Experience the enchantment of Eagle Brand Magic Cookie Bars, a timeless treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. These bars, also known as “Hello Dolly Bars,” are a beloved dessert featuring layers of graham cracker crumbs, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate morsels, coconut, and nuts. Join us as we uncover the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this magical recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate morsels
- 1 1/3 cups flaked coconut
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust. Sprinkle the chocolate morsels, flaked coconut, and chopped nuts over the top, in that order. Press down lightly with a spatula to compact the layers.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and Slice:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or bars of your desired size.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Eagle Brand Magic Cookie Bars as a delightful dessert or snack. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Variety of Nuts: Feel free to customize the recipe by using your favorite nuts such as walnuts, pecans, almonds, or a combination of nuts.
- Flavorful Additions: Add a hint of flavor by incorporating ingredients like butterscotch chips, toffee bits, or dried fruit into the layers.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: For a keto-friendly option, replace the sweetened condensed milk with a sugar-free condensed milk alternative. Use sugar-free chocolate morsels and unsweetened shredded coconut to reduce the carb content.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto substitutions mentioned above and ensure that all other ingredients used are low in carbohydrates. Adjust the sweetness level to your preference using a low-carb sweetener.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of cookie crust? A: Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with crushed cookies such as vanilla wafers or chocolate sandwich cookies for a different flavor profile.
Q: How do I store leftover bars? A: Store the Eagle Brand Magic Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the bars ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to serve. Simply thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Tips for Perfect Magic Cookie Bars:
- Evenly Spread Layers: When layering the ingredients, ensure they are evenly distributed across the crust for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Pressing Down Layers: Gently press down on the layers with the back of a spatula or your fingertips to help compact them and prevent the bars from falling apart when sliced.
- Check for Doneness: The bars are ready when the edges turn golden brown, and the center is set. Be cautious not to overbake, as this can result in dry bars.
- Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set properly and makes cutting cleaner.
Flavorful Variations:
- Nutella Swirl: Add dollops of Nutella on top of the chocolate layer and swirl it gently with a knife for a decadent Nutella twist.
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle melted caramel sauce over the cooled bars and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty contrast.
- Cookie Butter Crunch: Spread a layer of cookie butter between the crust and sweetened condensed milk for a rich and indulgent flavor.
- Fruity Delight: Mix dried fruit such as cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots into the coconut-nut layer for a burst of fruity goodness.
Keto and Low-Carb Adaptations:
- Almond Flour Crust: Substitute the graham cracker crust with a mixture of almond flour, melted butter, and a low-carb sweetener for a keto-friendly base.
- Sugar-Free Condensed Milk: Use a homemade or store-bought sugar-free condensed milk alternative to reduce the sugar content of the bars.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Opt for sugar-free or dark chocolate chips with a higher cocoa content to minimize the carb content while still enjoying the chocolatey goodness.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts or replace them with seeds such as pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version of the bars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Continued:
Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free? A: Yes, you can use gluten-free graham crackers or gluten-free cookie crumbs to make the crust gluten-free.
Q: Can I add additional toppings to the bars? A: Absolutely! Get creative with toppings like crushed pretzels, mini marshmallows, or chopped candy bars for extra texture and flavor.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Swiss cheese? A: While Swiss cheese adds a classic flavor to the bars, you can substitute it with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere for a unique twist.
Elevate your baking game and let your imagination run wild with endless possibilities for customizing Eagle Brand Magic Cookie Bars. Whether you’re catering to dietary preferences, experimenting with new flavors, or simply looking to impress your guests, these versatile bars are the perfect canvas for culinary creativity. So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and embark on a magical baking adventure that’s sure to delight everyone fortunate enough to taste your creations!
