If you are on the hunt for a sweet treat that combines rich flavors and a delightful texture, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe. These bars bring together a buttery graham cracker crust, luscious layers of semi-sweet chocolate, chewy shredded coconut, and bright, juicy maraschino cherries for a dessert that truly feels like magic in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something incredibly comforting and unique, these bars will quickly become your go-to dessert to impress friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating that perfect harmony of flavor and texture in your Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, from the crunchy crust to the gooey, sweet layers and the pop of cherry that brightens each bite.
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crisp and slightly sweet base for the bars to hold together beautifully.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crust ingredients and adds richness without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk: The magic ingredient that creates a creamy, caramel-like texture when baked.
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Offers a rich, melty chocolate layer that adds depth and sweetness.
- 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut: Delivers chewy texture and tropical flair to keep every bite interesting.
- ¾ cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry: Provides bursts of color and a sweet, tangy contrast that balances the chocolate and coconut.
- Optional: extra shredded coconut for topping: Adds an extra layer of coconutey goodness and visual appeal.
- Optional: melted chocolate for drizzling: Elevates presentation and adds a luscious finish.
- Optional: white chocolate chips: Can be added for a creamy contrast and extra sweetness.
How to Make Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or give it a good spray with nonstick spray to ensure your bars slide out effortlessly once baked. Getting this setup right makes cleanup a breeze and keeps your bars looking picture-perfect.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. This consistency is key for a crust that holds together firmly without feeling heavy. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to form a lovely, sturdy base for all those delicious toppings.
Step 3: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust. This thick, sweet layer will seep into the crust as it bakes, helping bind the bars into one wonderfully gooey, tender treat that melts in your mouth.
Step 4: Layer the Magic
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips generously across the sweetened condensed milk layer, followed by an even layer of shredded coconut. The coconut introduces a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth milk and melty chocolate. Finally, scatter the chopped maraschino cherries on top, adding their vibrant color and bright flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft. This baking time ensures that all the layers meld together perfectly, creating bars that hold shape but still have that signature gooey magic.
Step 6: Cool and Chill
Allow your Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe to cool completely in the pan. For the best slices with clean edges, refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours. Chilling solidifies the bars, making them easier to cut and helping the flavors to deepen and mingle.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into squares. Wipe your knife between cuts for neat, professional-looking pieces. Serve these as-is or take things up a notch by drizzling with extra melted chocolate or sprinkling with additional shredded coconut or white chocolate chips if you like.
How to Serve Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance these bars with a dusting of powdered sugar, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, or a drizzle of rich chocolate or white chocolate. The garnishes not only elevate the visual appeal but also add layers of flavor and texture that make every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
Pair these magic bars with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. Fresh berries or a cup of hot coffee or tea also make delightful companions to round out your indulgent treat.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these bars at a party or a gathering, consider layering smaller cut squares in a clear glass trifle bowl with whipped cream and fresh cherries for a stunning layered dessert. Alternatively, present individual bars on pretty plates with a cherry on top for an inviting, personal touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, keep them refrigerated to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars for up to two months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying, and they’ll taste just as magical as fresh-baked.
Reheating
To enjoy a warm bar, simply microwave a single square for 15 to 20 seconds. The chocolate chips will soften delightfully, and the bars will taste like they just came out of the oven—perfect for a cozy treat.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh cherries for maraschino cherries in the Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe?
Fresh cherries can be used, but since they contain more moisture, it might affect the texture slightly. Make sure to pit and dry them well before adding to avoid sogginess in the bars.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the bars before cutting?
Refrigerating for 1 to 2 hours helps the bars set fully for cleaner cuts, but if you’re in a hurry, letting them cool completely at room temperature can work, though the slices might be a bit stickier.
Can I use dairy-free alternatives for butter and condensed milk?
Absolutely! Use plant-based butter and sweetened condensed coconut milk or other dairy-free condensed milk substitutes to keep the recipe vegan-friendly and still delicious.
What is the best way to keep the crust from getting soggy?
Mixing the graham cracker crumbs thoroughly with melted butter ensures a well-bound crust, and baking the assembled bars until just set helps avoid sogginess. Also, avoid adding wet fillings directly on top of the crust without a barrier like the sweetened condensed milk.
Can I add nuts to the Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe?
Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled on top or layered beneath the cherries for extra crunch and flavor without overpowering the classic taste.
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe are truly little bites of joy, perfect for anyone who loves the mix of sweet, chewy, and fruity all in one dessert. Once you make them, they’ll be your secret weapon for quick, crowd-pleasing treats that feel homemade and special. So go ahead, bake a batch, share with friends, and watch these bars work their magic!
Print
Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes plus 1-2 hours chilling
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cherry Coconut Magic Bars are a delightful layered dessert featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, sweetened condensed milk, melty chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and vibrant maraschino cherries. Baked to golden perfection, these bars combine chewy and crunchy textures with a burst of cherry flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- ¾ cup chopped maraschino cherries, drained and patted dry
Optional Toppings
- Extra shredded coconut for topping
- Melted chocolate for drizzling
- White chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly spray it with nonstick spray to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust base.
- Add Condensed Milk: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the pressed crust, spreading gently to cover the surface uniformly.
- Layer Toppings: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the condensed milk layer. Then add the shredded coconut in a uniform layer, followed by a generous topping of the chopped maraschino cherries.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the center is set, indicating the bars are fully cooked.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For best slicing results, refrigerate the bars for 1 to 2 hours to firm up before cutting.
- Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into 24 squares. Wipe the knife between cuts for clean, neat edges. Optionally, drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle additional shredded coconut or white chocolate chips before serving.
Notes
- Ensure maraschino cherries are well drained and patted dry to prevent soggy bars.
- Press the crust firmly to avoid a crumbly base.
- Refrigeration helps the bars set and makes cutting easier.
- Optional toppings like melted chocolate drizzle or white chocolate chips add extra flavor and decoration.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
