Name: Easy Seven Layer Cookie Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup butterscotch chips; 1 1/3 cups sweetened shredded coconut; 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are a classic for good reason—they’re quick to make, loaded with indulgent ingredients, and taste like a bite of heaven. Whether you need a last-minute dessert, something for a bake sale, or a sweet fix to share with friends and family, Seven Layer Cookie Bars deliver every time. Plus, they’re completely customizable depending on what you have in your pantry.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Graham cracker crumbs
Unsalted butter (melted)
Sweetened condensed milk
Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Butterscotch chips
Sweetened shredded coconut
Chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust.
Layer the chocolate chips and butterscotch chips on top of the milk.
Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly across the surface.
Top with chopped nuts.
Gently press down on the layers with the back of a spatula to help them set.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the top is lightly browned.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 20 bars.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 25–30 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: About 1 hour and 40 minutes

Variations

Use crushed chocolate or vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers for a different crust.
Swap butterscotch chips for peanut butter or white chocolate chips.
Add a layer of mini marshmallows for extra gooeyness.
Use almonds or macadamia nuts instead of pecans or walnuts.
Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the top once cooled.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Refrigerate if you want firmer bars or longer storage—up to 1 week.
They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
No reheating necessary; serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

FAQs

Can I make these bars without nuts?

Yes, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds or crushed pretzels for a nut-free version.

Do I have to use both chocolate and butterscotch chips?

No, you can use just one or substitute with any chips you prefer, such as white chocolate or peanut butter.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What kind of coconut should I use?

Sweetened shredded coconut is ideal for flavor and texture, but unsweetened can be used for less sweetness.

Why are they called seven layer bars?

They typically include seven ingredients layered in a specific order: crust, condensed milk, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, coconut, nuts, and butter.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double it and use a larger baking sheet or two 9×13 pans. Adjust baking time slightly if needed.

How do I keep them from sticking to the pan?

Use parchment paper or foil with overhang for easy removal. Greasing the pan works too, but parchment is best.

Can I use homemade sweetened condensed milk?

Yes, as long as it has the same thick, sweet consistency as the canned version, it will work fine.

Do these bars need to be refrigerated?

Not necessarily, but refrigeration helps them stay firm and extends shelf life.

What’s the best way to cut them cleanly?

Cool completely, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts.

Conclusion

Easy Seven Layer Cookie Bars are everything a dessert should be—simple to make, satisfyingly rich, and endlessly adaptable. With gooey chocolate, crunchy nuts, chewy coconut, and a buttery crust, every bite is a flavor-packed treat. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or keeping a stash at home, these bars are a guaranteed hit that you’ll come back to time and again.