"Germs"(A.K.A. "Hello Dollies")
Germs, also known as Hello Dollies, are rich, no-bake layered bars with chocolate, coconut, nuts, and a buttery graham cracker crust, perfect for parties or quick treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in an 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Spread graham cracker crumbs evenly over the melted margarine.
- Sprinkle coconut, chocolate chips, and chopped nuts over the crumbs.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over all the ingredients.
- Do not stir the mixture.
- Place the pan in a 350°F oven and cook for 30 minutes.
- Do not overcook.
- Cool the bars and then cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds. You can also try different types of chocolate chips, like dark or white chocolate, to create variations of this recipe. Ensure not to stir the mixture after pouring the sweetened condensed milk, as this helps achieve the perfect layered bars.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect as a sweet snack or dessert. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful combination, or pair with a cup of coffee for a cozy treat. They can also be enjoyed as part of a dessert platter with other favorites like Evelyn'S Creamy Yogurt Pie or Myra'S Peanut Butter Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their freshness, you can also refrigerate them for a longer shelf life, up to two weeks. If you want to reheat them, place a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm them slightly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Germs"(A.K.A. "Hello Dollies") contains roughly 1325 calories, with 17g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 108g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 513mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any type of nut you prefer or have on hand, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Just chop them finely before adding to the mixture. If you're looking for a nut-free option, consider using seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
Is there a vegan alternative for sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, you can use a vegan sweetened condensed milk made from coconut or almond milk. These alternatives work well in this recipe, providing the same sweet and creamy texture without the dairy. Make sure to adjust the sweetness if necessary, as some brands may vary.
Can I freeze these bars for later?
Yes, these bars freeze well! After cutting them into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
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).