It is easy to make this traditional holiday treat gluten free by switching out the graham crumbs.  Magic Cookie Bars were always on our Christmas dessert trays growing up so this year I decided to add them to mine!

These dessert bars are loaded with flavour, colour and texture.

Top them with your favourite holiday fruit or fruit mix and they will be pleasing to the eye as well as the palate.

This recipe can yield 24 to 30 squares depending on how you cut them up.  The size will depend on your occasion.

Enjoy every mouthful of this delicious dessert square.

Printable Recipe Card with a Full List of Ingredients and Instructions is Located at the Bottom of the Post.

Be sure to read through the entire post so that you don’t miss out on any important tips and tricks!

To begin I dumped some softened butter and gluten free graham crumbs into a mixing bowl and mixed them together well. 

Next I lined a 9″x13″ pan with parchment paper and sprayed it with cooking spray.

I scraped the graham crumbs into the prepared pan.

I pressed the graham crumbs down into the pan with a fork.

Then I chopped up some maraschino cherries.

For the next layer I poured sweetened condensed milk over top of the graham crust.

I followed this up with some semi sweet chocolate chips.

Then I sprinkled some unsweetened shredded coconut on top of the chocolate chips.

For my last layer I sprinkled on the cut up maraschino cherries.  You could also use a mixture of red and green cherries or use some mixed fruit instead.

Some people may like to add their favourite chopped nuts on top as well.

Once my layers were complete I baked the squares in a preheated 350F oven for 30 –  35 minutes or until it was starting to brown.  Some people might like tto brown the whole square but we prefer it brown around the edges.

After removing the squares from the oven I allowed them to cool completely in the baking pan.

Once cooled I lifted the bars out using the parchment paper.

Cut up this dessert recipe to suit your needs.  I usually get between 24 and 30 squares.

Magic Cookie Bars are a delicious finish to any meal or add them to a dessert tray for your next festive gathering.

Maybe next time I will add some green or mixed chopped fruit…you are only limited by your imagination!

Printable Recipe Card with a Full List of Ingredients and Instructions is Located at the Bottom of the Post.

Here Are More Squares and Bars For You To Enjoy…

PRINTABLE VERSION OF THE RECIPE CAN BE FOUND AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make these Magic Cookie Bars:

• Base:
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 cups gluten free graham crumbs
• Top:
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups semi sweet chocolate chips
• 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut (I used unsweetened)
• 1 cup chopped maraschino cherries (red, green or a mixture)

How to Make Magic Cookie Bars:

1. Preheat the oven to 350F. Line an 9″x13″ inch square pan with parchment paper.  Grease. Set aside.
2. Chop up the maraschino cherries. Set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter and gluten free graham crumbs.
4. Press this mixture into bottom of the prepared baking pan.
5. Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the base.
6. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the milk.
7. Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the chocolate chips.
8. Spread out the chopped cherries over top of the coconut.
9. Bake in the preheated 350F oven for 30 – 35 minutes or until beginning to brown.
10. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the baking pan.
11. Once cooled use the parchment paper to lift the Magic Cookie Bars out of the pan.
12. Cut into squares. 24 – 30 pieces.
13. Serve and enjoy!

FAQS:

What substitutions can I make in magic cookie bars?

Magic cookie bars are a classic dessert made with layers. While the traditional recipe is delicious, you can make substitutions or variations to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas for substitutions:

