Seven Layer Bars

Prep: 10 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Delightful seven-layer bars combine rich chocolate, coconut, nuts, and creamy condensed milk for a sweet, crunchy treat perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a comforting dessert.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1/4 lb. butter
  • 2 c. graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 c. coconut flakes (sweetened)
  • 12 oz. chocolate chips
  • 12 oz. peanut butter chips
  • 12 oz. butterscotch chips
  • 12 oz. walnuts, chopped
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Melt butter in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
  3. Add and pack the graham cracker crumbs evenly over the melted butter.
  4. Layer the coconut flakes, chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, butterscotch chips, and chopped walnuts in that order over the graham cracker crust.
  5. Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the top starts to brown.
  7. Allow to cool slightly before cutting while still warm.
  8. Remove from the pan once cooled and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, try using unsweetened coconut flakes or adding a layer of chopped chocolate to enhance the texture. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or substitute with sunflower seeds. Make sure to pack the graham cracker crumbs tightly for a sturdy base. For a twist, consider adding a layer of crushed pretzels to introduce a salty contrast, similar to the balance found in recipes like Graham Cracker Coconut Cake.

Serving Suggestions

These Seven Layer Bars are delightful on their own, but they can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. They pair beautifully with coffee or a glass of cold milk. Consider them as a sweet ending to a family meal or a treat during gatherings, complementing dishes like Ogre Sandwich or even as a snack alongside English Silk Pie.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate the bars, where they will last for up to two weeks. If you want to reheat them, warm them gently in the microwave for about 5-10 seconds to soften without melting the chocolate and butterscotch layers.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Seven Layer Bars contains roughly 771 calories, with 14g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

771 kcal 39% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.9g 28% DV
Total Fat 71.7g 92% DV
Carbs 26.1g 9% DV
Fiber 4.9g 18% DV
Sugar 14.3g 29% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 144.1mg 6% DV
Potassium 492.8mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 104.4mg 35% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 7.3mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 94.5mg 7% DV
Iron 2.2mg 12% DV
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten Peanut Tree nuts

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 these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! Seven Layer Bars can be made a day in advance. Just allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This actually helps the flavors meld together, making them even more delicious when served the next day.

What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

If you need a substitute for sweetened condensed milk, you can use coconut cream mixed with sugar or homemade evaporated milk combined with sugar. However, this may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust the sweetness to your preference.

Can I use different types of chips?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match different types of chips according to your taste. White chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips, or even flavored chips like mint can all work well. Just keep the total volume similar to maintain the layers.

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).

American recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →