Get ready to unleash a magical explosion of flavors that will transform your dessert game forever! These Mixed Nuts Cranberry Magic Bars are not just a treat; they're a culinary adventure that combines the perfect balance of sweet, crunchy, and chewy textures in every single bite. Imagine a dessert so irresistible that it'll have your friends and family begging for the recipe, and your taste buds dancing with pure delight. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup mixed nuts, chopped
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are completely moistened and resemble wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a firm and compact base layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded coconut in an even layer over the graham cracker crust.
- Distribute the chopped mixed nuts uniformly across the coconut layer.
- Scatter the dried cranberries over the nuts, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips across the entire surface, covering the previous layers.
- Slowly and evenly pour the sweetened condensed milk over all the ingredients, making sure to cover as much surface area as possible.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is lightly caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan at room temperature, approximately 1-2 hours.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire batch out of the pan.
- Cut into 16 even squares using a sharp knife, cleaning the knife between cuts for neat edges.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your nuts are crisp and your chocolate chips are high-quality for maximum flavor.
- Press the graham cracker crust firmly: Create a compact base to prevent crumbling when cutting.
- Even layer distribution is key: Take your time when sprinkling nuts, cranberries, and chocolate to get a consistent flavor in every bite.
- Watch the caramelization carefully: The golden-brown edges are your indicator of perfect doneness, but don't let them burn.
- Cooling is crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely to let the condensed milk set and flavors meld together.
- Use parchment paper: This makes removal and cutting much easier and ensures your bars come out perfectly.
- Clean your knife between cuts for picture-perfect squares that look as good as they taste.Pro tip: These bars are incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts or add a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor dimension.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 25mg
