Fruit Cake 7-Layer Bars

Bring the holiday spirit to your dessert table with these Fruit Cake 7-Layer Bars! A festive twist on the classic magic cookie bars, these colorful treats combine a buttery graham cracker crust with layers of sweetened condensed milk, candied fruit, coconut, crunchy nuts, and two kinds of chocolate chips. Every bite bursts with chewy, nutty, and chocolaty holiday flavor perfect for parties or gifting.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup candied mixed fruit (such as cherries and pineapple)
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form a crust.
3. Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust.
4. Sprinkle candied mixed fruit evenly over the condensed milk.
5. Add shredded coconut on top of the fruit layer.
6. Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the coconut.
7. Evenly distribute semi-sweet chocolate chips over the nuts.
8. Finish with white chocolate chips on top for a pretty contrast.
9. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and the center is set.
10. Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.

Variation

• Festive Swap: Add dried cranberries or mini marshmallows for a colorful, chewy surprise.
• Tropical Touch: Replace the candied fruit with dried pineapple, mango, and coconut flakes for a sunshine-inspired version.
• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely for a kid-friendly version.

Cooking Notes

• Press the graham cracker crust firmly so it holds the layers together well after baking.
• Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and set layers.
• For extra flavor depth, lightly toast the coconut before layering.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Tray Favorite: Arrange on a cookie platter with fudge, truffles, and shortbread for a colorful dessert assortment.
• Gift Idea: Package bars in festive tins or boxes lined with parchment for a homemade holiday gift.
• Dessert Pairing: Serve with hot cocoa, coffee, or mulled wine to complement the sweetness.

Tips

• Chill the bars for at least 1 hour before cutting this helps the layers firm up and enhances the flavor.
• For easier removal, line the pan with overhanging parchment paper “handles.”
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Bar)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Sodium: 120 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different types of chocolate chips? Absolutely dark, milk, or butterscotch chips all work wonderfully.
2. Do these bars freeze well? Yes! Freeze in layers with parchment between each for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use store-bought fruitcake mix? Yes, it adds great color and flavor just chop larger pieces finely.
4. Do I need to refrigerate them? Not necessary, but refrigeration helps them stay fresh longer.

Conclusion

These Fruit Cake 7-Layer Bars are everything you love about holiday baking easy, colorful, and decadently delicious. Each layer brings a new flavor and texture, making them the perfect bite-sized treat for any festive celebration. One pan, seven layers of holiday magic!

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