Dream Bars are decadent chocolate, coconut, and pecan bars on a graham cracker crust desert. Once you’ve tried them, you will dream up excuses to make them again. A friend of mine calls them Better Than Sex Bars. I am just saying. 

I don’t know about you, but baking can be a relaxing and rewarding activity for me, especially when you create mouthwatering treats that bring joy to your family & friends. Dream bars are a popular dessert that combines a rich, buttery crust with layers of sweet fillings and a crunchy top. The best part about these sweet treats is that they can be everyday and holiday desserts. 

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dream bars

The recipe for dream bars is another family recipe. I found an old recipe file of my mom’s and discovered many great recipes from my childhood. Call these bars layer bars or monkey bars. I made them upscale using toasted, maple-infused coconut flakes and turned them into a coconut dream bars recipe. 

Over the winter, our neighbor in Florida gives snowbird Farmer Fred the coconuts from his tree. Fred flakes coconuts, infuses them with maple, and toasts them in the oven until they are golden and crispy. The taste is fantastic. These toasted coconut flakes are also great in my coconut cream pie and homemade granola.

dream bars

How To Make Dream Bars Cookie?

It’s so easy that this recipe also qualifies for my SIS (simple is smart) recipe status. It is another 3 step recipe.

  • Step 1: Make the crust with graham cracker crumbs and unsalted butter. Press the crumbs into a 9 X 9-inch baking pan.  No need to prebake the crust. 
  • Step 2: Layer chocolate chips, nuts, and shredded coconut on the crust.
  • Step 3: Pour a can of sweetened condensed milk over the bars and bake in the oven until golden brown. Bake for about 15 minutes. Cool, cut, serve, and enjoy.
dream bars

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Frequently Asked Questions.

Why is it called a bar cookie?

Bar cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. They are called “bar” cookies because they are baked in a rectangular or square pan and then cut into bars or squares for serving. This unique shape is what sets them apart from other types of cookies. Not only are they delicious, but they are also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different flavors and add-ins to suit your taste preferences. From classic chocolate chip to decadent brownies, there is a bar cookie recipe out there for everyone. So why not try your hand at making some bar cookies today? You won’t be disappointed!

Why are my cookie bars raw in the middle?

If you’re finding that your cookie bars are coming out raw in the middle, don’t worry, you’re not alone! This is a common issue that many bakers face. The good news is that there are a few simple tips and tricks that can help you achieve perfectly cooked cookie bars every time. First, make sure you are using the correct baking temperature and time as stated in the recipe. Adjusting these factors can greatly affect the texture of your baked goods. Additionally, be mindful of the size and thickness of your cookie bars. Thicker bars may require longer baking times to ensure they are fully cooked. Another helpful tip is to use an oven thermometer to ensure that your oven is heating at the correct temperature. With a little practice and experimentation, you’ll soon be enjoying deliciously cooked cookie bars that are perfectly golden and moist in the center. Don’t give up, keep trying and you’ll get there!

What is the difference between a cookie and a cookie bar?

If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between a cookie and a cookie bar, you’re not alone! Both of these sweet treats are beloved by many, but there are a few key distinctions between the two. A traditional cookie is typically round in shape and baked individually on a baking sheet. It’s usually soft and chewy, with a slightly crisp exterior. On the other hand, a cookie bar is baked in a square or rectangular pan and then cut into bars or squares. It’s denser and thicker than a regular cookie, often with a more cake-like texture. So whether you prefer the classic cookie or the hearty cookie bar, both are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

What is the difference between a bar and a cookie?

Are you curious about the difference between a bar and a cookie? Well, let me enlighten you! While both are delicious treats, there are a few key distinctions. A cookie is typically a small, round baked dessert made from dough that is sweetened and flavored with ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. On the other hand, a bar is a larger dessert that is usually rectangular in shape and made by baking a mixture of ingredients like oats, nuts, and sweeteners in a pan. So, while cookies are bite-sized and perfect for indulging in one or two at a time, bars offer a heartier portion size and are great for sharing or enjoying as a satisfying snack. Whether you prefer the soft and chewy texture of a cookie or the denser and more substantial bite of a bar, both options are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

4 from 6 votes

Dream Bars

Dream Bars are decadent chocolate, coconut, and pecan bars layered on a graham cracker crust. Once you've tried them you will dream up excuses to make them again.
Servings 18 bars
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Put the pan in preheated oven (350°F).
  • Melt the butter and mix it into the graham cracker crumbs. Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9 X 9-inch baking pan.
  • Add a layer of chopped nuts, a layer of mini chocolate chips, and a layer of toasted coconut flakes.
  • Pour a can of sweetened condensed milk over the top of the bars.
  • Bake for 14 - 18 minutes or until golden brown on top.
  • Cool for 1 hour prior to cutting.

Video

Calories: 257kcal
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: bar cookies, cookie bars, crazy good bars, dream bars

Nutrition

Serving: 1bar | Calories: 257kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 128mg | Potassium: 94mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 249IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 28mg | Iron: 1mg

Join the Conversation

  1. Anonymous says:

    5 stars
    I make 7-Layer Bars or Magic Cookie Bars in a 9 x 13 pan. Recipe is very similar. I use either 2 c. choc bits or 1 c. each of choc & butterscotch bits.

    They’re one of my faves and are now a favorite of my grandkids.

    1. Doctor Jo Author says:

      Your recipe sounds delicious as well. How wonderful to have grandkids you bake for. Thanks for the rating.

  2. 5 stars
    These are so good. My husband adores them

    1. Doctor Joanette Author says:

      Thank you for your comment and Farmer Fred also loves them.

  3. 5 stars
    Love this recipe. So Yum!

    1. Doctor Joanette Author says:

      Yay, I’m glad you tried it and love it. Thanks for leaving your comment.

  4. Kelly Walters says:

    I made these as a teenager living at home, but I don’t remember putting coconut in them . So yummy

    1. Doctor Joanette Author says:

      Thank you for the comment. I think that one of the things that makes these bars so great is the ability to customize them depending on preferences and availability of toppings. I would love it if you would be so kind as to also give them a star rating as well. Thank you.

4 from 6 votes (3 ratings without comment)

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