7-Layer Magic Bars

Featured in: Sweet Simple Treats

These 7-layer bars combine graham cracker crust with layers of chocolate chips, butterscotch, shredded coconut, and nuts. Sweetened condensed milk binds the layers into a chewy texture after baking. Once cooled, a luscious caramel sauce with flaky sea salt is drizzled on top, enhancing the sweet and salty notes. The bars are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.

For added depth, consider toasting the coconut and nuts beforehand. Variations may include swapping nuts to suit preferences. Bars keep well at room temperature for several days and pair wonderfully with coffee or dessert wine.

Updated on Fri, 21 Nov 2025 14:04:00 GMT
Golden-brown 7-Layer Magic Bars with sea salt caramel drizzle; a decadent treat awaiting. Pin Recipe
Golden-brown 7-Layer Magic Bars with sea salt caramel drizzle; a decadent treat awaiting. | fordishes.com

Decadent, chewy dessert bars layered with chocolate, butterscotch, coconut, and nuts, finished with a luscious sea salt caramel drizzle for the ultimate sweet-and-salty treat.

I love making these bars for gatherings because they always impress and disappear fast.

Ingredients

  • Base: 1 1/2 cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter melted
  • Layers: 1 cup (170 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 cup (170 g) butterscotch chips, 1 cup (90 g) sweetened shredded coconut, 1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans or walnuts, 1 (14 oz/400 ml) can sweetened condensed milk
  • Caramel Drizzle: 1/2 cup (120 ml) store-bought caramel sauce or homemade caramel sauce, 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Instructions

Prepare pan:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Make crust:
In a medium bowl combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press mixture firmly into bottom of prepared pan to form an even crust.
Layer ingredients:
Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over crust followed by butterscotch chips coconut and chopped nuts.
Add condensed milk:
Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire surface making sure to cover all layers.
Bake bars:
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until edges are golden brown and center is set. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
Apply drizzle and salt:
Once cooled drizzle caramel sauce over bars and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Serve:
Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Delicious, gooey 7-Layer Magic Bars topped with a sea salt caramel swirl, ready to eat. Pin Recipe
Delicious, gooey 7-Layer Magic Bars topped with a sea salt caramel swirl, ready to eat. | fordishes.com

My family gathers around these bars during holidays making every moment sweeter.

Notes

For a richer flavor toast the coconut and nuts before layering. Substitute walnuts with almonds or cashews if desired. Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine.

Required Tools

9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan Mixing bowls Measuring cups and spoons Parchment paper Spatula

Allergen Information

Contains dairy gluten (unless using gluten-free graham crackers) tree nuts coconut and soy (in chocolate and butterscotch chips). Always check labels for potential hidden allergens.

Close-up of freshly baked 7-Layer Magic Bars, boasting a perfect caramel drizzle and salt. Pin Recipe
Close-up of freshly baked 7-Layer Magic Bars, boasting a perfect caramel drizzle and salt. | fordishes.com

These bars combine ease and flavor making them an unforgettable dessert every time.

Recipe FAQs

What makes these bars chewy?

The sweetened condensed milk binds the layered ingredients during baking, creating a moist and chewy texture.

Can I use different nuts in the bars?

Yes, walnuts can be substituted with almonds, cashews, or other preferred nuts for varied flavors and textures.

How do I achieve the best caramel drizzle?

Use a smooth store-bought caramel or homemade caramel sauce, drizzled evenly and finished with flaky sea salt for balance.

Is it better to toast the coconut and nuts?

Toasting adds a richer, deeper flavor and a slight crunch, enhancing the overall taste of the bars.

How should I store these bars?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days to maintain freshness and texture.

What pan size is recommended for these bars?

A 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan ensures even baking and proper thickness of the bars.

7-Layer Magic Bars

Chewy bars with chocolate, butterscotch, coconut, nuts, and caramel drizzle offering a sweet-salty flavor balance.

Prep Duration
20 mins
Cooking Duration
30 mins
Complete Time
50 mins
Recipe by Fordishes Ava Reynolds


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 16 Number of Servings

Diet Details Vegetarian Option

Ingredient List

Base

01 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Layers

01 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
02 1 cup butterscotch chips
03 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
04 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
05 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

Caramel Drizzle

01 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade caramel sauce
02 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Directions

Step 01

Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 02

Form crust: Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create an even crust.

Step 03

Layer ingredients: Evenly sprinkle chocolate chips over the crust, followed by butterscotch chips, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts.

Step 04

Add condensed milk: Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over all layers to cover completely.

Step 05

Bake: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until edges are golden brown and center is set. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.

Step 06

Apply caramel drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over cooled bars and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

Step 07

Serve: Lift bars using parchment paper overhang, cut into 16 squares, and serve.

Needed Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Parchment paper
  • Spatula

Allergy Info

Double-check ingredients for allergens and speak with a healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Contains dairy, gluten (unless gluten-free crackers used), tree nuts, coconut, and soy.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

For informational use only—doesn't replace personalized medical direction.
  • Calories: 320
  • Fats: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Proteins: 4 g