Name: Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 2/3 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 cup seedless raspberry preserves (or preferred flavor); 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 3 cups sweetened, flaked coconut; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips; 1/3 cup white baking chips; 1 teaspoon shortening

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 49 reviews

If you are craving a dessert that’s bursting with fruity sweetness, rich textures, and a delightful tropical twist, the Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe is your go-to treat. Picture layers of buttery graham cracker crust topped with luscious raspberry preserves, then covered in a gooey sweetened condensed milk layer, sprinkled with shredded coconut, crunchy pecans, and both semi-sweet and white chocolate chips. This bar recipe hits all the right notes for a perfect dessert that’s simple enough for weeknight baking but special enough to impress everyone at your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six square bars on a sheet of parchment paper with a white marbled texture underneath. Each bar has three layers: a crumbly, light brown base at the bottom, a smooth light cream layer in the middle, and a thick, bright red berry layer on top with visible seeds and chunks. On the very top of each bar, there is a pile of white shredded coconut adding texture and contrast. The bars are arranged in two columns and three rows, evenly spaced. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the vibrant flavors and textures in every bite. From the crumbly base to the sweet and nutty toppings, every component is essential to nail this delicious Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe.

1 and 2/3 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides a crisp, buttery foundation with just the right amount of crunch.
1/2 cup butter (1 stick), melted: Binds the crust together and adds rich, creamy flavor.
2 tablespoons sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to enhance the crust.
3 cups sweetened, flaked coconut: Brings tropical chewiness and sweetness.
One 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk: The magic ingredient that creates a smooth, gooey layer that holds everything together.
1 cup seedless raspberry preserves: Bursts with fruity tartness and vibrant color that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet layers.
1/2 cup chopped pecans: Adds crunch and a toasty, nutty flavor profile.
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips: Provides rich chocolate hits that balance the sweetness.
1/3 cup white baking chips: Offers creamy bursts of sweet contrast and looks beautiful on top.
1 teaspoon shortening: Helps prevent the white chocolate chips from melting too much while baking.

How to Make Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Begin by crushing your graham crackers into fine crumbs—this will be the sturdy yet crumbly foundation of your bars. Mix these crumbs with the melted butter and sugar until the texture is sandy but holds together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined baking pan. This step sets the stage, creating a flavorful and textured crust that will support all the luscious layers above.

Step 2: Add the Raspberry Layer

Generously spread the seedless raspberry preserves over the entire crust, reaching every edge to create a vibrant, fruity base layer. This tart, sweet jam adds a refreshing pop of flavor that perfectly complements the rich coconut and chocolate toppings that follow.

Step 3: Pour on the Condensed Milk

Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the raspberry spread. To ensure it covers the preserves well without mixing layers, gently swirl it with the back of a spoon if needed. This layer will melt and bind everything together as you bake, creating the gooey magic the bars are known for.

Step 4: Top with Coconut and Nuts

Sprinkle the flaked coconut and chopped pecans evenly over the condensed milk layer. Press these toppings down gently to make sure they stick and bake into the bars. These add that irresistible combination of chewiness from the coconut and crunch from the pecans, both essential for texture contrast.

Step 5: Scatter Chocolate Chips

Next, scatter the semisweet and white chocolate chips evenly on top, keeping some white chips aside for garnish later if desired. The white baking chips mixed with semisweet balance sweetness and bitterness perfectly, and adding shortening helps them keep their shape instead of melting away.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bars for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges turn a beautiful golden color and the aroma fills your kitchen. This is when all the flavors marry together, and the bars set to the perfect tender yet chewy consistency.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling is crucial because it helps the layers firm up, making them easier to slice and ensuring every bite holds its amazing texture without crumbling.

How to Serve Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe

Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, sprinkle a few fresh raspberries or a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving. Toasted coconut flakes or whole pecans also make beautiful garnishes and amplify the textural delight of each bar.

Side Dishes

Serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the experience. A cup of hot coffee or a fragrant tea complements the sweetness and gives a perfect balance to this indulgent dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re bringing these bars to a party or gifting them, cut into neat squares and arrange on a pretty platter with doilies underneath. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine adds a lovely homemade feel that friends and family will absolutely adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerated for up to a week. Keeping them covered ensures they stay moist and flavorful without drying out.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully, making them perfect for preparing in advance. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer warm bars, gently reheat them in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. This will soften the chocolate chips and condensed milk layer, giving you that freshly baked warmth all over again.

FAQs

Can I use raspberry jam with seeds in this recipe?

Absolutely! While seedless raspberry preserves provide a smoother texture, using preserves with seeds adds a bit of extra texture and rustic charm. Just be mindful that the seeds might slightly affect the smoothness of the bars.

What can I substitute if I don’t have pecans?

Feel free to swap pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts for a different flavor. You can also omit nuts entirely if you want a nut-free version, though you’ll lose some crunch.

Is there a vegan version of this Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe?

While this recipe relies on sweetened condensed milk and butter, you can experiment with vegan condensed milk alternatives and plant-based butter substitutes. Keep in mind the texture and taste may vary slightly, but it’s definitely worth a try!

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or substitute with finely crushed gluten-free cookies to keep the base intact. Just make sure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free for safety.

How thick should I press the crust before baking?

Press the graham cracker crust firmly but evenly into the pan to form about a half-inch thick layer. This ensures a sturdy base that holds all the layers without crumbling when you cut into the bars.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Raspberry Coconut Magic Bars Recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how a few simple ingredients come together to create such a wonderful, crowd-pleasing dessert. The balance of textures and flavors is pure magic, and once you taste these bars, you’ll want to make them again and again. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in your new favorite treat!