, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate and butterscotch chips, coconut, and nuts, these easy-to-make bars are delightfully gooey and delicious!

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (around 10 to 12 graham crackers)
1/2 cup melted butter (One stick of butter)
14 oz can of Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 cup butterscotch chips (Plus a few more for garnish)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (milk chocolate works too) (Plus a few more for garnish)
1 1/3 cups sweetened coconut flakes
1 cup chopped nuts

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper. Spray lining with no-stick cooking spray, making sure to coat the sides thoroughly.
Mix the graham cracker crumbs and butter and press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the bottom of a measuring cup.
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker mixture. Next, add the butterscotch and the chocolate chip layers. Spread the coconut flakes evenly over the previous layers and finally top with the chopped nuts. Press the mixture down firmly with the back of a measuring cup.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack to cool. Sprinkle the top of the bars with a few more chocolate and butterscotch chips. (I like to use the back of a spoon to spread the melted chips around the top.)
For perfectly cut cookie bars, place the bars in the fridge until they are firm, then remove from the baking dish using the foil liner and cut with a sharp knife.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 336
Fat: 19
Carbohydrates: 38
Protein: 4