7 Layer Reese’s Bars – Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Treat

Last updated on August 26, 2025

There’s a sweet spot in our memories that often brings us back to moments spent in the kitchen, surrounding ourselves with family and laughter. For me, one of those moments was making a delicious, gooey batch of 7 Layer Reese’s Bars with my kids on a rainy afternoon. The blend of chocolate, peanut butter, and crunchy textures had the entire house smelling divine. Every bite transports me back to that cozy kitchen, where my little helpers were eagerly waiting for the oven timer to ding, excited to taste the magical creation we had made together.

If you’ve ever craved a dessert that’s not only decadently delicious but also easy to whip up, then you’re in the right place. In this post, I’ll guide you through how to make 7 Layer Reese’s Bars—simple enough for beginners, yet impressive enough to wow your friends. Trust me; you’ll find this recipe is stress-free and totally doable—even if this is your very first time baking something this fun!

Why I Love This Recipe of How to Make 7 Layer Reese’s Bars

What has always drawn me to this recipe is its incredible simplicity and rich flavor—all layered in one heavenly bar. The combination of gooeyness from the sweetened condensed milk, the crunch from pecans, and the sweet surprise from mini Reese’s cups makes every bite a delightful journey. It’s a simple, nostalgic treat that’s perfect for celebrations, or just a cozy night in.

What I love most about these bars is that they cater to everyone’s taste buds, making them ideal for gatherings. Plus, they come together in a snap and require minimal equipment. For beginner cooks, this means fewer chances for mishaps and more opportunities for fun in the kitchen. It makes you look like a baking pro, even if you just followed a simple recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need for How to Make 7 Layer Reese’s Bars

To whip up these scrumptious bars, you’ll need some common ingredients that come together in a symphony of flavors. Here’s what to gather:

Essentials

1 stick of unsalted butter: The foundation of this recipe, melting the butter first creates a glistening layer that serves as glue for all the other delicious toppings.
1 1/2 cup of graham cracker crumbs: These provide that classic crust that makes every bite feel like a piece of nostalgia.
1/2 cup of peanut butter chips: These add a lovely hint of peanut butter flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips: Classic and always a crowd pleaser, these create that luscious layer of chocolate.
1/3 cup of mini Reese’s cups (chopped): Because what’s a Reese’s bar without actual Reese’s? They bring in the iconic peanut butter and chocolate combination.
1/3 cup of pecans (chopped): The nuts offer a delightful crunch.
14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk: The magical ingredient that brings everything together, turning the layers into a deliciously sweet treat.
1 1/4 cups of shredded coconut: A touch of coconut adds texture and an unexpected burst of flavor.

Optional Add-Ons

Feel free to customize with the following optional add-ons:

Drizzle of Nutella: A chocolate drizzle enhances the flavor and makes for a beautiful presentation.
Sea salt: Sprinkling a bit of flaky sea salt on top can heighten the sweetness and create a perfect balance of flavors.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, here are a few substitutions you can consider:

If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers are great alternatives.
For those who prefer a nut-free version, you can easily omit the chopped pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds.
Using chocolate bars instead of chocolate chips can also work well, simply chop them into smaller pieces.

How to Make How to Make 7 Layer Reese’s Bars Step-by-Step

Getting started on these bars is a straightforward process. Let’s dive into the steps to ensure that you don’t miss a thing!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab an 8×8 baking dish and line it with parchment paper, leaving some edges hanging over the sides. This makes it easier to lift out the bars once they’re done, ensuring perfect slices for serving later.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 stick of unsalted butter. This should take about 30-60 seconds in the microwave. Once melted, pour the butter evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Create the Graham Cracker Base

Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs over the melted butter. Use your hands to spread them out evenly, patting down firmly so that they form a cohesive base. This layer is crucial, as it provides a firm yet delightful foundation for the layers to come.

Step 4: Add the Layers

Now comes the fun part!

Sprinkle the peanut butter chips and chocolate chips evenly across the graham cracker crust.
Follow this by scattering the chopped mini Reese’s cups and chopped pecans on top of the chips, creating a colorful assortment that tempts your taste buds.

