Stir-Me-Nots
A rich, layered dessert bar featuring graham cracker crust, coconut, chocolate, and walnuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for gatherings or casual treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine; pour into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the margarine, then add shredded coconut, and then semi-sweet chocolate pieces.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over all the ingredients.
- Top with chopped walnuts.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also swap out the walnuts for pecans or almonds if desired. To add a hint of spice, a teaspoon of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile. Make sure to evenly distribute the sweetened condensed milk for even moisture throughout the dish. For a more decadent treat, try adding a layer of peanut butter between the chocolate and the condensed milk.
Serving Suggestions
Cut into squares and serve as a delightful dessert or snack. These bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. They also work great alongside a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for a cozy gathering. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a platter with Chocolate Cheese Cups.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of the chocolate and coconut.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stir-Me-Nots contains roughly 181 calories, with 2g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 18g 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 different types of chocolate for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute semi-sweet chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter bar, or dark chocolate for a more intense flavor. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference, as different chocolates have varying sweetness levels.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or an alternative like crushed gluten-free cookies. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious treat while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
Can I add other ingredients to the Stir-Me-Nots?
Definitely! You can incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture. Additionally, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the flavors, or substitute some of the walnuts with your favorite nuts.
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).