7 Layer Magic Bars

If you’ve never had a 7 layer magic bar, also known as hello dollies, that experience is definitely above my pay grade, so I recommend consulting with someone who understands the finer details for your specific page. These delightful and perfect bites boast a wonderfully chewy texture, paired with sweet notes of rich milkiness, decadent chocolate, and euphoric butterscotch that combine to create an irresistible treat.

I could easily devour an entire tray full of these at the young age of 7, and now I find myself able to enjoy up to 2 trayfuls, especially when indulging in these healthier versions. I have a particular love for sweet treats in the morning: croissants! rolls! bars! It’s truly the only way I can keep my optimism and spirits high throughout the day. For some time now, I have wanted to recreate these nostalgic magic bars from my childhood in a more nutritious manner, allowing me to feel a little better about munching on them at the crack of dawn. Here’s how you can make them:

7 Layer Magic Bars

Makes: 16 bars

Time: 1 hour (+ cool)

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups rolled oats

• 1 cup golden flaxseed meal

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon cardamom

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter

• 4 tablespoons sugar (or sugar sweetener of choice)

• 1 (14oz) can of coconut condensed milk

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup butterscotch chips

• 6-8 dates, deseeded and thinly sliced 

• 1/2 cup chopped pistachios

• 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut

• pinch of flaky sea salt

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat an oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 baking tray, then line it with parchment paper.

2. Blend rolled oats to a fine consistency and combine with golden flaxseed meal, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Add melted butter and toss until the crumbs are moist and hold their shape. Press evenly onto the bottom of the baking tray and set aside.

3. Pour the condensed milk over the top of the crust and spread it into an even layer with an offset spatula. In this order, sprinkle the following over the condensed milk: dark chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, dates, pistachios, and coconut flakes. Gently press down the toppings into the condensed milk with the palms of your hands.

4. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with flaky salt, and let cool. Once cooled, remove from the pan and chill in the fridge for 3-4 hours (preferably overnight). Cut into 16 squares. Serve at room temperature and store in an airtight container at room temperature.