Cookie Bars
Cookie bars are rich, chocolatey treats packed with nuts, coconut, and butterscotch chips. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or sharing at gatherings, they combine a crispy crust with a gooey topping, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa, sugar, and margarine in a bowl.
- Press the mixture firmly on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Pour Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust.
- Top evenly with nuts, butterscotch chips, chocolate chips, flaked coconut, and remaining ingredients in the order listed.
- Press down firmly to compact the toppings.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until lightly browned.
- Allow to cool completely; chill thoroughly if desired.
- Cut into bars and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the graham cracker crust mixture. You can also substitute the nuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the sugar by half a cup. To enhance the chocolate flavor, try using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. This recipe is similar to No-Fuss Bar Cookies, making it an easy treat to whip up.
Serving Suggestions
These cookie bars are perfect for parties and can be served with a scoop of ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent treat. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a festive touch, sprinkle some extra flaked coconut on top before serving. Enjoy them as a delightful dessert after a hearty meal or alongside a slice of Lorraine Priest's Peanut Butter Bonbon.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. For best results when reheating, microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds to soften without drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cookie Bars contains roughly 495 calories, with 8g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value), and potassium (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips based on your preference. Mixing different types of chips can also create a unique flavor profile in your cookie bars.
Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?
Yes, these cookie bars are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare and bake them a day in advance, then store them in an airtight container. Just make sure they cool completely before storing to maintain their texture.
What can I use instead of margarine?
If you prefer, you can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer taste. Coconut oil is another great alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor may slightly change with different fats.
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).