7-Layer Bars

We've all had these, haven't we? I know I have. I don't know why I don't ever think of making them. They're so easy and are basically a homemade candy bar, which hits the spot every time. They are a classic and never disappointing.

1 cup sweetened coconut
1 cup finely chopped pecans
1 stick (8 T) butter, melted
9 graham crackers (usually 1 package), crushed
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 cup butterscotch chips
1 (14oz) can sweetened condensed milk

Preheat to 350 degrees. Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray. Line the pan with two overlapping pieces of foil or parchment paper, leaving overhang to act as handles for lifting the bars out of the pan. Spray with non-stick spray.

Spread the coconut and pecans on a baking sheet and bake until the outer flakes just begin to brown, about 4 minutes. (Keep a close eye on it – coconut can go from slightly browned to burnt in a matter of seconds.) Set aside.

Combine melted butter with graham cracker crumbs in a small bowl. Toss with your fingers until the butter is evenly distributed. Press the crumbs evenly onto the bottom of the prepared pan.

In order, sprinkle the walnuts, chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and coconut over the graham crumbs. Pour the condensed milk evenly over the entire dish.

Bake until the top is golden brown, about 25 minutes. Cool in the pan on a wire rack to room temperature, about 2 hours.

6. Remove the bars from the pan using the foil or parchment handles and transfer to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares.

*Adapted from Brown Eyed Baker