7 Layer Bars: The Ultimate Recipe for a Decadent Dessert Delight

7 Layer Bars are a delightful treat that never fails to impress at gatherings and family events. These bars, with their rich layers of chocolate, coconut, and nuts, create a symphony of flavors and textures that are simply irresistible. Originating from the classic American dessert repertoire, 7 Layer Bars have become a staple in many households, often associated with potlucks and bake sales. I love how easy they are to make, yet they deliver a gourmet experience that leaves everyone asking for the recipe. The combination of sweetened condensed milk and a medley of toppings makes each bite a perfect balance of chewy and crunchy. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, 7 Layer Bars are a convenient and satisfying dessert that will surely become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup butterscotch chips
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well)

Preparing the Base

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. 2. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will help with easy removal of the bars once they are baked. 3. **Make the Graham Cracker Crust**: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs with 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter. Stir until the crumbs are fully coated and the mixture resembles wet sand. 4. **Press the Crust into the Dish**: Pour the graham cracker mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using the back of a measuring cup or your hands, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the dish. This will form a solid base for your 7 layer bars.

Layering the Ingredients

5. **Add the Coconut**: Sprinkle 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut evenly over the graham cracker crust. Make sure to cover the entire surface for that delicious coconut flavor in every bite. 6. **Sprinkle the Chocolate Chips**: Next, add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips over the coconut layer. You can use more or less depending on how chocolatey you want your bars to be. 7. **Add the Butterscotch Chips**: Follow the chocolate chips with 1 cup of butterscotch chips. The combination of chocolate and butterscotch creates a rich, sweet flavor that is simply irresistible. 8. **Chop and Add the Nuts**: If you’re using nuts, chop 1 cup of walnuts or pecans into smaller pieces. Sprinkle them evenly over the butterscotch chips. This adds a nice crunch to the bars. 9. **Pour the Sweetened Condensed Milk**: Finally, take 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk and pour it evenly over the entire layered mixture. Make sure to cover all the layers so that they bind together while baking.

Baking the Bars

10. **Bake in the Oven**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking. 11. **Cool the Bars**: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the layers set a bit more before cutting. 12. **Chill for Better Cutting**: For cleaner cuts, I recommend placing the dish in the refrigerator for about 1 hour. This step is optional, but it makes slicing the bars much easier.

Cutting and Serving

13. **Slice the Bars**: Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. I usually go for about 2-inch squares, but you can adjust the size based on how many people you’re serving. 14. **Serve and Enjoy**: Place the cut bars on a serving platter. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Tips and Variations

15. **Experiment with Flavors**: Feel free to mix and match the layers! You can add peanut butter chips, white chocolate chips, or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a different twist. 16. **Make it Gluten-Free**: If you need a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. 17. **Add a Drizzle**: For an extra touch, melt some chocolate or butterscotch chips and drizzle them over the top of the bars before serving. It adds a beautiful finish and enhances the flavor. 18. **Perfect for Any Occasion**: These 7 layer bars are perfect for potlucks

Conclusion:

In summary, these 7 Layer Bars are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a sweet treat that combines a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The layers of graham cracker crust, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, coconut, and nuts create a symphony of taste that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving something sweet, these bars are sure to impress your friends and family. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience. You can also experiment with variations by swapping out the nuts or using different types of chocolate to suit your taste. Want a little extra crunch? Add some crushed pretzels or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a unique twist! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of baking these delicious 7 Layer Bars. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for these delightful treats together! Happy baking! Print