Marti'S Dessert Bars
Sweet and crunchy dessert bars featuring graham crackers, walnuts, coconut, chocolate and butterscotch, baked to golden perfection — a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs evenly over the melted butter.
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts, chocolate bits, butterscotch bits, and coconut on top.
- Drizzle Eagle Brand milk all over the layered ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can substitute pecans or almonds for walnuts if preferred. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. To enhance the texture, try mixing in some crushed pretzels for a salty contrast. Make sure to watch the bars closely while baking to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
These dessert bars are delicious on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel can elevate the presentation. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside a slice of Nana'S Special Pie for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the dessert bars to cool completely, then cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer them warm, but be careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marti'S Dessert Bars contains roughly 690 calories, with 6g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), and protein (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 make Marti's Dessert Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They tend to taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld overnight.
What can I use instead of Eagle Brand milk?
If you don't have Eagle Brand milk, you can make a simple substitute using equal parts of sweetened condensed milk and a splash of regular milk. Alternatively, you can use homemade sweetened condensed milk for a more natural option.
How do I know when the dessert bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they turn a golden brown color and are bubbly around the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as they can become dry.
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).