Hershey 5 Layer Bars
Indulge in these rich, chewy 5 Layer Bars featuring chocolate, nuts, and sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for satisfying dessert cravings and sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan, melt butter or margarine in the oven.
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa, and sugar; sprinkle over melted butter.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crumb mixture.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips, then raisins, apricots, or marshmallows on top.
- Sprinkle nuts on top; press down firmly.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Cool; cover with foil.
- Allow to set at room temperature about 8 hours before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you're looking for a nut-free version, you can substitute the nuts with extra chocolate chips or a sprinkle of shredded coconut. Additionally, you can replace raisins with chopped dried apricots for a different taste. Be sure to press the layers down firmly to achieve the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Hershey 5 Layer Bars make a delightful dessert on their own, but they can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea as a sweet afternoon snack. They are perfect for potlucks or parties, and they complement savory dishes like Ted'S Favorite Pizza Dip beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars, placing parchment paper between layers, for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds for a gooey treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hershey 5 Layer Bars contains roughly 4 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 other types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any type of nuts you prefer, such as walnuts, pecans, or even almonds. Just make sure to chop them coarsely so they mix well with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs as a substitute for regular graham crackers. Many brands offer gluten-free options that will work just as well in this recipe, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delicious bars.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are lightly browned on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake them, as they will continue to set as they cool.
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).