Magic Cookie Bars from Eagle Brand: A Sweet, Nostalgic Treat

Magic Cookie Bars are a classic, delicious dessert that has stood the test of time. With a buttery graham cracker crust, rich chocolate chips, sweet coconut, crunchy nuts, and the perfect touch of sweetened condensed milk, these bars are a perfect combination of textures and flavors. They’re incredibly easy to make and always a hit with both kids and adults. This nostalgic recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves simple, homemade sweets!

Quick Benefits

• Simple to Make: These bars only require a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time, making them the perfect quick treat.
• No-Bake Option: If you need a quick dessert without the hassle of baking, these bars are ideal as they only need to be baked once.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their chocolatey, coconutty, and nutty flavor, these bars are sure to satisfy a variety of taste preferences.
• Convenient for Storage: The bars store well and are easy to grab for a quick snack or dessert when you’re craving something sweet.

Essential Ingredients

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the base of the bars and provide a crunchy and slightly sweet foundation.
• Butter: The butter is mixed with the graham cracker crumbs to create a rich, buttery crust.
• Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient binds the toppings together, creating the signature gooey texture.
• Semisweet Chocolate Morsels: These add the chocolatey flavor that makes these bars so irresistible.
• Flaked Coconut: Adds a sweet, chewy texture that complements the other ingredients.
• Chopped Nuts: You can use any nuts you prefer, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds, for added crunch and flavor.

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a glass dish, preheat to 325°F (165°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until well combined, then press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
3. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust.
4. Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the chocolate chips, coconut, and chopped nuts evenly over the milk layer. Press the toppings down gently with the back of a fork to ensure they stick.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the bars are lightly browned on top.
6. Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into 36 bars or diamond-shaped pieces. Serve and enjoy!

Health Benefits

• Rich in Protein: These bars provide 2g of protein per serving, thanks to the nuts and condensed milk.
• Good Source of Fiber: The coconut and graham cracker crumbs provide a small amount of fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.
• Energy Boosting: The sugar from the condensed milk and chocolate, combined with the fat from the butter and nuts, gives a quick burst of energy.

Serving Suggestions

• On Their Own: These bars are perfect as a simple, sweet treat to enjoy with coffee or tea.
• With Ice Cream: Top a warm piece of magic cookie bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• For Special Occasions: These bars are great for parties, picnics, or holiday gatherings and are sure to be a hit with guests.
• Pair with Fruit: Serve with fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas, for a balance of sweetness and freshness.

Creative Variations

• Peanut Butter: Swirl in some peanut butter into the condensed milk for a rich, nutty flavor.
• White Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips instead of semisweet chocolate for a different flavor profile.
• Fruit Add-ins: Add dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture and extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free: To make these bars gluten-free, substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or another gluten-free base.

Storage Tips

• At Room Temperature: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• In the Refrigerator: For a firmer texture, store the bars in the fridge for up to a week. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
• Freezing: These bars freeze well. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Pro Tips

• Press Toppings Firmly: Press the chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts down with a fork to ensure they stay in place and don’t fall off when cutting the bars.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. You want them to be lightly browned on top, but don’t overbake them, as they may dry out.
• Customize the Crust: Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract to the graham cracker crumb mixture for added flavor.
• Use a Sharp Knife: When cutting the bars, use a sharp knife to get clean edges. If they stick to the knife, try dipping it in warm water between cuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars in advance?
Yes, these bars are great for making ahead of time. They’ll stay fresh for several days at room temperature or in the fridge.

Can I use regular milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is a key ingredient that gives the bars their signature gooey texture and sweetness. Regular milk will not work as a substitute for this recipe.

What can I substitute for the nuts?
If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer not to use them, you can leave them out entirely or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

Can I make a smaller batch of these bars?
Yes, you can cut the recipe in half and use an 8×8-inch baking dish for a smaller batch.

Magic Cookie Bars are an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the best of chocolate, coconut, and nuts in a delightful, sweet treat. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are sure to bring smiles to your table!

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