Description
This classic seven layer bar recipe is elevated with a rich, toasted coconut bronze top, making it a decadent and impressive sweet treat perfect for busy families and home bakers. It transforms everyday pantry staples into a crowd-pleasing dessert with wonderful aromas of toasted coconut and butterscotch.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1.5 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prep Pan: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan for about 10 minutes until compact.
- Layer Ingredients: Evenly sprinkle chocolate chips over the crust, followed by butterscotch chips, chopped nuts, and finally shredded coconut. Do not press down on these layers.
- Pour Condensed Milk: Evenly pour the entire 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk over all the layers.
- Bake Bars: Bake for 25-30 minutes at 350F (175C), until the edges are golden brown, the coconut on top forms a bronze top and smells toasted, and the center appears set. If gooey, return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes.
- Cool & Cut: Cool the bars completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. Use the parchment paper to lift them out. For cleaner cuts, chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before slicing into neat squares.
Notes
Consider using organic butter, high-quality dark chocolate chips, or freshly chopped nuts for indulgence. Gluten-free graham cracker crumbs can be used for dietary needs. For budget-friendly options, use store-brand chips and condensed milk, or reduce/omit nuts (or swap for sunflower seeds). Always use fresh, good-quality butter and check condensed milk expiry. If bars are gooey, bake longer until golden and set. For a crumbly crust, press the graham cracker mixture very firmly; a bit more melted butter can help bind it.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approx 50 g)
- Calories: 300 calories
- Sugar: 30 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: easy dessert, seven layer bars, toasted coconut, butterscotch, chocolate chips, pecans, family treat, baking, dessert bars, classic recipe