Magic Cookie Bars

Magic Cookie Bars are a beloved classic dessert with layers of graham cracker crust, melty chocolate, shredded coconut, and crunchy walnuts, all brought together by rich, sweetened condensed milk. These bars are as easy to make as they are delicious—perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a simple sweet craving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Magic Cookie Bars require minimal prep and zero mixing of the topping layers. Each bite is a perfect balance of textures and flavors—from the buttery base to the gooey, golden topping. Whether you’re a coconut lover or a chocolate fanatic, these bars will satisfy your dessert desires and impress with their layered beauty.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/2 cup melted butter

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

• 1 cup coconut flakes

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

• 1 can sweetened condensed milk

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined.

3. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

4. Layer the chocolate chips, coconut flakes, and chopped walnuts evenly over the crust.

5. Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire pan, covering all the ingredients.

6. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Calories per serving: 300 kcal

Variations

• Nut-free: Omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

• Extra sweet: Add white chocolate or butterscotch chips to the layers.

• Fruity twist: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a pop of tart sweetness.

• Spiced flavor: Sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the graham cracker crust.

• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

storage/reheating

Store Magic Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Let frozen bars come to room temperature before serving. These bars are best served at room temperature and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Magic Cookie Bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars hold up well and are great to make a day or two in advance.

Can I use sweetened shredded coconut?

Yes, both sweetened and unsweetened coconut flakes work—it depends on your sweetness preference.

Do I have to use walnuts?

No, you can substitute with pecans, almonds, or leave them out entirely.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate, white chocolate, or a mix of chips all taste great.

How do I get clean cuts when slicing?

Let the bars cool completely and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Can I use homemade condensed milk?

Yes, homemade condensed milk works just as well as store-bought.

Why are they called “Magic” Cookie Bars?

Because they magically transform into layered bars with minimal effort—just layer and bake!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan and keep an eye on baking time, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Can I freeze Magic Cookie Bars?

Yes, they freeze beautifully. Just thaw before serving.

Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?

Not required, but they will last longer in the fridge if you’re storing them beyond a few days.

Conclusion

Magic Cookie Bars are the ultimate low-effort, high-reward dessert. With layers of sweet and crunchy ingredients that magically meld in the oven, they’re an instant hit wherever they go. Whether you’re baking for a party or a personal treat, these bars are bound to become a go-to favorite.

Magic Cookie Bars

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Magic Cookie Bars are a classic dessert that combines layers of graham cracker crust, melty chocolate, shredded coconut, and crunchy walnuts, all bound together by rich sweetened condensed milk. These easy-to-make bars are perfect for potlucks, holidays, or whenever you need a simple, delicious treat. With their irresistible texture and flavor, Magic Cookie Bars are sure to impress everyone who tries them.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup melted butter

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup coconut flakes

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

1 can sweetened condensed milk

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Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

• In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined.

• Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

• Layer the chocolate chips, coconut flakes, and chopped walnuts evenly over the crust.

• Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire pan, covering all the ingredients.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

• Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Notes

• For a nut-free version, replace the walnuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

• Add white chocolate or butterscotch chips to the layers for an extra sweet twist.

• You can mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of tart sweetness.

• For a spiced flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the graham cracker crust.

• Use gluten-free graham crackers if you’d like a gluten-free option.

• Author: Sophia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert, Bars
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian