Mint Magic Bars

Mint Magic Bars are a delightful spin on the classic layered dessert bar, bursting with chocolate and cool mint flavors. Built on a buttery graham cracker crust and topped with layers of mint chips, chocolate chips, coconut, and sweetened condensed milk, these bars are chewy, gooey, and perfect for holidays or mint lovers year-round.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Just layer the ingredients and bake—no mixing bowls or electric mixers needed.
• Festive and Fun: The green mint chips make these bars a standout for St. Patrick’s Day, Christmas, or themed parties.
• Perfect Flavor Combo: The cool mint and rich chocolate are balanced by the sweet coconut and crunchy crust.
• Great for Gifting or Sharing: These bars travel well and are loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup mint chocolate chips (or crème de menthe baking chips)
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Make the crust
   In a small bowl, combine melted butter and graham cracker crumbs. Press firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Layer the toppings
   Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust. Then sprinkle on the chocolate chips, mint chips, coconut, and nuts (if using), in that order.
4. Bake
   Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
5. Cool and slice
   Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper (if used) and slice into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 bars
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: About 40 minutes

Variations

• Double Mint: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the condensed milk layer.
• Chocolate Crust: Use crushed chocolate cookies instead of graham crackers for a richer base.
• Nut-Free: Omit the nuts completely, or replace them with sunflower seeds or additional chips.
• Swirled Topping: Lightly swirl the chips and coconut into the condensed milk before baking for a marbled effect.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a single layer or with parchment between layers for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: These bars are best served at room temperature, but you can microwave for a few seconds if desired for a warm, gooey texture.

FAQs

Can I use only chocolate chips if I can’t find mint chips?

Yes, just use chocolate chips and add 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a similar flavor.

What are crème de menthe baking chips?

They’re green-colored mint-flavored chips used for baking. Look for them in the baking aisle near chocolate chips.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Definitely! These bars actually taste better the next day after the flavors have set.

Do I have to use sweetened condensed milk?

Yes, it’s essential for binding the ingredients and giving the bars their signature chewy texture.

Can I substitute the graham cracker crust?

Yes, crushed chocolate cookies or vanilla wafers can be used for a different flavor.

What can I use instead of shredded coconut?

You can substitute with crushed cereal or oats, but it will slightly change the texture.

Do I need to refrigerate them?

Not necessary if eaten within a few days, but refrigeration can extend freshness.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers or cookies for the crust.

Why are my bars falling apart?

Make sure they’ve fully cooled before slicing—warm bars are more likely to crumble.

How do I cut them cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and wipe between cuts. Chilling the bars slightly before slicing also helps.

Conclusion

Mint Magic Bars are a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. With their cool mint flavor, rich chocolate layers, and chewy, gooey texture, they’re perfect for holidays, bake sales, or anytime you want something sweet with a little magic.

Print