If you’ve ever been on the hunt for a nostalgic, utterly delicious treat that hits all the right notes of sweet, crunchy, and buttery, then this 7 Layer Bars Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine a gorgeous crust layered with gooey sweetened condensed milk, nutty pecans, toasted coconut, rich chocolate, and butterscotch chips, all baked to golden perfection in one heavenly pan. These bars are surprisingly easy to whip up but deliver on incredible flavor and texture in every bite, making them perfect for gatherings or simply indulging your sweet tooth at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to bake these irresistible bars is a breeze, thanks to a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—from the buttery, crumbly graham cracker base to the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate and the crunchy, toasted coconut that adds a tropical touch. Here’s everything you’ll want to have on hand before you dive in.
- Graham cracker crumbs: This forms the crunchy and buttery base for the bars.
- Salted butter (melted): Helps bind the crumbs and adds rich flavor.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Creates the luscious, gooey layer that holds everything together.
- Butterscotch chips: Add a sweet, caramel-like kick that complements the chocolate perfectly.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Provide a rich, classic chocolate touch to balance sweetness.
- Flaked coconut: Offers a light chewiness and subtle tropical flavor.
- Chopped pecans: Bring delightful crunch and a nutty warmth.
How to Make 7 Layer Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly coating a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. Line the pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides—this trick makes it so much easier to lift the entire batch out when it’s baked, ensuring clean, perfect squares.
Step 2: Press the Crust
Mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted salted butter until everything is well combined. Then, firmly press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This forms the sturdy, buttery foundation for your bars, so take your time to press it down firmly!
Step 3: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Evenly drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the crust layer. This layer is the glue that brings the 7 Layer Bars Recipe to life, giving the finished bars that gooey, sweet richness you’re craving.
Step 4: Layer the Remaining Ingredients
Now for the fun part. Layer your butterscotch chips, semi-sweet chocolate chips, flaked coconut, and chopped pecans evenly over the condensed milk. Press down gently with a fork to help everything stick together without squishing the delicate texture of your layers.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the bars—once the top is lightly golden and fragrant, it’s time to pull them out. This golden hue signals the perfect balance of crunchy and chewy layers is ready to be enjoyed.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
While the bars are still warm, carefully loosen the edges from the pan. Let the pan cool completely on a wire rack so the bars set properly. When cooled, use a sharp knife to cut into 24 delectable squares. These bars are ready to steal the show!
How to Serve 7 Layer Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Though these bars are stunning and satisfying on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar can add an elegant touch. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of extra toasted coconut on top just before serving can elevate them further.
Side Dishes
Pair your 7 Layer Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience. They also shine alongside fresh berries or a cup of strong coffee or tea to contrast their sweet richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your dessert table pop by serving these bars on a decorative platter, layered with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for color contrast. You can also cut the bars into mini bite-sized squares and arrange them on cocktail picks for an easy-to-eat, party-ready treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover 7 Layer Bars keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, making them a great make-ahead treat for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, freeze the bars in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture well for up to one month. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
These bars are delicious cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer a warm, melty bite, pop individual squares in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the chocolate and butterscotch chips just enough to send your taste buds over the moon.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts in the 7 Layer Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! Pecans add a classic flavor, but walnuts or almonds work beautifully and bring their own unique crunch and taste to the bars.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free cookie crumb for a safe and tasty alternative.
Can I omit the coconut if I don’t like it?
Definitely. The coconut adds texture and flavor, but you can leave it out or replace it with more nuts or even chopped dried fruit if that suits your taste better.
How long do these bars stay fresh?
Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, these bars stay fresh and delicious for about 3 days. Beyond that, freezing is your best bet to preserve freshness.
Can I double this 7 Layer Bars Recipe?
For sure! Just double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan or in two separate 9×13 inch pans. Adjust baking time accordingly, watching for that perfect golden top.
Final Thoughts
Making this 7 Layer Bars Recipe feels like creating a little bit of magic in your kitchen, with layers of flavor and texture that bring smiles all around. Whether you’re baking for a party, a potluck, or simply to treat yourself, these bars never fail to impress. Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the most joyful desserts you’ll ever make!
Print
7 Layer Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these classic 7 Layer Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust layered with sweetened condensed milk, butterscotch chips, semi-sweet chocolate chips, flaked coconut, and chopped pecans. Baked to a golden perfection, these bars offer a rich, chewy, and crunchy dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup salted butter (melted)
Layers
- 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1â…“ cup flaked coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. Line the pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over for easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Make Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted salted butter. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create the crust layer.
- Add Condensed Milk: Evenly drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the graham cracker crust, ensuring full coverage to help bind the layers.
- Layer Remaining Ingredients: Sprinkle the butterscotch chips, then the semi-sweet chocolate chips, followed by the flaked coconut, and finally the chopped pecans evenly over the condensed milk layer. Press down gently with a fork to compact the layers slightly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top turns a light golden brown color.
- Cool and Cut: Remove the pan from the oven and while still warm, use the parchment edges to loosen the bars from the pan. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely before cutting into 24 equal pieces using a sharp knife.
Notes
- For easy removal, ensure to use parchment paper with edges extending beyond the pan.
- Press the crust firmly to avoid crumbling bars.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on preference.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- These bars freeze well; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
