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
- 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!
- 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.
- 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.
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 BarsWant 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.
FAQsCan 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.