Magic Cookie Bars

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Magic Cookie Bars

These classic bars are loaded with layers of buttery graham crackers, gooey sweetened condensed milk, chocolate, coconut, and pecans. A delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite!

Ingredients

(Yields about 24 bars)

  • 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 1/3 cups flaked sweetened coconut
  • 1 (12-ounce) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Pan

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the butter directly in a 13×9-inch baking pan.
  3. Put the pan in the oven for 3-5 minutes to melt the butter completely.

2. Build the Base Layer

  1. Once the butter is melted, remove the pan from the oven.
  2. Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs evenly over the melted butter.
  3. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press the crumbs firmly into the pan, creating an even layer.

3. Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk

  1. Drizzle the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker layer.
  2. Use a spatula to spread it slightly, ensuring full coverage.

4. Layer the Toppings

  1. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the condensed milk.
  2. Add the flaked coconut on top, spreading it out in an even layer.
  3. Finish by scattering the chopped pecans over the coconut layer.

5. Bake

  1. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the coconut is lightly toasted.

6. Cool and Cut

  1. Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial to ensure they set properly before cutting.
  2. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.

Tips for Success

  • Press the Layers Firmly: This helps ensure the bars hold together when cut.
  • Customize the Toppings: Swap the pecans for walnuts, almonds, or even dried fruit if desired.
  • Prevent Sticking: Line the pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides, for easy removal and clean cutting.
  • Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. These bars also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Info

  • Calories: ~180 per bar (depending on size)
  • Serving Size: 24 bars

Enjoy these decadent Magic Cookie Bars, whether for a holiday treat, potluck favorite, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth! Each bite is a perfect harmony of buttery, crunchy, gooey, and chocolatey goodness.

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