If you have a sweet tooth and love a dessert bursting with textures and flavors, this 7 Layer Bars Recipe is about to become your new go-to treat. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust holding together layers of sweetened condensed milk, gooey butterscotch and chocolate chips, chewy coconut, and crunchy pecans—each bite is a delightful combination of rich, nutty, and sugary goodness. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or just sneaking a piece for yourself, these bars bring such a nostalgic, comforting charm that you’ll find yourself coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward list of pantry staples that each play a vital role in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible visual appeal. Each ingredient is chosen not only for taste but for how it complements the layers, creating a perfect balance in every square.
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs: The crisp, slightly sweet base that adds structure and a lovely golden color.
- ½ cup salted butter (melted): Provides richness and helps bind the crumbs to form a sturdy crust.
- 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk: Acts as a luscious glue that melts the layers into a gooey delight.
- 1 cup butterscotch chips: Adds a creamy, buttery sweetness that deepens the flavor profile.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Brings a gentle chocolatey contrast to the sweetness of the other layers.
- 1⅓ cup flaked coconut: Offers a chewy, tropical texture that keeps things exciting with every bite.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: For a crunchy, nutty finish that balances the soft and gooey textures.
How to Make 7 Layer Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (about 175°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. For the easiest cleanup and perfect cuts, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving the edges hanging over the sides. This handy trick lets you lift the entire batch out after it cools, ensuring neat squares without any crumbling.
Step 2: Create the Crust
Mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined. Press this crumbly mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This forms the buttery crust that holds all your delicious layers and gives a satisfyingly crisp texture under all that gooey richness.
Step 3: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Next, evenly drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the crust. This layer might look simple, but it’s key to binding everything together during baking and adding creamy sweetness that makes these bars so irresistible.
Step 4: Layer on the Remaining Ingredients
It’s time to pile on the fun stuff. Sprinkle the butterscotch chips, semi-sweet chocolate chips, flaked coconut, and chopped pecans in the order listed. Spread each ingredient evenly so every bite gets a bit of everything. Press down gently with a fork to help the layers stick and compact slightly.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You want the top to turn a light golden brown—this means all the magic is happening inside, melding the flavors and creating that perfect, chewy-yet-crunchy texture we crave.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Once baked, carefully loosen the edges of the bars from the pan while they’re still warm, then let the entire pan cool completely on a wire rack. Cooling fully ensures clean, solid squares when you cut with a sharp knife. Using the parchment paper edges, lift out the block and slice into 24 beautiful, mouthwatering pieces.
How to Serve 7 Layer Bars Recipe
Garnishes
While these bars perfectly stand on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate their appearance and add a subtle sweetness that’s gorgeous to look at and delicious to taste. Fresh berries on the side also add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the richness.
Side Dishes
Serve your 7 Layer Bars Recipe alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to turn this into an indulgent dessert or a festive addition to brunch menus.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of stacking them on a plate, try arranging the bars in a clear glass trifle dish layered with whipped cream for a decadent dessert display. Or wrap individual squares in decorative parchment and tie with ribbon for charming party favors that your guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any pieces left (which might be difficult!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They stay moist and flavorful, making them an easy grab-and-go snack.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge to retain their perfect texture and taste.
Reheating
For a warm treat, pop a bar in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This softens the chocolate and butterscotch, bringing a freshly baked feel with minimal effort.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pecans for other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work wonderfully as alternatives if pecans aren’t your favorite or if you need to accommodate allergies. Just chop them similarly to keep the texture consistent.
Is it possible to make 7 Layer Bars Recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, with some tweaks! Substitute vegan butter, use dairy-free butterscotch and chocolate chips, and a plant-based condensed milk alternative. The layers might shift slightly in taste and texture but will still be delicious.
Why should I use parchment paper lining in the pan?
Parchment paper makes removing the bars effortless, preventing sticking and allowing for perfectly shaped squares without crumbs or broken edges, giving your dessert a professional touch.
Can I prepare the bars ahead and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the layers in the pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Then bake fresh the next day for a quicker after-dinner treat with all the layers perfectly melded.
What’s the best knife to cut these bars?
A large sharp chef’s knife or serrated knife works best. To prevent sticking, clean the blade between cuts or warm it slightly in hot water, then dry before slicing.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a classic, no-fuss dessert that dazzles with textures and rich flavors, the 7 Layer Bars Recipe is a winner every single time. It’s simple, satisfying, and versatile enough to impress at any gathering or brighten your everyday moments. Trust me, once you make these bars, they’re going to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. Give them a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
7 Layer Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make 7 Layer Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with layers of sweetened condensed milk, butterscotch chips, semi-sweet chocolate chips, flaked coconut, and chopped pecans, all baked to golden perfection for a rich and chewy treat 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
- 1⅓ cup flaked coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: 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, letting the paper hang over the edges for easy removal and clean, even squares.
- Make the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted salted butter until evenly mixed. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust layer.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Evenly drizzle the entire can of sweetened condensed milk over the graham cracker crust, ensuring good coverage to help bind the layers.
- Layer the Toppings: Sprinkle the butterscotch chips evenly over the condensed milk, followed by the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Then add the flaked coconut and top with the chopped pecans. Press down gently with a fork to adhere the layers together.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top becomes lightly golden and bubbly, indicating the layers are melted and set.
- Cool and Cut: Remove the bars from the oven and while still warm, loosen the edges from the pan using the parchment paper. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely. Once cool, cut into 24 squares using a sharp knife.
Notes
- For easier removal, make sure parchment paper hangs over the edges of the pan.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts if preferred.
- Pressing layers gently with a fork helps the bars hold together when sliced.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Allow bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
