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FRUIT CAKE 7-LAYER BARS

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  • Author: Stephanie
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12-16 bars 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Holiday

Description

These 7-layer bars bring a festive twist to the classic treat by incorporating the flavors of a traditional fruit cake. With layers of buttery crust, dried fruits, nuts, and chocolate, they are perfect for the holiday season!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (120g) shredded coconut
  • 1 cup (150g) mixed dried fruits (chopped candied cherries, raisins, apricots, etc.)
  • 1 cup (120g) chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
  • 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup (125ml) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Make the Crust:
    • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
  3. Layer the Ingredients:
    • Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the crust.
    • Add a layer of the mixed dried fruits, followed by the chopped nuts.
    • Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top.
  4. Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk:
    • In a small bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk with the vanilla extract. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the layers.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
  6. Cool and Cut:
    • Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan, then cut them into squares or rectangles.

 



Notes

  • Customize the dried fruits and nuts to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand.
  • For an extra festive touch, drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
  • Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.