Hello Dolly Bars Recipe

Welcome to a truly delightful and incredibly easy baking adventure! This Hello Dolly Bars Recipe is a timeless classic, known for its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. You might also hear these delightful treats called Magic Cookies or Seven-Layer Bars, a testament to their simple, layered construction. Get ready to bake a batch of these gooey, rich, and utterly satisfying dessert bars today.

Why You’ll Love This Hello Dolly Bars Recipe

This recipe is a favorite for many fantastic reasons, making it perfect for busy parents and beginner bakers.

• Easy to Assemble: You simply layer ingredients in a pan, no fancy techniques required.
• Gooey, Rich, and Flavorful: Each bite delivers a decadent blend of chocolate, nuts, and coconut, all held together by creamy sweetened condensed milk.
• Customizable: Easily swap out ingredients to match your personal taste or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for holidays, potlucks, or a quick sweet craving, these bars are always a hit.
• Satisfyingly Chewy: Enjoy the amazing combination of crisp crust, chewy toppings, and a beautifully caramelized texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your batch of delicious Hello Dolly Bars. Precision in measurements ensures the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.

• 16 tablespoons (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups (about a 13 1/2 ounce box) graham cracker crumbs
• 2 cups (about 12 ounces) dark or semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 cups (about 8 ounces) pecans, roughly chopped
• 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut flake
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

Notes & Substitutions

Sweetened shredded coconut is crucial here; it provides both sweetness and moisture. If you only have unsweetened coconut, you might add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the crust, but the overall sweetness will be slightly less. Feel free to use other nuts like chopped walnuts or cashews instead of pecans for a different flavor profile. For the chips, try butterscotch, white chocolate, or a mix of several types. Ensure your nuts are roughly chopped, not finely ground, for a satisfying texture. Experiment with different chocolate chips like butterscotch chips, white chocolate chips, or a combination for unique flavors.

Equipment

You won’t need many specialized tools for this easy Hello Dolly Bars Recipe. Just a few kitchen essentials will do the trick.

• A standard 13×9-inch baking dish is essential for the correct bar thickness.
• Parchment paper makes for super easy removal and cleanup.
• You’ll also need a mixing bowl, measuring cups, and a spatula.

Instructions

Creating this Hello Dolly Bars Recipe is a straightforward process, ideal for beginners. Follow these steps carefully for the best results.

1. Prepare Baking Dish: Begin by adjusting your oven rack to the middle position. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This parchment paper sling will make it much easier to lift the finished bars out later.
2. Make Crust: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter and graham cracker crumbs. Stir the ingredients together thoroughly with a spatula or spoon until the crumbs are evenly moistened and well combined. This forms the flavorful base for your dessert bars.
3. Press Crust: Transfer the graham cracker mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon or your clean hands to firmly and evenly press the mixture across the entire bottom of the pan. A solid, compact crust is key to holding the layers together.
4. Layer Toppings: Now, it is time to build the layers of flavor. Evenly spread the dark or semisweet chocolate chips over the pressed graham cracker crust. Ensure they cover the surface from edge to edge for consistent distribution in every bite.
5. Add Pecans: Follow the chocolate chips with an even layer of roughly chopped pecans. Spread them out across the chocolate chips, creating a nutty, crunchy layer. This adds wonderful texture and a savory balance to the sweetness.
6. Add Coconut: Next, sprinkle the sweetened shredded coconut flakes over the pecans. Aim for an even layer that covers the entire surface. The coconut will toast beautifully in the oven, adding another dimension of flavor and chewiness to your Hello Dolly bars.
7. Drizzle Milk: Carefully pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over all the layered toppings. Make sure the milk coats all the ingredients, especially around the edges. This liquid gold binds all the layers together and creates that signature gooey texture.
8. Bake Bars: Place the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake the bars for about 30 minutes, or until any visible crust edges are golden brown and the coconut topping has begun to toast to a lovely golden color. The edges should look set, but the center might still be slightly soft.
9. Cool Completely: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature on a wire rack. This step is crucial for allowing the layers to set properly and for achieving the best texture. Resist the urge to cut them warm!
10. Chill Bars: For the cleanest cuts and a firmer, more stable bar, transfer the cooled Hello Dolly bars to the refrigerator. Chill them for at least one hour before attempting to cut them. Chilling solidifies the condensed milk and butter, making slicing much easier.
11. Cut and Serve: Once thoroughly chilled, lift the entire slab of bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into 12 even pieces. Serve these delectable treats and enjoy!

