Description
Sweet layers of bliss converge in this irresistible fruit cake 7-layer bars, where classic comfort meets indulgent charm. Crumbly, nutty, and richly textured, you’ll savor each delectable bite of this nostalgic dessert that promises pure culinary delight.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup (150g) mixed dried fruits (chopped candied cherries, raisins, apricots, etc.)
- 1 cup (120g) chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
- 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Base and Binding Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup (125 milliliters) sweetened condensed milk
Flavoring and Texture Ingredients:
- 1 cup (120g) shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or applying a light grease to prevent sticking.
- Melt the butter and thoroughly combine it with graham cracker crumbs in a medium bowl, creating a uniform mixture.
- Firmly press the graham cracker and butter mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even, compact crust.
- Create a layered foundation by sprinkling shredded coconut uniformly across the graham cracker base.
- Distribute the chopped dried fruits and assorted nuts evenly over the coconut layer, ensuring consistent coverage.
- Scatter chocolate chips across the surface, dispersing them in a balanced manner for maximum flavor distribution.
- Gently pour sweetened condensed milk over the entire layered surface, allowing it to seep between ingredients and act as a binding agent.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a golden-brown top and set layers.
- Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely within the pan, which helps solidify the layers and makes cutting easier.
- Once fully cooled, slice into square or rectangular portions, ensuring clean, precise cuts through all layers.
Notes
- Adjust coconut thickness based on personal preference, ensuring an even layer for consistent texture throughout the bars.
- Experiment with mixed dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, and raisins to create a more complex and vibrant flavor profile.
- Toast nuts beforehand to enhance their natural oils and deepen the overall nutty taste of the dessert, bringing out richer undertones.
- Choose gluten-free graham crackers or alternatives like almond flour crust for those with dietary restrictions, maintaining the recipe’s delicious essence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg