Seven Layer Bars Recipe

Graham cracker crumbs: These crumbs form the base of the bars, providing a crunchy and slightly sweet foundation.

Unsalted butter: Melted butter helps bind the graham cracker crumbs together to create a solid crust.

Sweetened shredded coconut: Adds a chewy texture and a hint of tropical sweetness to the bars.

Chocolate chips: Provide rich, melty chocolate goodness in every bite.

Butterscotch chips: Add a sweet, caramel-like flavor that complements the chocolate chips.

Chopped nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the bars.

Sweetened condensed milk: This thick, sweet milk binds all the layers together and adds a creamy sweetness.

To ensure an even distribution of the sweetened condensed milk over the layers, pour it slowly in a zigzag pattern across the entire surface. This helps to cover all the ingredients uniformly and prevents any dry spots in your seven layer bars.

• graham cracker crumbs - Substitute with crushed digestive biscuits: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and flavor profile to graham crackers.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a subtle coconut flavor.

• sweetened shredded coconut - Substitute with unsweetened shredded coconut: If you prefer less sweetness, unsweetened shredded coconut can be used.

• chocolate chips - Substitute with carob chips: Carob chips are a caffeine-free alternative to chocolate chips and have a similar texture.

• butterscotch chips - Substitute with white chocolate chips: White chocolate chips provide a different but complementary sweetness.

• chopped nuts - Substitute with sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds add a similar crunch and nutty flavor without the use of tree nuts.

• sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut condensed milk: Coconut condensed milk is a dairy-free alternative that provides the same sweetness and consistency.

• Allow the seven layer bars to cool completely at room temperature. This ensures they set properly and are easier to handle.
• Once cooled, cut the bars into desired sizes. Use a sharp knife to make clean cuts.
• For short-term storage, place the bars in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment or wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
• Store the container at room temperature if you plan to consume the bars within 3-4 days. Ensure the container is kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• For longer storage, place the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until they are firm.
• Once frozen, transfer the bars to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Again, use parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of freshness. The seven layer bars can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, remove the desired number of bars from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a few seconds to speed up the process.
• For an extra touch, serve the bars slightly chilled for a firmer texture, or at room temperature for a softer, gooey experience.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the seven layer bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the bars loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through.
  5. Allow them to cool slightly before enjoying.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a seven layer bar on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
  3. Check the bar and, if needed, heat in additional 10-second intervals until warmed to your liking.
  4. Be cautious not to overheat, as the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips can melt too much.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the seven layer bars on a small baking tray.
  3. Heat for about 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
  4. Let them cool for a minute or two before serving.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the seven layer bars in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not stacked.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even warming.
  4. Allow them to cool slightly before indulging.

• Oven: Used to bake the seven layer bars at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.

• 9x13 inch baking pan: The pan in which the layers are assembled and baked.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients such as graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and chopped nuts.

• Spatula: Used to press the graham cracker and butter mixture evenly into the baking pan.

• Can opener: Used to open the can of sweetened condensed milk.

• Knife: Used to chop the nuts if they are not pre-chopped.

• Cooling rack: Used to allow the bars to cool completely before cutting.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface for chopping the nuts.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and chopped nuts in advance to streamline the process.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt the unsalted butter in the microwave instead of on the stove.

Combine dry ingredients: Mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter directly in the baking pan to save on dishwashing.

Cool faster: Place the baked bars in the fridge to cool more quickly before cutting.