Get ready to experience a dessert that's about to become your new obsession! These Salty Sweet Peanut Butter Magic Bars are not just a treat – they're a culinary adventure that combines the most irresistible flavors in one mind-blowing bite. Imagine a perfect graham cracker crust topped with a heavenly layer of chocolate, coconut, and peanut butter, finished with a magical drizzle of sweetened condensed milk and a sprinkle of sea salt. These bars are so addictively delicious, they'll disappear faster than you can say "magic"!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl or in a small saucepan over low heat. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with graham cracker crumbs, stirring until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a compact base layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure an even surface.
- Spread the sweetened shredded coconut in an even layer over the graham cracker crust.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly across the coconut layer.
- Warm the peanut butter slightly in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to make it more pourable. Drizzle the peanut butter over the chocolate chips and coconut.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk slowly and evenly over the entire surface, ensuring it covers most of the layers.
- Sprinkle the sea salt evenly across the top of the bars to enhance the sweet and salty flavor profile.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 23-25 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 for about 1 hour. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Cut into 16 even squares using a sharp knife.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for the most even mixing and baking results.
- For the most precise graham cracker crust, use the bottom of a measuring cup to firmly pack the base.
- Warm the peanut butter briefly to make it easier to drizzle, but don't overheat.
- Watch the bars carefully in the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting for clean, neat squares.
- For an extra flavor boost, try using dark chocolate chips or adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and picture-perfect bars.
- Chill the bars before cutting for the cleanest, most precise slices.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain their incredible texture and flavor.
- For a fun variation, try using different types of nuts or chocolate to customize your magic bars!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 30mg
