Almost Candy Bars(Easy 7 Layer Cookies)
Delicious seven-layer bars featuring chocolate, butterscotch, coconut, pecans, and a cake mix crust, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut margarine into the cake mix until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crust mixture evenly into a 15 x 10-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle both types of morsels, coconut, and nuts on top of the crust.
- Pour the entire can of condensed milk over the layered mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes until set and golden.
- Allow to cool before cutting into 48 bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate morsels or adding a dash of vanilla extract to the condensed milk. If you’re out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. Ensure the margarine is softened for easier mixing with the cake mix; this will help achieve the desired crumbly texture. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens may vary.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect for a sweet treat at gatherings or as an after-school snack. Pair them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside items like Summer Cheese Cake or Yummy Yogurt Cups for a variety of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Almost Candy Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. If freezing, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almost Candy Bars(Easy 7 Layer Cookies) contains roughly 30 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! You can experiment with any flavor of cake mix, such as chocolate or vanilla, to customize your Almost Candy Bars. Just keep in mind that different flavors may alter the overall taste slightly, so choose what you enjoy most.
What can I use instead of margarine?
If you prefer, you can substitute margarine with unsalted butter or a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil. Make sure to melt it if using coconut oil for a more even mixture with the cake mix. This will maintain the texture and flavor of the bars.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are set in the center and have a golden-brown color on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).