Step 5: Pour the Sweetened Condensed Milk

Carefully pour the 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk over the layered ingredients. Make sure to scrape every last drop from the can to ensure each bite is sweet and delicious. Spread it out gently to cover as much surface area as possible.

Step 6: Top with Shredded Coconut

Finally, sprinkle 1 1/4 cups of shredded coconut generously over the condensed milk layer. Lightly press the coconut down to help it adhere to the milk below. This step adds texture and a delightful chewiness to every slice.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 23 minutes. You’re waiting for the coconut to turn a light golden brown. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with a tantalizing aroma!

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This waiting period allows the bars to set a bit for easier slicing. With the parchment paper, gently lift the entire slab out of the dish and place it on a cutting board. Slice into squares or rectangles, depending on how big you want your treats.

And voilà! You’ve made 7 Layer Reese’s Bars that are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

As with any recipe, it’s easy to make a few missteps along the way. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

Skipping the Parchment Paper

Many individuals skip lining the baking dish with parchment paper, which can lead to a sticky mess when trying to cut the bars. Always use parchment to make serving easier.

Overbaking the Bars

It can be tempting to bake the bars a bit longer for a firmer texture. However, overbaking will lead to a dry and crumbly texture instead of the chewy, gooey layers we want. Always keep an eye on the oven.

Forgetting to Pat Down the Base

Forgetting to pat down the graham cracker crumbs can lead to a crust that’s too loose and crumbles apart when sliced. Make sure to press down firmly to create a solid base.

Not Allowing Enough Time to Cool

Patience is key! Skipping the cooling time or being in a rush to slice can result in messy, uneven bars. Let the bars cool at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions for How to Make 7 Layer Reese’s Bars

These 7 Layer Reese’s Bars are versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dessert platter:

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

Serving these bars warm alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream takes things to another creamy level and contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of the bars.

Drizzled with Melty Chocolate

If you love chocolate, a generous drizzle of melted chocolate over the bars before serving adds an extra indulgent touch. Simply melt chocolate chips or chocolate bars and use a spoon to create a beautiful drizzle.

Dusting with Powdered Sugar

A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance to serve. It’s simple but makes the bars look even more inviting and irresistible.

Pairing with Fresh Fruit

Serve your bars alongside slices of fresh strawberries or bananas. The bright, vibrant fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, dense bars.

Nutritional Values of How to Make 7 Layer Reese’s Bars

Understanding the nutritional values of this recipe can help you make informed decisions. Based on the ingredients, here’s a rough estimate of what to expect in one square (based on 16 servings):

Calories

One bar typically contains around 250 calories, making it a treat worth savoring but definitely not an everyday indulgence.

Fats

With the presence of butter, chocolate, and coconut, you can expect about 15 grams of fat, primarily from healthy fats.

Sugars

Each bar has roughly 20 grams of sugar, which comes from the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate, and other sweet ingredients.

Carbohydrates and Protein

Expect around 30 grams of carbs and about 4 grams of protein per serving. While it’s not a protein-packed snack, the bar offers a delightful energy source for a sweet craving.

Conclusion & Next Steps

In summary, making 7 Layer Reese’s Bars is easier than it looks! You can customize this recipe to fit your taste, whether you prefer extra crunch from nuts or a drizzle of chocolate. These bars are both cozy and classic, making them beginner-approved treats that are sure to become family favorites.

Now that you’ve learned how simple it is to create this culinary delight, I encourage you to gather your ingredients and give it a try. Share this sweet experience with your loved ones, and make some heartwarming memories in the kitchen.

Want to keep your baking skills sharp? Be sure to save this recipe for your future baking endeavors!

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FAQs About How to Make 7 Layer Reese’s Bars

Can I make 7 Layer Reese’s Bars ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

What can I substitute for the sweetened condensed milk?

If you want a dairy-free version, you can use coconut condensed milk as a substitute, which will add a delightful coconut taste as well.

How do I store the leftover bars?

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be refrigerated for longer freshness.

Can I freeze 7 Layer Reese’s Bars?

Yes! You can freeze them once they have cooled. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months.

Can I add different candies or toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your favorite candies, nuts, or even different chocolate chips to personalize your bars.

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