Name: Irresistible Hello Dolly Bars: Gooey Goodness in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp softened butter (Greases the pan to prevent sticking; you can also use non-stick spray for convenience.); 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (Forms a crunchy base; try substituting with vanilla wafer crumbs for a twist.); 1/2 cup salted butter, melted (Adds moisture and rich flavor to the crust.); 3 Tbsp granulated sugar (Sweetens the crust; you can reduce the sugar for a less sweet profile if desired.); 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (Provides a rich chocolatey flavor; feel free to swap half with milk or dark chocolate chips.); 1 1/2 cups roughly chopped pecans (Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts or peanuts can be used as substitutes.); 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut (Offers a chewy texture and sweetness; consider using unsweetened coconut for a less sugary end result.); 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz) (Binds all layers together with creamy goodness; low-fat versions work too.)

As I was sifting through family recipes, my eyes landed on an old favorite—the Hello Dolly Bars. This nostalgic dessert, also known as Magic Cookie Bars, brings together layers of chocolatey goodness, crunchy pecans, and coconut bliss atop a buttery graham cracker crust. What makes these bars even more appealing is how incredibly easy they are to whip up—perfect for those hectic days when you crave something sweet without the fuss! Whether you’re prepping for a holiday gathering or just need a pick-me-up after a long day, Hello Dolly Bars deliver irresistible charm and delightful flavors in every bite. Ready to treat yourself to this simple yet enchanting dessert?

Why are Hello Dolly Bars so special?

Nostalgic flavors: Hello Dolly Bars evoke cherished memories of childhood baking adventures, making every bite a trip down memory lane.
Effortless prep: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, these bars are perfect for busy individuals looking to whip up a sweet treat without the hassle.
Crowd-friendly dessert: Ideal for gatherings, they’re sure to please guests of all ages, adding fun to any celebration!
Versatile options: Get creative by swapping ingredients like nuts or chocolate varieties, ensuring you can tailor them to your taste.
No-fuss baking: With just one pan and straightforward instructions, you can have delicious bars ready in no time—perfect for those craving homemade goodness without the stress. Try them alongside our Harvest Marble Bars for even more delightful options!

Hello Dolly Bars Ingredients

For the Crust
• 1 Tbsp softened butter – Greases the pan to prevent sticking; you can also use non-stick spray for convenience.
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs – Forms a crunchy base; try substituting with vanilla wafer crumbs for a twist.
• 1/2 cup salted butter, melted – Adds moisture and rich flavor to the crust; if preferred, unsalted butter is a great alternative.
• 3 Tbsp granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust; you can reduce the sugar for a less sweet profile if desired.
For the Layers
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided) – Provides a rich chocolatey flavor; feel free to swap half with milk or dark chocolate chips for a unique taste.
• 1 1/2 cups roughly chopped pecans – Adds delightful crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts or peanuts can be used as substitutes.
• 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut – Offers a chewy texture and sweetness; consider using unsweetened coconut for a less sugary end result.
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk – Binds all layers together with creamy goodness; low-fat versions work too, but avoid fat-free for best results.

These Hello Dolly Bars ingredients combine to create a heavenly treat that’s sure to become a household favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hello Dolly Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 13×9-inch baking pan, line it with aluminum foil allowing some overhang for easy removal, and grease the foil with 1 tablespoon of softened butter or non-stick spray. This step ensures your Hello Dolly Bars release easily after baking, providing a smooth finish when you lift them out.

Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup of melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, ensuring it’s evenly packed. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, until it looks set and lightly golden.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Once the crust is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately sprinkle 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly across the warm crust. Next, add 1½ cups of roughly chopped pecans, followed by 1 cup of sweetened flaked coconut. Finally, top it all off with the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips to create a delicious layering effect.

Step 4: Drizzle the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Open a 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk and drizzle it evenly over the layered ingredients in the pan. This creamy layer binds all the textures together and adds sweetness. Make sure to cover the toppings generously, allowing the milk to seep down into the layers for that signature gooey goodness in every bite of your Hello Dolly Bars.

Step 5: Bake the Bars
Place the layered pan back into the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, looking for bubbly edges and a light golden color on top; this indicates that the bars are almost ready. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the Hello Dolly Bars to cool in the pan on a wire cooling rack. Let them cool completely, which is crucial for setting the layers. After cooling, lift the bars out using the foil overhang and slice them into squares to serve, enjoying the delightful contrast of textures in each piece.

Expert Tips for Hello Dolly Bars

Pack the Crust: Ensure the graham cracker crust is firmly packed into the pan to avoid crumbling when slicing.
Grease and Line: Using aluminum foil with an overhang makes for easy removal. Don’t skip greasing to prevent tearing.
Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting; slicing them while warm increases the chances of them falling apart.
Layer Generously: Be generous with the chocolate chips and coconut layers for the ultimate gooey experience in your Hello Dolly Bars.
Change It Up: Experiment with different types of nuts or flavored chips to tailor these delicious bars to your taste preferences.

