These 7 layer bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with layers of chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts, creating a deliciously sweet treat. Perfect for parties or as a delightful dessert, they are easy to make and sure to please any crowd.
The recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Decadent Layers of Flavor
The allure of 7 layer bars lies in their delightful combination of textures and flavors.
With a golden shortbread crust serving as the foundation, these treats are layered with chocolate chips, butterscotch, shredded coconut, and crunchy nuts.
Each bite offers a satisfying chewiness, complemented by the sweetness of the condensed milk that binds everything together.
Creating the Perfect Shortbread Crust
The shortbread crust is a key component of these bars, providing a buttery base that enhances the overall experience.
To achieve the perfect crust, it’s essential to cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
This process helps to incorporate air, resulting in a tender texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich toppings.
Layering for Success
Once the crust is prepared and pressed into the baking pan, the fun begins with layering.
Start by evenly distributing the chocolate and butterscotch chips, followed by the shredded coconut and chopped nuts.
This method ensures that every square of the finished bars is packed with flavor, making each piece a delightful surprise.
Baking to Golden Perfection
Baking the bars requires careful attention to time and temperature.
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and keep an eye on the edges as they turn golden brown.
The center should be set but still slightly soft, as it will firm up as the bars cool.
Cooling and Cutting
Patience is key when it comes to cooling the bars.
Allow them to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
This step helps maintain the structure of the layers, ensuring that each piece holds together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions and Enjoyment
These 7 layer bars are perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply as a sweet treat at home.
Serve them on a rustic wooden platter to complement their homemade charm.
With their rich layers and inviting appearance, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, leaving everyone wanting more.
Decadent 7 Layer Bars with Shortbread Crust
This recipe yields rich and chewy 7 layer bars with a shortbread base, topped with layers of chocolate, butterscotch, coconut, and nuts. The bars take about 45 minutes to prepare and bake, making them a quick and satisfying dessert option.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Shortbread Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Layer the Ingredients: Sprinkle the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts evenly over the crust. Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the top, ensuring it covers all the layers.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 24 bars
- Calories: 200kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 28g