Pin It A decadent, chewy dessert bar layered with chocolate, butterscotch, coconut, nuts, and a luscious salted caramel drizzle — a truly magical treat perfect for any sweet tooth.
I first made these magic bars for a weekend potluck and they disappeared in minutes. The combination of flavors and textures always gets rave reviews, and that salted caramel drizzle makes them a showstopper every time.
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs: 1 1/2 cups (180 g), for the base crust
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (115 g), melted
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: 1 cup (180 g)
- Butterscotch chips: 1 cup (180 g)
- Sweetened shredded coconut: 1 cup (120 g)
- Chopped walnuts or pecans: 1/2 cup (60 g)
- Sweetened condensed milk: 1 cup (300 ml)
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g), for the caramel
- Water: 2 tbsp (30 ml)
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp (30 g), for the caramel
- Heavy cream: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Flaky sea salt: 1/2 tsp, for the drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare the pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch (23x23 cm) pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Make the crust:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined. Press mixture firmly into the pan to form a base crust.
- Layer the toppings:
- Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over crust, followed by butterscotch chips, then coconut, then chopped nuts.
- Add condensed milk:
- Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over all layers.
- Bake:
- Bake 25 to 30 minutes, until edges are golden and center is set. Cool completely in pan.
- Make caramel:
- In saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Stir till dissolved, then cook without stirring until mixture turns deep amber (4 to 5 minutes). Remove from heat, whisk in butter, then slowly add heavy cream while whisking. Stir in sea salt and let cool slightly.
- Finish & serve:
- Drizzle cooled caramel over bars. Let set, lift bars out by parchment overhang, and cut into squares.
Pin It My kids love helping sprinkle the different layers and drizzling caramel on top — it's a recipe that has quickly become a family favorite during the holidays.
Customization Ideas
Swap out walnuts for pecans or almonds, or use dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor. You can also add dried fruit or extra coconut on top for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bars slightly warm with a scoop of ice cream, or pack them as treats for parties and picnics.
Storage Tips
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for up to one week. They also freeze well — just thaw before enjoying!
Pin It These 7-layer magic bars are guaranteed to impress — a sweet finish for any celebration and perfect for sharing.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of nuts can be used in the bars?
Walnuts, pecans, or almonds can be used, depending on your preference for flavor and texture.
- → How do I make the salted caramel drizzle?
Sugar and water are cooked until amber, then butter, heavy cream, and sea salt are whisked in to create a rich caramel sauce.
- → Can these bars be made gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting regular graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives for the crust.
- → How can I ensure the bars hold together well?
Pressing the graham cracker crust firmly and baking until edges are golden helps the bars set and hold their shape.
- → Is it possible to store these bars for later?
Yes, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated to maintain freshness.