Cherry Magic Cookie Bars are a sweet treat packed with layers of yummy goodness! With a base of graham crackers, chocolate chips, and sweet cherries, every bite is a little piece of heaven.
These bars are super easy to make, which is a win in my book! Just layer the ingredients and pop them in the oven—voila! Perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. Who can resist that cherry-chocolate combo? 🍒🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: They form the base of these bars. If you run out, you can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies instead. They’ll also give a nice flavor!
Unsalted Butter: This keeps the crust from being too salty. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute!
Sweetened Condensed Milk: It adds sweetness and helps bind the layers together. If you need a dairy-free option, use canned coconut milk mixed with a bit of brown sugar for sweetness.
Shredded Coconut: Sweetened coconut gives these bars a chewy texture. If you prefer, use unsweetened shredded coconut for a less sugary flavor, or even swap it for oatmeal for a different twist.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet is my go-to, but dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate are great substitutes depending on your preference.
Maraschino Cherries: These add sweetness and color. If you’re looking for a fresh option, consider using fresh cherries or frozen cherries, but be sure to drain them well.
Nuts: They add crunch, but you can totally omit them if you want to keep it nut-free. Sunflower seeds could be a good crunchy alternative!
How Do I Get the Perfect Layering for My Cookie Bars?
Layering is key to getting that beautiful look and taste! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a firm graham cracker crust by pressing it evenly into the pan using the bottom of a measuring cup for even pressure.
- Spread the sweetened condensed milk to cover all edges without leaving gaps. This helps to bind everything together.
- When adding the coconut and chocolate chips, make sure they’re spread out evenly for balanced flavors in each bite.
- Gently press down the cherries into the chocolate layer to ensure they hold better during baking.
Remember, patience in layering brings out the best in flavors and cuts beautifully once cool!
Cherry Magic Cookie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets, crushed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking. After baking, let them cool for a bit before slicing into squares, so altogether you’re looking at about an hour before they are ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a 9×13-inch baking pan ready for action by lining it with parchment paper, or just give it a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Stir gently until it’s well mixed, then press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will be the yummy base for your cookie bars!
3. Layer the Goodies:
Next, pour the sweetened condensed milk all over your graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly. Be sure to cover all the edges!
Now sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the condensed milk—this will add that delicious chewy texture. After that, pour the chocolate chips on top of the coconut.
4. Add the Cherries:
Take your chopped maraschino cherries and scatter them over the chocolate chips, gently pressing them down a little. This helps them stick and makes sure each bite has that sweet cherry flavor!
5. Optional Nuts & Baking:
If you’d like to add some crunch, sprinkle the chopped nuts on top. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the pan in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the bars out of the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. When they’re cool, slice them into squares and get ready to enjoy the delightful layers of sweet cherries, chocolate, coconut, and crunchy graham crust!
Everyone will love these Cherry Magic Cookie Bars—perfect for any occasion! Enjoy your delicious treat!
Can I Use Fresh Cherries Instead of Maraschino Cherries?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be a delicious substitute. Just make sure to pit and chop them, and you may want to slightly decrease the amount since they are less sweet than maraschino cherries.
Can I Make These Cookie Bars Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make the bars gluten-free, simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or a gluten-free cookie alternative. They’ll be just as tasty!
How Do I Store Leftover Cookie Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Toppings or Mix-ins?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can add nuts, like almonds or pecans, or even switch up the types of chocolate chips—try butterscotch or white chocolate chips for a fun twist!
