Magic Cookie Bars from Eagle Brand

This post may include affiliate links — learn more here .

Introduction

Magic Cookie Bars from Eagle Brand are the ultimate treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. These bars bring together a rich combination of ingredients—chocolate chips, coconut, nuts, and a sweetened condensed milk layer—creating a dessert that’s both decadent and easy to make. The layers of gooey sweetness, crunch, and richness meld into one irresistible bite. These bars aren’t just a dessert; they’re a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

I first made Magic Cookie Bars for a family gathering, and they were an instant hit. The smell of coconut and chocolate filling the house was enough to get everyone excited, and when they came out of the oven, they were devoured in no time. The condensed milk acts as the glue that holds everything together, making each bite as sticky and indulgent as the last. It’s a treat that combines nostalgic flavors with a touch of novelty, and it always leaves you wanting more.

Magic Cookie Bars are perfect for those times when you want a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dessert. They’re great for holidays, parties, or just as a treat to have on hand. Whether served at room temperature or chilled, they remain wonderfully gooey and satisfying. If you’re looking for a dessert that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort, these bars are definitely the one to make!

Perfect for:

• Quick dessert cravings
• Holiday baking
• Potlucks and picnics
• Kid-friendly treats
• Parties and gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Magic Cookie Bars from Eagle Brand will become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Deliciously Layered: The combination of sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts makes for a perfect balance of flavors in each bite.
• No-Bake Simplicity: These bars come together with minimal effort and no oven time.
• Customizable: You can adjust the toppings to suit your tastes or dietary preferences, making them versatile for different occasions.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving a large group or just enjoying them at home, these bars are always a hit with both kids and adults.
• Quick to Make: You’ll have a batch ready to go in just 10 minutes of prep time, making them ideal for last-minute cravings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 12-16 bars
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

To make Magic Cookie Bars from Eagle Brand, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ⅓ cup butter, melted
• 1 can (14 oz) Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
• 1 cup butterscotch chips (optional)
• Pinch of salt (optional, for enhanced flavor)

Ingredient Highlights

• Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk: The secret ingredient that adds a rich, creamy sweetness to the bars, binding all the ingredients together.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the perfect buttery base for the bars and provide a slightly crunchy texture.
• Chocolate Chips and Butterscotch Chips: These add gooey, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness with every bite.
• Shredded Coconut: Coconut brings a chewy texture and tropical flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• Nuts: Walnuts or pecans provide a delightful crunch and a nutty contrast to the sweetness.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Magic Cookie Bars from Eagle Brand:

Prepare the Base:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or line with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly coated in butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.

Layer the Ingredients:

3. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour the entire can of Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust, spreading it out with a spatula.
4. Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the chocolate chips, coconut, and chopped nuts evenly over the condensed milk. If you’re using butterscotch chips, sprinkle them on top as well.

Bake the Bars:

5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. You may notice the sweetened condensed milk bubbling up along the edges.
6. Cool: Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes. Then, let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting them into squares.

Serve:

7. Cut and Serve: Once cooled, cut into 12-16 squares and enjoy! You can serve them as they are or drizzle with a bit of chocolate syrup for extra indulgence.

How to Serve

Magic Cookie Bars from Eagle Brand are perfect for any occasion. Here are a few serving ideas:

• As a Dessert: Serve them after dinner or with a cup of coffee for a delightful treat.
• For Parties: These bars are easy to slice into bite-sized pieces and serve on a platter at parties or gatherings.
• With Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on top for a decadent dessert.
• Packaged as Gifts: These bars make great homemade gifts. Just package them in a nice box or jar and tie with a ribbon for a thoughtful present.

Additional Tips

For the best Magic Cookie Bars from Eagle Brand, consider these tips:

• Use a 9×13-inch Pan: This is the ideal size for the perfect layer thickness.
• Chill the Bars: For cleaner cuts, chill the bars in the refrigerator for 30 minutes after they’ve cooled to room temperature.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake, as they can burn quickly once the edges are golden brown.
• Mix Up the Nuts: Try different nuts, such as almonds or macadamia nuts, for a unique flavor.
• Store Properly: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Recipe Variations

Here are 8 variations to customize your Magic Cookie Bars from Eagle Brand:

1. Peanut Butter Magic Bars: Drizzle peanut butter over the condensed milk before adding the toppings for a peanut butter twist.
2. Dark Chocolate Version: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a richer flavor.
3. Mint Chocolate Magic Bars: Swap chocolate chips for mint chocolate chips for a refreshing minty flavor.
4. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra layer of sweetness.
5. Dried Fruit Version: Add chopped dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added texture and flavor.
6. Coconut-Free Version: If you don’t like coconut, simply omit it and use more chocolate chips or nuts.
7. Gluten-Free Magic Bars: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make these bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
8. Nut-Free Version: Omit the nuts for a nut-free variation, or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze Magic Cookie Bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container before freezing. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, store them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Special Equipment

Here are some items that make preparing Magic Cookie Bars from Eagle Brand easier:

1. 9×13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for making these bars with a nice even layer.
2. Mixing Bowl: Use a bowl to mix the graham cracker crumbs and butter for the crust.
3. Spatula: Great for spreading the sweetened condensed milk and topping the bars.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure you use the right amounts of ingredients.
5. Wire Rack: Ideal for cooling the bars evenly after baking.
6. Parchment Paper or Non-stick Spray: Prevents the bars from sticking to the pan.
7. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting the bars into squares easier.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different brand of sweetened condensed milk?
   Yes, any sweetened condensed milk will work, but Eagle Brand is recommended for its rich, creamy consistency.
2. Can I use a different type of crust?
   If you prefer, you can use a shortbread or cookie crust instead of graham cracker crumbs.
3. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, but make sure to adjust the baking time.
4. Do I have to use nuts?
   No, you can skip the nuts or substitute with more chocolate chips or coconut.
5. Can I make these bars in advance?
   Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.
6. Can I make Magic Cookie Bars without baking?
   Traditional Magic Cookie Bars require baking, but you could try making a no-bake version by refrigerating the bars after layering the ingredients, though the texture may differ.
7. How do I cut the bars evenly? Use a sharp knife and let the bars cool completely before cutting for clean slices.
8. Can I add more chocolate chips?
   Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.

Conclusion

Magic Cookie Bars from Eagle Brand are an irresistible treat that brings together the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and gooey goodness in every bite. The layers of graham cracker crust, creamy sweetened condensed milk, coconut, chocolate chips, and nuts create a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

What makes Magic Cookie Bars truly magical is their simplicity—just a few ingredients come together to form a decadent, comforting dessert that feels like a true indulgence. They’re easy to prepare, making them ideal for both seasoned bakers and those who are just starting out.

Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a casual treat at home, these bars will become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media—I can’t wait to see how you enjoy this delicious recipe! Happy baking!