As a child, my grandmother would often invite me into her kitchen, where the air was filled with the warm scent of baking treats. One of our favorite recipes was her classic seven-layer bars, stacked high with layers of chocolate, coconut, and nuts. They were a staple at family gatherings and always brought smiles to our faces. Today, I’m excited to share a modern twist on this beloved treat that adds a hint of espresso and a sprinkle of sea salt for a sophisticated touch. These Decadent Seven-Layer Bars are sure to evoke nostalgia while captivating your taste buds!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup butterscotch chips
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work great)
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to help lift the bars out later.

In a large bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.

Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the crust, followed by the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butterscotch chips. Then, add the chopped nuts.

In a small bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk with the instant espresso powder until well combined. Pour this mixture over the layered ingredients, using a spatula to spread it evenly.

Sprinkle the sea salt over the top, adding just a hint of savory flavor to balance the sweetness of the bars.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the top is set. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the dish. Cut into squares or rectangles, and serve them to friends and family.

These Decadent Seven-Layer Bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy gathering at home or a festive celebration. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, reminiscent of childhood memories but elevated to a new level. Enjoy the smiles and compliments that come your way!