Irresistible Fruit Cake Magic Bars: A Holiday Treat You Can't Resist!
Get ready to add a burst of festive flavor to your holiday baking with these incredibly easy and utterly delicious Fruit Cake Magic Bars! Forget everything you thought you knew about fruit cake; these 7-layer bars transform traditional holiday flavors into a chewy, gooey, chocolatey delight that everyone will adore. With layers of crunchy graham cracker crust, sweet condensed milk, festive candied mixed fruit, coconut, nuts, and two kinds of chocolate, they truly live up to their "magic" name.
Why You'll Love These Fruit Cake Magic Bars
These aren't your grandma's dense fruit cakes – these bars are a revelation! They're quick to prepare, requiring minimal baking skills, and deliver maximum flavor. Perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or simply a cozy evening treat, they offer a delightful chewiness and a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. Plus, they look stunning on any dessert platter!
The Magic of the Layers
The beauty of magic bars lies in their simplicity and the harmonious blend of flavors created by each distinct layer:
- Crust: A buttery graham cracker base that forms the perfect foundation.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: The magical binder that makes everything gooey and irresistible.
- Candied Fruit: Adds that signature festive, vibrant touch and a chewy sweetness.
- Shredded Coconut: For a tropical hint and added texture.
- Pecans/Walnuts: Provides a lovely crunch and nutty depth.
- Chocolate Chips (Semi-Sweet & White): Because two types of chocolate are always better than one, offering rich sweetness and creamy notes.
Tips for Perfect Fruit Cake Magic Bars
- Even Layers: Ensure each layer is spread as evenly as possible for consistent texture and flavor in every bite.
- Cool Completely: This is crucial! Resist the urge to cut into the bars before they are completely cooled, or they will be too gooey and fall apart. Chilling them in the refrigerator can help with clean cuts.
- Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Lining your pan with parchment paper makes for super easy removal and cleanup. Leave an overhang on the sides to lift the entire slab out once cooled.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, dried fruits (like dried cranberries or apricots), or even a sprinkle of spice like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra festive touch.
Making it Your Own: Variations
While the classic Fruit Cake Magic Bar recipe is fantastic as is, don't hesitate to get creative:
- Nut-Free: If allergies are a concern, simply omit the nuts or replace them with an equal amount of oats or extra chocolate chips.
- Different Fruits: If you're not a fan of traditional candied mixed fruit, try chopped dried cranberries, apricots, or even glace cherries for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: A tiny pinch of cinnamon or allspice mixed with the graham cracker crumbs can add a warm, holiday aroma.
Conclusion
These Fruit Cake Magic Bars are the ultimate easy holiday dessert. They combine the best parts of a classic magic bar with the festive charm of fruit cake, all in one delightful bite. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this sweet, chewy, and utterly addictive treat!
FAQs
What kind of candied fruit should I use for Fruit Cake Magic Bars?
You can use a pre-mixed bag of candied mixed fruit, often found in the baking aisle during the holiday season. This typically includes candied cherries, pineapple, and citrus peels. If you prefer, you can also chop your own dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or even glace cherries.
Can I make Fruit Cake Magic Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are excellent for making in advance. They tend to firm up and even taste better the next day as the flavors meld. Once cooled and cut, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How should I store leftover Fruit Cake Magic Bars?
Store your cooled and cut Fruit Cake Magic Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their chewiness. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 2-3 months. If freezing, separate layers with parchment paper.
Can I substitute ingredients in this magic bar recipe?
Yes, magic bars are very versatile! You can swap the pecans or walnuts for other nuts like almonds, or omit them for a nut-free version. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips (milk chocolate, dark chocolate, butterscotch chips) or add other mix-ins like toffee bits.
Fruit Cake Magic Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Diet: Standard
Description
These easy 7-layer bars transform traditional fruit cake flavors into a chewy, gooey, chocolatey delight perfect for any occasion.
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
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
Step 3: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust.
Step 4: Sprinkle the candied mixed fruit evenly over the condensed milk layer.
Step 5: Add the shredded coconut evenly on top of the fruit.
Step 6: Sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the coconut.
Step 7: Evenly distribute the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the nuts.
Step 8: Finish by sprinkling the white chocolate chips on top.
Step 9: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Step 10: Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Notes
For easier cutting, chill the completely cooled bars in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Leave a Reply