why make this recipe
Easy Dessert Bars are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth with minimal effort. These bars require simple ingredients that you likely already have at home, making them an ideal last-minute treat for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. With layers of graham cracker crust, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolatey goodness, they are sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
how to make Easy Dessert Bars
Ingredients :
- 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well mixed.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the crust evenly.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips, nuts, and coconut on top of the milk layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
how to serve Easy Dessert Bars
Cut the Easy Dessert Bars into squares or rectangles and serve them on a nice platter. They pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness. Don’t forget to offer coffee or tea as a beverage option!
how to store Easy Dessert Bars
To store your Easy Dessert Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for longer freshness, which can extend their shelf life to about two weeks. If you want to keep them for an extended period, consider freezing them in a single layer and then transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
tips to make Easy Dessert Bars
- Make sure to press the crust down firmly to create a solid base. This helps keep the bars intact when cut.
- Experiment with different toppings! You can use peanut butter chips, caramel bits, or even swap out the nuts and coconut for other favorites.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting them—this will help prevent them from falling apart.
variation
You can easily customize these bars by adding different ingredients. Try using butterscotch chips instead of chocolate, or add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture. You can even make a s’mores version by incorporating mini marshmallows!
FAQs
Can I use another type of cracker for the crust?
Yes! You can use vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or any cookie of your choice for a different flavor.
Is it necessary to use sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, sweetened condensed milk is key to achieving the creamy texture and sweetness in these bars. However, you could experiment with other forms of sweeteners, keeping in mind that the texture may change.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or any gluten-free cookie crumbs as a substitute for the crust.
Easy Dessert Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well mixed.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the crust evenly.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips, nuts, and coconut on top of the milk layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are golden.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.