Magic Cookie Bars from EAGLE BRAND®

Name: Magic Cookie Bars from EAGLE BRAND®
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 can (14 ounces) EAGLE BRAND® Sweetened Condensed Milk; 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips; 1 cup shredded coconut; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight your senses with these Magic Cookie Bars, a scrumptious blend of sweet ingredients that create a heavenly dessert. Featuring layers of chocolate, nuts, and coconut, these bars are quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion. Satisfy your sweet tooth and impress friends and family with this irresistible treat.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2025-11-30T14:54:21.201Z

Magic Cookie Bars are a nostalgic treat that bring joy to any gathering. Their rich flavors and chewy texture make them a favorite among dessert lovers.

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Magic Cookie Bars are an all-time favorite dessert that's sure to please everyone at your next gathering. Whether it's a family potluck, a holiday party, or simply a cozy night in, these bars bring joy and satisfaction with every bite. They are incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the layers with your favorite ingredients. From adding peanut butter chips for an extra layer of flavor to using different types of nuts, the possibilities are endless. This recipe speaks to the heart of simplicity and deliciousness in one go.

In addition to their delicious taste, Magic Cookie Bars are remarkably easy to make. With minimal preparation time and no need for complicated techniques, even novice bakers can whip up a crowd-pleasing treat. The straightforward layering method appeals to those who want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time sharing delightful moments with loved ones. Plus, the combination of textures—from the crunchy crust to the gooey center—makes for an unforgettable experience.

Embrace Your Creativity with Add-ins

One of the best aspects of Magic Cookie Bars is their adaptability. You can easily modify this recipe to suit your personal taste or seasonal ingredients. Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a chewy, fruity addition. Or, swap the nuts for a mix of seeds to accommodate nut allergies while still enjoying a crunchy texture. Each variation creates a unique take on this classic, ensuring that you can enjoy this treat year-round.

If you're a fan of indulgence, think about drizzling some caramel or peanut butter on top before baking, or even whipping up a ganache to pour over the bars once they cool. Incorporating flavors like mint or almond extract into the sweetened condensed milk can also elevate the experience. The ability to personalize the flavors and textures is what makes these bars not only magical but also uniquely yours.

Serving and Storing Your Magic Cookie Bars

Once baked, allow your Magic Cookie Bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For best results, slice the bars into squares only after they have cooled, ensuring clean edges and a beautiful presentation. If you're serving these bars later, feel free to store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for a slightly firmer texture that many find delightful.

For those who wish to make these delicious treats ahead of time, Magic Cookie Bars can be easily frozen. Simply wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored this way for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply remove the desired number of bars, let them thaw at room temperature, and indulge in the delightful magic all over again!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Magic Cookie Bars

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 can (14 ounces) EAGLE BRAND® Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Make sure to gather all the ingredients before starting the preparation.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.

Add the Layers

Layer the chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and nuts on top of the crust. Evenly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the top.

Bake the Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing for best results.

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the best texture for your Magic Cookie Bars, make sure your butter is genuinely melted. If the butter is only partially melted or too cool, it may not blend well with the graham cracker crumbs, leading to a crumbly crust. Additionally, pressing the crust mixture firmly into the baking pan creates a solid base that holds its shape when baked.

For an extra level of indulgence, consider using high-quality chocolate chips. Gourmet chocolate will not only enhance the flavor but also melt beautifully, creating that gooey texture we all love. Remember, choosing quality ingredients can significantly impact the final result.

Allergen Considerations

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies to consider, Magic Cookie Bars can be easily modified. For gluten-free options, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Many brands now offer gluten-free graham cracker options that work beautifully in this recipe.

For nut allergies, simply omit the chopped nuts and consider adding seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch. These substitutes allow everyone to enjoy the treats without worry, ensuring that all guests can indulge in the magic of these delicious bars.

Why Sweetened Condensed Milk is Essential

Sweetened condensed milk is a crucial ingredient in Magic Cookie Bars, providing a creamy sweetness that binds all the other layers together. Its thick texture allows it to penetrate through the layers during baking, resulting in perfectly moist bars that are still easy to cut and serve. This ingredient adds richness that elevates the overall flavor profile of the dessert.

Using sweetened condensed milk not only simplifies the process—helping you skip the step of measuring and adding sugars and creams separately—but it also enhances the gooeyness of the bars. Ensure you use EAGLE BRAND® Sweetened Condensed Milk for the best results, as its quality has made it a favorite among bakers for generations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

→ How should I store the Magic Cookie Bars?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.