These Butter Pecan M&M Magic Bars are the perfect sweet treat for those who crave a combination of flavors and textures. Layers of chocolate, butterscotch, coconut, and pecans sit atop a buttery graham cracker crust, all held together by the creamy goodness of sweetened condensed milk. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are great for parties, holidays, or just an afternoon snack.
Butter Pecan M&M Magic Bars are a deliciously sticky dessert that brings together the beloved flavors of pecans, chocolate, and butterscotch. This treat is easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, with a colorful burst of M&Ms adding a touch of fun to each bite. The graham cracker base provides a solid, buttery foundation for the layers of coconut, pecans, and chips, all of which are enveloped by the creamy sweetness of condensed milk.
INGREDIENTS
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, melted
- Graham cracker crumbs: 1 ½ cups
- Sweetened shredded coconut: 1 cup
- Chopped pecans: 1 cup
- M&M’s: 1 cup, any variety
- Butterscotch chips: 1 cup
- Chocolate chips: 1 cup
- Sweetened condensed milk: 14 oz can
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Begin by heating the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9x13 pan with parchment.
- Step 2:
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter, pressing this mixture into the pan's base to create a crust.
- Step 3:
- Distribute coconut, pecans, M&Ms, butterscotch chips, and chocolate chips evenly atop the crust.
- Step 4:
- Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the entire layered mixture in the pan.
- Step 5:
- Bake for around 25-30 minutes, letting it become golden and firm.
- Step 6:
- Let it cool completely before slicing into bars to relish!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Cool completely before slicing for neat, clean bars.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For a firmer texture, refrigerate before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Use any variety of M&Ms to customize the look and taste of your bars.
- Substitute walnuts or almonds if pecans are not available.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty combination.
Layered Perfection: Why These Bars Stand Out
The beauty of these Butter Pecan M&M Magic Bars lies in their simplicity and versatility. Each bite delivers a medley of textures—from the crunch of nuts to the smooth melt of chocolate and butterscotch. With minimal effort, you can prepare a crowd-pleasing treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Tips for Customizing Your Magic Bars
Want to switch up your recipe? Experiment with different flavors of chips or try adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. These easy variations can give your bars a unique twist each time you bake them.
FAQs
Can I freeze Butter Pecan M&M Magic Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag.
What type of M&Ms work best?
Any variety will work, but regular milk chocolate M&Ms are a popular choice. Try peanut or caramel M&Ms for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with a gluten-free version.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The top should be golden and firm. If it is still jiggly, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Summary
Butter Pecan M&M Magic Bars are a luscious combination of crunchy pecans, colorful M&Ms, sweet butterscotch, and rich chocolate layered over a buttery graham cracker crust. The addition of sweetened condensed milk ties all the ingredients together, creating a gooey, chewy texture that is simply irresistible. These bars are a simple dessert to make, with just a few ingredients and straightforward assembly. Start by creating a graham cracker crust, followed by layers of coconut, pecans, M&Ms, and chips. The condensed milk poured over everything bakes into a sweet, golden layer that locks all the flavors in. Serve these for gatherings, family events, or any occasion where a delicious, easy dessert is needed. Whether you enjoy them warm out of the oven or chilled, these bars will be a hit with everyone. For best results, allow them to cool completely before slicing, ensuring clean, perfect pieces every time.