Let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to treat: easy dessert bars! Seriously, these bars are a game changer when you need something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I whipped these up for a potluck, and everyone was asking for the recipe. The best part? They’re so simple to make and require just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! I love how the buttery graham cracker crust pairs perfectly with the gooey layers of sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll find yourself making them again and again for any occasion. So, let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that’s sure to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs – These give the bars their deliciously buttery crust. You can crush store-bought graham crackers or use a food processor for a fine crumb.
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted – This binds the crumbs together and adds richness. Just melt it in the microwave or on the stove, but don’t let it bubble!
- 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk – This is the star of the show! It creates a sweet, gooey layer that holds everything together. Use the regular kind for the best results.
- 1 cup of chocolate chips – I like semi-sweet, but use your favorite type! They melt beautifully and add that irresistible chocolatey flavor.
- 1/2 cup of shredded coconut – This adds texture and a hint of tropical flavor. Make sure it’s unsweetened if you prefer less sweetness.
- 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (optional) – I love adding pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch, but you can skip them or swap them out for your favorite nuts!
How to Prepare Easy Dessert Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheating it to 350°F (175°C) is super important because it ensures your bars bake evenly from the moment you pop them in. So, go ahead and set that temperature while you gather your ingredients. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when everything comes out perfectly baked!
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
Now, let’s make that delicious crust! In a mixing bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir it all together until the crumbs are completely coated and it resembles wet sand. Next, take a greased 8×8 inch baking pan and press the mixture firmly into the bottom. Make sure to pack it down well so it holds together when baked. This crust is the foundation of our bars, so give it some love!
Step 3: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Once your crust is ready, it’s time to add the magic ingredient: sweetened condensed milk! Pour it evenly over the crust, spreading it gently with a spatula if needed. This gooey layer is what brings everything together, creating that luscious texture we all love. Don’t be shy; make sure it covers the crust completely!
Step 4: Top It Off
Now for the fun part—let’s add those toppings! Sprinkle the chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and any nuts you’ve chosen evenly over the condensed milk layer. I like to mix it up and ensure every bar gets a bit of everything. It’s like a sweet surprise in every bite! Don’t worry if some of the toppings fall into the milk; it all melds beautifully while baking.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Pop your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the top is a lovely golden brown and the edges are slightly bubbly. Just keep an eye on them towards the end, as ovens can vary. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and trust me, you’ll want to dig in right away!
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Once they’re done baking, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. This step is essential for them to set up nicely! Once they’ve cooled (you can even pop them in the fridge to speed things up), use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles. For clean edges, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts. And there you have it—perfectly delicious easy dessert bars ready to be enjoyed!
Tips for Success
To ensure your easy dessert bars turn out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips! First, use a sharp knife when cutting the bars; this will give you those clean edges that look so appealing. If you find the knife sticking, just dip it in warm water and wipe it off between cuts. Also, make sure to let the bars cool completely before slicing—this helps them hold their shape. As for storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or pop them in the fridge for a week if you want them to last even longer. You can also freeze them for up to two months—just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. You’ll thank yourself later when you have a sweet treat ready to go!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. However, here’s a rough estimate for each serving of these easy dessert bars:
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 50mg
These delicious bars are a sweet treat, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet!
FAQ Section
Can I use different toppings?
Absolutely! One of the best things about these easy dessert bars is their versatility. Feel free to swap out the chocolate chips for butterscotch or white chocolate chips if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture, or even drizzle some caramel sauce on top for an extra sweet touch. The world is your oyster here, so get creative with your favorite flavors!
How should I store leftovers?
To keep your bars fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container. They can sit at room temperature for about three days, but if you want to extend their life, pop them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up. If you have lots left, you can freeze them for up to two months—just wrap each bar in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Perfect for those sweet cravings later on!
What’s the best way to cut the bars?
For beautifully cut bars, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean with a damp cloth between cuts. This helps prevent sticking and gives you those clean, professional-looking edges. If the bars are a bit crumbly, don’t stress! Just take your time and be gentle. Cutting them while they’re still slightly warm can also make it easier, but let them cool completely for the best texture. Enjoy your beautifully presented treats!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Simple: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can whip these up in no time!
- Deliciously Irresistible: The combination of buttery graham cracker crust, gooey condensed milk, and melty chocolate is pure bliss.
- Endless Customization: Feel free to mix and match toppings to suit your taste—there’s no wrong way to make these bars!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these bars are always a hit!
Serving Suggestions
These easy dessert bars are delightful on their own, but if you want to elevate your serving game, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess perfectly balances the sweet, chewy bars! For beverages, a cup of hot coffee or a chilled glass of milk complements the flavors beautifully. If you’re feeling fancy, serve them with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on the side for an extra indulgent touch. Trust me, your guests will be raving about this sweet experience!
Variations
If you’re looking to shake things up with your easy dessert bars, there are so many fun variations to try! For starters, you can switch up the nuts—how about using almonds or macadamia nuts for a different crunch? If you’re a fan of spices, adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the graham cracker crust can bring a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall. And don’t forget about the toppings! Instead of chocolate chips, you could use peanut butter chips or even chopped Snickers bars for a decadent twist. Feeling fruity? Toss in some dried cherries or even fresh berries before baking for a burst of flavor. The beauty of these bars is that they’re incredibly versatile, so let your imagination run wild and make them your own!
For more dessert ideas, check out this easy dessert recipe that will inspire your next baking adventure!
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Easy Dessert Bars: 6 Steps to Sweet Perfection!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy dessert bars that are simple to make and delicious to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup of chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup of shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking pan.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk over the crust.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and nuts evenly on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for clean edges.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- You can substitute nuts for your favorite toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: easy dessert bars