1. Gluten Free Graham Cracker Crumbs:
   • Substitute graham cracker crumbs with crushed gluten free biscuits or vanilla wafers. 
2. Sweetened Condensed Milk:
   • Use a dairy-free or lactose-free sweetened condensed milk if you have dietary restrictions.
   • Try making your own homemade sweetened condensed milk using coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
3. Chocolate Chips:
   • Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate, white chocolate, butterscotch, or peanut butter chips.
   • Consider using chopped chocolate bars, toffee bits, or M&M’s for variety.
4. Coconut:
   • Use sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut depending on your preference for sweetness.
   • If you don’t like coconut, you can omit it entirely or replace it with crushed pretzels, crushed cereal, or crushed potato chips for a salty twist.
5. Nuts:
   • Use nuts like pecans, almonds, walnuts, macadamia nuts, or cashews.
6. Additional Flavors:
   • Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract, almond extract, or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
   • Sprinkle a layer of sea salt on top for a sweet-savory combination.
7. Dietary Preferences:
   • For a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate chips, coconut milk-based sweetened condensed milk, and skip the nuts.
   • If you’re looking for a lower sugar option, use a sugar-free sweetened condensed milk or reduce the sugar content in the recipe.
8. Mix-Ins:
   • Incorporate other mix-ins like dried fruit, crushed cookies, marshmallows, or cereal for unique flavor and texture combinations.

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Remember that making substitutions can change the texture and taste of the bars, so it’s a good idea to experiment and find the combination that best suits your preferences. Just be aware that certain substitutions, such as changing the sweetened condensed milk or graham cracker base, may require some adjustments in baking time and temperature.

Make sure all your substitutions are gluten free.

How do I store magic cookie bars?

Magic cookie bars are a delicious layered dessert bars.  Storing them properly will help maintain their freshness and flavor. Here’s how to store magic cookie bars:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the magic cookie bars to cool completely in the pan before attempting to store them. This helps them set and hold their shape.
2. Cut into Bars: Once they are fully cooled, cut the bars into your desired serving size. This makes it easier to serve later and reduces the need to handle them too much.
3. Use Airtight Container: Place the cut cookie bars in an airtight container. You can use a Tupperware container, a metal tin, or a plastic container with a secure lid. Make sure the container is clean and dry.
4. Layer with Parchment Paper: To prevent the bars from sticking together or becoming too moist, layer them with parchment paper. Place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer of bars in the container.
5. Refrigeration: While magic cookie bars don’t require refrigeration, keeping them in the refrigerator can extend their shelf life. If you plan to store them for an extended period or if the environment is particularly warm, refrigeration is a good option. Ensure they are still in an airtight container.
6. Keep Them Dry: Ensure the bars are stored in a dry place to prevent them from becoming soggy. Moisture can affect the texture and taste of the bars.
7. Consume Within a Reasonable Time: Magic cookie bars are best when consumed within a week or two if stored at room temperature. 

Remember that the specific ingredients you’ve used, can also impact the shelf life of the bars. Always use your best judgment and check for any signs of spoilage, like off-putting odors or changes in texture or appearance, before consuming.

Can I freeze magic cookie bars?

Yes, you can freeze magic cookie bars. Freezing them is a great way to extend their shelf life and enjoy them at a later date. Here’s how you can freeze magic cookie bars:

1. Allow Them to Cool: Let the magic cookie bars cool completely at room temperature before attempting to freeze them. This will help prevent moisture from forming inside the storage container.
2. Cut into Portions: If your magic cookie bars are in a large pan, you can cut them into individual portions or squares. This makes it easier to take out and thaw only the amount you need.
3. Wrap or Containerize: There are a few different methods you can use to freeze magic cookie bars:a. Wrap individually: You can wrap each piece of magic cookie bar in plastic wrap and then place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. This method helps prevent them from sticking together.

   b. Layer with parchment paper: If you prefer to freeze them in a single container, separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

   c. Use an airtight container: Place the magic cookie bars in an airtight, freezer-safe container. You can add a layer of plastic wrap or parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking.

4. Label and Date: It’s essential to label the container or freezer bag with the date of freezing, so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored in the freezer.
5. Freeze: Place the wrapped or containerized magic cookie bars in the freezer. Make sure they are stored in a part of the freezer where they won’t get crushed or squished by other items.
6. Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your magic cookie bars, remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for a quicker thaw. You can also warm them in the oven at a low temperature if you prefer them warm.

Magic cookie bars should maintain their quality for several months when stored properly in the freezer. However, they may lose some texture or become a bit crumbly after thawing, but they should still be delicious.