Fantastic Bars
Delicious layered dessert bars featuring a buttery nut crust, creamy cheese filling, and chocolate pudding topping, perfect for gatherings and sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine and mix in flour and chopped nuts.
- Press the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes; then cool.
- Mix confectioners sugar, softened cream cheese, and 1 cup of Cool Whip until smooth.
- Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
- Mix the pudding mixes with 3 cups of milk until thickened.
- Spread the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Let the dessert stand until firm.
- Top with the remaining Cool Whip and garnish with finely chopped nuts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute the finely chopped nut meats with crushed graham crackers or oats. Ensure the margarine is well-melted before mixing it with the flour for a smooth crust. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. This dessert can also be made with different flavored pudding mixes, like vanilla or banana, for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Fantastic Bars chilled for the best texture. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries. These bars are perfect for potlucks or as a sweet ending to any meal, and they complement American recipes quite well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep the crust from becoming soggy, it's best to keep the Cool Whip topping separate until serving. If you need to reheat, gently warm individual portions in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, but it's best enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fantastic Bars contains roughly 728 calories, with 8g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A.
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 regular cream instead of Cool Whip?
Yes, you can use whipped cream instead of Cool Whip if you prefer a homemade touch. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form, and fold it into the cream cheese mixture. This will give the bars a fresher taste and a light texture.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you're looking for a substitute for margarine, you can use unsalted butter or coconut oil. Both will work well in the crust, but be mindful that coconut oil may impart a slight coconut flavor. For a dairy-free option, vegan margarine is also a great choice.
How long do these bars need to set?
After assembling the layers, let the Fantastic Bars sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow them to firm up properly. For best results, you can prepare them a day in advance and let them chill overnight, making them even easier to slice and serve.
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).