Save
This peanut butter magic bars recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible layered dessert that disappears quickly at any gathering. The combination of graham cracker crust, peanut butter, chocolate, coconut, and M&Ms creates that perfect sweet treat that both kids and adults will devour.
I first made these magic bars for a neighborhood potluck and had three different people ask for the recipe before the night was over. Now they're my signature contribution to every school bake sale and holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers these form the perfect crunchy base that holds everything together
- Unsalted butter brings richness to the crust and helps bind the crumbs
- Sweetened condensed milk creates that magical gooey texture that makes these bars irresistible
- Peanut butter adds a creamy nutty dimension that elevates traditional magic bars
- Semi sweet chocolate chips provide rich chocolate flavor without being too sweet
- Toffee baking bits contribute caramel notes and delightful crunch
- Shredded coconut adds a tropical chewiness that perfectly complements the other ingredients
- M&Ms bring color and fun plus an extra chocolate element
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and either spray your 13x9 baking dish thoroughly with nonstick spray or line it with foil and spray the foil. This step is crucial for clean removal later, especially with all the sticky ingredients.
- Create the Peanut Butter Mixture
- Melt your peanut butter until just fluid, then mix thoroughly with the sweetened condensed milk until completely smooth and uniform. Take your time here to ensure there are no peanut butter streaks remaining.
- Form the Graham Cracker Crust
- Pulse graham crackers in your food processor until you have fine crumbs, or place them in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin. Combine the crumbs with melted butter, mixing until every crumb is moistened, then press firmly and evenly into your prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create a compact, even surface.
- Layer the Goodness
- Distribute chocolate chips, toffee bits, and coconut evenly over the crust, making sure to spread them to all corners. Pour the peanut butter mixture slowly over everything, trying to cover as much area as possible. Sprinkle M&Ms across the top, gently pressing them into the mixture.
- Bake to Golden Perfection
- Bake for exactly 25 to 30 minutes, watching carefully during the last few minutes. The top should be golden brown but not dark. The center may still look slightly soft but will set as it cools.
- Add the Finishing Touch
- For an extra special presentation, melt chocolate chips with vegetable oil, heating in 15 second increments and stirring between each, until completely smooth. Use a fork to create delicate chocolate drizzles across the top, then chill to set the chocolate.
Save
The sweetened condensed milk is truly the magic ingredient here. I discovered this recipe when I was looking for a way to use up a can in my pantry, and now I keep extras stocked just for these bars. My daughter once declared these better than birthday cake and requested them instead for her celebration.
Storage Tips
These magic bars keep remarkably well when stored properly. Place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh at room temperature for 3 to 4 days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. The flavors actually meld and deepen after the first day, making them a perfect make ahead dessert.
Ingredient Substitutions
These bars welcome customization based on what you have available. Replace the peanut butter with almond butter or cookie butter for different flavor profiles. White chocolate chips work beautifully instead of semi sweet, and butterscotch chips can replace the toffee bits. For a nut free version, use sunflower seed butter and increase the graham cracker crumbs slightly to maintain the proper consistency.
Serving Suggestions
While these bars are perfect on their own, they transform into an elegant dessert when warmed slightly and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a dessert board, cut them into small squares and arrange with other bite sized treats. During the holidays, I arrange them on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive snow effect.
The Magic Bar Origin Story
Magic bars first appeared in the 1960s when Eagle Brand printed a recipe called Magic Cookie Bars on their sweetened condensed milk cans. Sometimes called Seven Layer Bars, they became a staple in American homes because of their simplicity and delicious results. This peanut butter variation builds on that beloved classic, adding an extra dimension of flavor that makes them even more irresistible and creates a nostalgic treat with a modern twist.
Save
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the peanut butter in these magic bars?
Yes, you can substitute the peanut butter with other nut butters like almond butter or cashew butter. For a nut-free version, try using cookie butter or sunflower seed butter. Just ensure whatever substitute you use has a similar consistency to peanut butter for proper spreading.
- → How do I store these peanut butter magic bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months by wrapping individual pieces in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- → Can I make these magic bars without coconut?
Yes, you can omit the coconut if desired. Consider replacing it with an equal amount of chopped nuts, additional chocolate chips, or other mix-ins like mini marshmallows or dried fruit to maintain the texture and fullness of the bars.
- → Why do my magic bars need to cool completely before cutting?
Cooling completely allows all the layers to set properly. The sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter mixture needs time to firm up, and the chocolate needs to solidify. Cutting while warm can result in messy, falling-apart bars. For cleaner cuts, you can even refrigerate them for an hour after cooling.
- → How can I make these peanut butter magic bars for different holidays?
Simply swap the regular M&Ms for seasonal varieties: red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter, red and pink for Valentine's Day, orange and brown for Thanksgiving, or black and orange for Halloween. You can also match sprinkles or colored chocolate drizzle to the holiday theme.
- → Can I use graham cracker crumbs instead of whole graham crackers?
Absolutely! You'll need about 1½ cups of graham cracker crumbs to replace the 12 sheets of graham crackers called for in the recipe. This substitution actually saves you the step of crushing the crackers yourself.