What to Serve with Hello Dolly Bars?

Satisfy your cravings for a complete dessert experience with delightful pairings that elevate your Hello Dolly Bars.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the gooey layers of the bars, creating a heavenly combination.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a vibrant touch and a burst of tartness, balancing the sweetness of the bars.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Elevate those chocolatey flavors by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the bars, intensifying their rich goodness for every bite.
Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream provides a delightful creamy contrast, making each bite of Hello Dolly Bars even more indulgent and satisfying.
Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee balances the sweetness and rich flavors, providing a cozy pairing that warms the heart.
Mint Tea: Refreshing mint tea acts as a palate cleanser, allowing the layers of chocolate and coconut to shine through while soothing after a sweet treat.
Nutty Cookie Crumble: Crumbled cookies sprinkled on top give an exciting crunch and add a layered texture that complements the bar’s gooeyness beautifully.
Sparkling Lemonade: A glass of bubbly lemonade adds a refreshing citrus twist, perfect for brightening the sweet experience, especially in warm weather.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce adds depth and extra sweetness, making these layers even more decadent.

Make Ahead Options

These Hello Dolly Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can prepare the graham cracker crust up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the crust and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also measure and combine the dry ingredients for the layers (chocolate chips, coconut, and pecans) and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to finish the bars, simply layer the stored ingredients on top of the prepared crust, drizzle with sweetened condensed milk, and bake as directed. This method ensures your Hello Dolly Bars are just as delicious, even when prepped ahead!

How to Store and Freeze Hello Dolly Bars

Room Temperature: Store Hello Dolly Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and tasty.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just remember to keep them in an airtight container to maintain their gooey texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. This will revive that gooey goodness that everyone loves!

Hello Dolly Bars: Flavorful Customizations

Feel free to personalize your Hello Dolly Bars with these delightful twists that invite your creativity into the kitchen!

Dairy-Free: Substitute regular butter with vegan butter and use coconut condensed milk for a creamy vegan version.
This alteration makes the bars just as rich without the dairy, perfect for lactose-intolerant friends!
Nut-Free: Replace nuts with additional chocolate chips or seeds, like sunflower seeds, for crunch.
This ensures everyone can enjoy the bars without allergy concerns, providing a delightful treat for all!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chocolate layer for a surprising heat.
This twist brings a little warmth to the sweetness, capturing adventurous palates looking for excitement in every bite!
Flavorful Boost: Swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for flavored chips, such as mint or orange.
This adds a refreshing twist that makes every bite a new experience, perfect for the holiday season or summer gatherings.
Texture Twists: Incorporate crushed pretzels in place of a portion of the graham cracker crumbs for a salty crunch.
This creates a delightful sweet-and-salty contrast everyone will love, adding a unique texture to the base!
Fruit Fusion: Mix in dried fruits like cherries or apricots alongside the coconut for a fruity zing.
This not only adds a pop of flavor but also enhances the beautiful layers of your Hello Dolly Bars.
Chocolate Lovers: Double the amount of chocolate chips for an extra gooey experience.
This indulgent variation elevates the classic bars for those who simply can’t resist more chocolate!

Explore these delightful variations to discover a version of Hello Dolly Bars that resonates with your unique tastes! And if you’re looking for another sweet treat, don’t forget to check out our Harvest Marble Bars for more inspiration!

Hello Dolly Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ingredients for Hello Dolly Bars?
Absolutely! For the crust, use fresh graham cracker crumbs that aren’t stale, as freshness contributes to the best texture. Choose chocolate chips that you love—semi-sweet for a rich flavor or you can even mix it up with milk or dark chocolate. When selecting pecans, opt for halves or pieces that are crunchy and aromatic. The coconut should be sweetened and flaked for that perfect chewy bite.

How should I store Hello Dolly Bars?
Very simply! Store your Hello Dolly Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in the same airtight container for up to a week. Remember, keeping them sealed helps maintain their gooey charm.

Can I freeze Hello Dolly Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them briefly in the microwave for that gooey goodness you love.

What should I do if my Hello Dolly Bars are too crumbly?
If your bars turn out crumbly, it could be that the crust wasn’t packed firmly enough. Next time, be sure to press the graham cracker mixture down tightly into the pan. You could also try using a bit more butter in the crust to help bind it together. Lastly, allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting is crucial—give them time to set!

Are Hello Dolly Bars safe for my pets?
Definitely not! While the Hello Dolly Bars are a delicious treat for humans, they contain chocolate and nuts, both of which can be harmful to pets, especially dogs. It’s best to keep these scrumptious bars out of paw’s reach and treat your fur babies to some dog-safe snacks instead.

Can I make any substitutions for a healthier version?
Very much so! You can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with whole-grain versions for added fiber. If you want to cut down on sugar, consider using a low-calorie sweetened condensed milk or even a low-fat version. Unsweetened coconut can also help reduce sugar levels while still keeping that lovely coconut texture!