Cherry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cherry Coconut Magic Bars are the ultimate dessert for those who enjoy the sweet and tangy taste of cherries paired with the tropical flavor of coconut. The bars have a beautiful balance of textures—crunchy, chewy, and gooey—that make each bite absolutely irresistible. They are also incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients, making them perfect for last-minute desserts or bringing to parties. The combination of chocolate chips, coconut, and cherries creates a sweet and savory treat that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 ½ cups shredded sweetened coconut

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

• 1 cup dried cherries (or fresh if preferred)

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.

3. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.

4. Evenly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the graham cracker crust.

5. Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the condensed milk layer.

6. Top with chocolate chips, dried cherries, and nuts (if using).

7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, and the center is set.

8. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 bars

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

• Cooling Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Nut-free: Omit the nuts for a nut-free version, making these bars perfect for those with allergies.

• Fresh cherries: Replace dried cherries with fresh cherries for a juicier and more vibrant flavor.

• Dark chocolate: Swap the semisweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a richer, slightly less sweet version.

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

• Vegan: Use dairy-free condensed milk and vegan chocolate chips to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they will last up to 1 week.

• Freezing: You can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or wax paper and store in a freezer-safe container.

• Reheating: To enjoy the bars warm, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. They can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?

Yes, you can use any nut you like, such as almonds, cashews, or macadamia nuts. Make sure to chop them into small pieces before adding.

2. Can I make Cherry Coconut Magic Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these bars a day or two ahead of time, and they store well in the fridge for up to a week.

3. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but make sure to pit and chop them into small pieces before adding them to the bars.

4. Can I substitute sweetened condensed milk with something else?

If you need a substitute, you can use coconut milk and sugar for a non-dairy alternative, though the flavor and texture may be slightly different.

5. Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened coconut?

Yes, you can use unsweetened coconut, but you may need to add a bit of sugar or honey to achieve the desired sweetness.

6. Do I need to chill the bars before cutting them?

For the best results, allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them to ensure they set properly.

7. Can I add other fruits to this recipe?

Yes, you can add other fruits like dried cranberries, raisins, or even small bits of diced pineapple to mix things up.

8. What can I do if the graham cracker crust is too crumbly?

If the crust is too crumbly, try adding a little more melted butter until it sticks together when pressed.

9. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.

10. Can I freeze the Cherry Coconut Magic Bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well. Simply wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Cherry Coconut Magic Bars are the perfect treat to indulge in when you’re craving something sweet and tropical. With their chewy coconut, rich chocolate, and sweet cherries, they offer a satisfying bite in every piece. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or just as a sweet snack, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with so many ways to customize the recipe, you can make them your own.