There’s just something magical about Seven Layer Bars. Maybe it’s the way the sweetened condensed milk seeps into every bite, or the way the coconut toasts up golden and crisp. Or maybe it’s because you don’t need a mixer, fancy tools, or even a bowl. Just layer and bake. That’s it.

Whether you know them as Magic Cookie Bars, Hello Dollies, or just “those gooey squares Grandma made,” this easy Seven Layer Bars recipe is the nostalgic treat we all deserve.

And trust me once you make them, they’ll become your go to for potlucks, bake sales, or “I just want something sweet” moments.

Seven Layer Bars Recipe

What Are Seven Layer Bars?

Seven layer bars are basically dessert alchemy. You start with a graham cracker crust, then add layers of chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts all bound together with sweetened condensed milk.

They bake into rich, chewy, golden bars that are insanely addictive (in the best way).

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Seven Layer Bars

Just 7 ingredients and you probably have most of them in your pantry already.

1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full crackers)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup butterscotch chips (optional but so good)
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
¾ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

Ingredients for easy seven layer bars including coconut and chips.

How to Make Seven Layer Bars (Step-by-Step)

Ready? Let’s do it. No mixer, no fuss just layering and baking.

Prep the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13″ pan with parchment paper and lightly spray it.
Make the crust: Mix melted butter and graham cracker crumbs. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan.
Layer the goodies: In this order chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, chopped nuts, then shredded coconut.
Pour condensed milk: Drizzle evenly over everything.
Bake: 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Cool completely: This is key! Once cool, lift out using parchment, then slice into squares.

Pro Tips for Perfect Magic Bars

Use parchment paper with overhang it makes lifting & slicing super easy.
Cool completely before cutting. They firm up as they sit!
Want cleaner cuts? Chill in the fridge for 30–60 mins before slicing with a sharp knife.

Sliced seven layer bar showing condensed milk and chocolate layers

Variations & Swaps

You can totally make these your own!

Nut-free: Leave out the nuts or swap with sunflower seeds.
Coconut-free: Skip the coconut and add crushed pretzels or more chips.
Extra gooey: Add ¼ cup peanut butter to the crust or swirl it into the condensed milk.
Festive touch: Add mini M&Ms or white chocolate for holidays!

How to Store or Freeze

Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Fridge: Keeps well for up to 10 days (great for prepping ahead!)
Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or microwave 15 seconds.

Nutrition Facts (Per Bar)
Calories	310 kcal
Carbohydrates	40 g
Dietary Fiber	2 g
Sugars	28 g
Protein	4 g
Total Fat	16 g
Saturated Fat	9 g
Cholesterol	40 mg
Sodium	120 mg
Potassium	90 mg
Calcium	20 mg
Iron	1 mg

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I make seven layer bars without coconut?

Yes! You can omit the coconut entirely or replace it with crushed pretzels, mini marshmallows, or even more chocolate chips.

Can I freeze magic bars?

Absolutely. Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature or warm up for 15 seconds in the microwave.

Why are they called seven layer bars?

Because there are traditionally seven ingredients: crust, butter, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, coconut, nuts, and sweetened condensed milk.