7 Layer Bars: The Ultimate Gooey Dessert Bar Packed with All the Good Stuff You Crave

If you’ve never had a 7 Layer Bar, prepare yourself for pure magic in every bite. This decadent treat is a delightful mix of buttery graham cracker crust, creamy layers of sweetened condensed milk, and crunchy toppings like coconut, chocolate, and butterscotch chips. Whether you call them Hello Dolly Bars, Magic Bars, or simply 7 Layer Bars, one thing’s for sure – they’ll be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat for yourself.

Scroll to the bottom for recipe!

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These bars have it all: a rich graham cracker base that’s drenched in sweetened condensed milk, creating a gooey, luscious filling that holds together all the irresistible layers. But that’s just the beginning. Chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, chopped almonds, and shredded coconut are sprinkled generously on top to create a chewy, crunchy, sweet masterpiece that hits all the right notes. One bite, and you'll be hooked!

What’s So Special About 7 Layer Bars?

These bars are the definition of indulgence, with layers upon layers of different textures and flavors that come together in the most satisfying way. The graham cracker crust adds a buttery crunch at the base, while the sweetened condensed milk ties everything together, giving the bars their signature chewy texture. Then, you’ve got the rich chocolate chips, the sweet and slightly nutty butterscotch chips, and the shredded coconut, which gives the whole dessert a tropical twist. The chopped almonds add just the right amount of crunch to round out this dessert.

The great thing about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out some of the ingredients to suit your taste. For example, if you're not a fan of almonds, pecans or walnuts work just as well. You can also switch up the chocolate chips – try dark chocolate for a more intense flavor or even white chocolate for extra sweetness.

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Fun Facts About 7 Layer Bars

Did you know that the origin of 7 Layer Bars is a bit of a mystery? While some attribute their creation to Southern kitchens, where sweets like these are a staple, others believe they gained popularity in the 1960s when pre-packaged ingredients like graham crackers and sweetened condensed milk became widely available. These bars were originally called "Hello Dolly Bars," supposedly named after the Broadway musical Hello, Dolly! in the '60s. But no matter where they came from, these layered bars have become a beloved treat across the country.

One thing that makes these bars extra special is the combination of sweetened condensed milk and graham cracker crust. Sweetened condensed milk, made by reducing milk and sugar, gives the bars their chewy and creamy texture while adding just the right amount of sweetness. And while graham crackers are often thought of as a humble snack, when combined with butter and baked, they transform into a crispy, flavorful base that holds the whole dessert together.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 24 Bars):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 80mg

These bars are definitely a treat, but with all that flavor and texture, they’re worth every bite. They’re sweet, rich, and perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself.

Serving Suggestions

7 Layer Bars are perfect as is, but if you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Want to mix things up a bit? Try drizzling the top with a little bit of caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

They’re also the perfect dessert to bring to a potluck or bake sale, as they’re easy to transport and cut into shareable pieces. Pack them up in a tin or wrap them in cellophane, and you’ve got the perfect homemade gift!

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Let’s dive into the recipe so you can make your own irresistible 7 Layer Bars!

Ingredients:

• ½ cup melted salted butter (unsalted is fine too)
• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (crushed graham crackers)
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14-ounce can)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup butterscotch chips
• 1 cup flaked sweetened coconut (or shredded coconut)
• 1 cup chopped almonds

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until thoroughly combined.
3. Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer of buttery graham crust.
4. Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk over the graham cracker crust, making sure to spread it evenly across the top.
5. Sprinkle the coconut across the milk layer, reserving a little bit for topping at the end.
6. Next, evenly distribute the butterscotch chips, chocolate chips, and chopped almonds over the coconut layer.
7. Sprinkle the remaining coconut on top for a lovely golden finish.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top begins to turn a delicious golden brown.
9. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before attempting to remove the bars from the dish.
10. Once completely cooled, slice the bars into 24 pieces and serve!

Storage and Freezing Tips

Storage: Store your 7 Layer Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The bars will keep their chewy texture and won’t dry out, thanks to the condensed milk and coconut.

Freezing: These bars freeze wonderfully! Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up.

Make a batch (or two) of these scrumptious 7 Layer Bars and watch them disappear—if you can resist eating them all yourself!