Looking for a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s quick to make and absolutely addictive? Magic Cookie Bars, also known as 6-layer bars or Hello Dolly bars, are a retro American classic made with layers of delicious ingredients that magically transform into a rich, gooey, crunchy treat. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy sweetened condensed milk, melty chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts, every bite is pure bliss.
Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, Magic Cookie Bars are a timeless recipe that delivers comfort and sweetness in every layer.
Why You’ll Love These Magic Cookie Bars
- Easy to Make: One pan, no mixing bowls, and just six ingredients.
- Quick Bake Time: From start to finish in under 35 minutes.
- Great for Gifting: Wrap them up and share the magic.
- Customizable: Swap nuts, chips, or crusts to suit your taste.
- Perfect for All Seasons: Great for summer picnics or cozy winter baking.
Ingredients (Serves 3)
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14 oz) can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 ⅓ cups flaked coconut
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans are classic choices)
How to Make Magic Cookie Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a glass dish, reduce the heat to 325°F (165°C) to prevent overbaking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a firm, even crust.
Step 3: Layer the Goodness
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust. Then, layer on the semisweet chocolate chips, flaked coconut, and chopped nuts. Gently press down the toppings with the back of a fork to help them adhere as they bake.
Step 4: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Keep an eye on the coconut to ensure it doesn’t brown too much.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan—this helps them firm up for cleaner cuts. Once cooled, slice into bars or diamond shapes. Store at room temperature or in the fridge for firmer texture.
Tips for the Best Magic Cookie Bars
- Line the Pan: Use parchment paper with overhang to easily lift the bars out of the pan.
- Chill Before Cutting: If they’re too gooey, pop them in the fridge for an hour before slicing.
- Don’t Stir the Layers: Resist the urge to mix—layering is what makes these bars magical.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Higher quality chips or chopped chocolate give a richer flavor.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
Magic Cookie Bars are incredibly adaptable. Here are some popular twists:
- Different Chips: Try butterscotch, white chocolate, or peanut butter chips.
- Alternative Nuts: Use almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts.
- Coconut-Free: Omit the coconut and replace it with extra chips or chopped pretzels.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a celiac-friendly dessert.
- Spiced Crust: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the graham cracker base.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious on their own but also make great dessert platters or pairings:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream.
- Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.
- Sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast.
- Include in holiday cookie trays for extra variety.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 1 week for a firmer bite.
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze cut bars in a single layer, then transfer to a container. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temp.
These bars are perfect for make-ahead desserts—ideal for stress-free party prep.
Join the Conversation
What’s your favorite twist on Magic Cookie Bars? Did you try white chocolate chips or go classic with coconut and walnuts? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your photos! We love seeing how you make these magic bars your own.
Magic Cookie Bars
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 14 oz can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 ⅓ cups flaked coconut
- 1 cup chopped nuts walnuts or pecans are classic choices
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a glass dish, reduce the heat to 325°F (165°C) to prevent overbaking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a firm, even crust.
Step 3: Layer the Goodness
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust. Then, layer on the semisweet chocolate chips, flaked coconut, and chopped nuts. Gently press down the toppings with the back of a fork to help them adhere as they bake.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Keep an eye on the coconut to ensure it doesn’t brown too much.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan—this helps them firm up for cleaner cuts. Once cooled, slice into bars or diamond shapes. Store at room temperature or in the fridge for firmer texture.
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