7 Layer Cranberry Chocolate Magic Bars

Name: 7 Layer Cranberry Chocolate Magic Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup white chocolate chips; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

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A festive twist on a classic dessert, these 7 Layer Cranberry Chocolate Magic Bars are a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors. With a buttery graham cracker crust, layers of rich chocolate, dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans, these bars are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a special treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The tartness of the cranberries balances the sweetness, creating a unique flavor profile.

Quick and easy to assemble with minimal prep time.

Perfect for holidays or gifting, as the festive colors make them visually stunning.

Versatile: you can customize the layers to suit your taste.

A crowd-pleasing dessert that stores well for days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut

1/2 cup white chocolate chips

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

Directions

Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting. Lightly grease the parchment paper.

Make the Crust:
Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl until evenly mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a smooth, even layer.

Layer the Ingredients:
Evenly sprinkle the shredded coconut over the crust. Follow with layers of semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans.

Add the Condensed Milk:
Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top of the layered ingredients. Make sure it covers everything for a cohesive bar.

Bake:
Bake the bars for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center looks set.

Cool and Cut:
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out. Slice into squares or bars and serve.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 16 bars

Calories: 280 kcal per bar

Variations

Swap dried cranberries for dried cherries or raisins for a different flavor twist.

Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer chocolate flavor.

Substitute almonds or cashews for pecans or walnuts.

Add a drizzle of caramel or melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgence.

Replace the graham cracker crust with crushed gingerbread cookies for a spiced holiday version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing: Freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature, so simply let frozen bars thaw for a few hours before serving.

Related Recipes:

Vanilla Magic Custard Cake

FAQs

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free graham crackers to make the crust. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check labels to confirm.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries may release too much moisture and alter the texture. Dried cranberries are recommended for this recipe.

What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?

Unfortunately, sweetened condensed milk is a key ingredient for binding the layers. There isn’t a direct substitute for this recipe.

How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?

Lining the pan with parchment paper and leaving an overhang ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. These bars store well and can be made a day or two in advance. Just keep them in an airtight container.

Conclusion

These 7 Layer Cranberry Chocolate Magic Bars are a delightful, festive dessert perfect for sharing. The combination of rich chocolate, tart cranberries, and a buttery crust makes them a standout treat for any occasion. Whether for the holidays or a simple family dessert, these bars are sure to impress. Try them today and enjoy the magic in every bite.

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