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Gooey Seven Layer Bars Recipe Easy Perfect Toasted Coconut Walnuts Dessert

gooey seven layer bars - featured image

These gooey seven layer bars combine toasted coconut, crunchy walnuts, and melted chocolate for a nostalgic, easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 1012 full sheets, crushed fine)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut, toasted
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
  • 1 cup butterscotch chips or white chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Toast the shredded coconut on a rimmed baking sheet for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden brown and fragrant. Toast the chopped walnuts separately for 8-10 minutes. Let both cool completely.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  4. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan to create an even layer.
  5. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
  6. Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the warm crust without spreading it.
  7. Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the condensed milk layer, then add toasted coconut and toasted walnuts. If using, sprinkle butterscotch or white chocolate chips on top last.
  8. Bake the bars at 325°F (160°C) for 25-30 minutes until edges are lightly golden and center is set but still gooey.
  9. Cool completely on a wire rack. Optionally, chill in the fridge for about an hour to speed up cooling.
  10. Slice into 12 or 16 squares using a sharp knife, cleaning the knife between cuts for neat edges.

Notes

Toast coconut and walnuts separately to avoid burning. Press crust firmly to prevent crumbling. Cool bars completely before slicing for clean cuts. Use quality chocolate chips for best melting and flavor. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil and use a coconut milk-based condensed milk alternative. For gluten-free, use almond flour crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: seven layer bars, gooey bars, toasted coconut, walnuts, easy dessert, chocolate bars, potluck dessert, family recipe