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Achieving the perfect Hello Dolly bars is simple with a few helpful hints.

• Prevent Gooey Mess: Always chill your bars for at least an hour, or even two, before cutting. This solidifies the gooey layers, allowing for neat, clean slices without sticky edges.
• Toasted Coconut: For an even golden-brown coconut topping, ensure the flakes are spread in an even layer. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as they can go from golden to burnt quickly.
• Baking Evenly: Press your graham cracker crust firmly and uniformly into the pan. This prevents soft spots and ensures the base bakes consistently, providing a stable foundation for your Hello Dolly Bars.
• Golden Crust: Watch for visual cues during baking; a visibly golden brown crust along the edges indicates it’s cooked through. The center might still look slightly bubbly, but it will firm up as it cools.

Serving, Storage, and Variations

These versatile bars are perfect for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Magic Bars chilled for the best texture and firmness. They make an excellent dessert after any meal or a delightful afternoon snack. A simple square is all you need to satisfy a sweet craving.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Hello Dolly bars in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, or for extended freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Variations

• Nutty Alternatives: Swap pecans for chopped walnuts, cashews, or sliced almonds to change the nutty flavor.
• Chocolate Mix-ins: Experiment with different chocolate chips like butterscotch chips, white chocolate chips, or a combination for unique flavors.
• Add Dried Fruits: For a touch of tartness and chewiness, sprinkle in some dried cranberries or finely chopped dried apricots.
• Spiced Version: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg mixed into the graham cracker crust can add a warm, comforting twist to this classic Hello Dolly Bars Recipe.

Nutrition Information

(Nutrition facts are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)

Nutrient	Amount Per 1 Bar
Calories	420-480
Total Fat	25-30g
Saturated Fat	15-20g
Cholesterol	45-60mg
Sodium	120-150mg
Total Carbs	45-55g
Sugars	35-45g
Protein	4-6g

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate only and may vary depending on specific ingredients and preparation methods. Please consult a professional for dietary advice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Hello Dolly bars also called?

They are commonly known by several names, including Magic Bars, Seven-Layer Bars, and sometimes Coconut Dream Bars. All refer to the same delicious, layered dessert.

Why are they called “magic” bars?

They earn the “magic” title because of how easily the sweetened condensed milk transforms into a gooey, binding caramel layer during baking. This creates a cohesive, rich treat from simple ingredients.

Can I use unsweetened coconut?

While sweetened shredded coconut is recommended for its moisture and flavor, you can use unsweetened coconut. Be aware that the bars might be slightly less sweet and have a drier texture.

How do I prevent my bars from sticking?

Lining your baking dish with parchment paper and leaving an overhang is the best way to prevent sticking. This allows you to easily lift the entire slab of the Hello Dolly bars out for cutting.

Can I freeze Hello Dolly Bars?

Yes, these bars freeze beautifully! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This Hello Dolly Bars Recipe truly lives up to its reputation for being both simple to make and incredibly delicious. With minimal effort, you can create a gooey, rich, and satisfying dessert that everyone will adore. Its versatility allows for easy customization, ensuring you can tailor it to your exact preferences. Don’t wait; gather your ingredients and try this fantastic recipe for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat today!

The origin of these delicious treats dates back to the mid-1960s, with the name “Hello Dolly” referring to the popular Broadway musical. Learn more about the history of Hello Dolly Bars.