Classic Hello Dolly 7-Layer Cookie Bars Recipe

Why are these called Hello Dolly Bars?

They’re commonly called 7 Layer Bars because of the layered ingredients. The name “Hello Dolly” became popular when the dessert gained wide recognition in the 1960s, around the same time the Broadway musical Hello, Dolly! was popular.

Rebecca’s Recipe Review

Taste: A decadent combination of chocolate, coconut, butterscotch and pecans that yields a truly indulgent dessert.

Texture: Gooey and chewy with a slightly crisp graham crust.

Ease: 4/10 — straightforward steps, but the sweetened condensed milk and multiple layers mean you’ll want to follow the order carefully.

Pros: Ideal for gatherings, highly customizable and quick to assemble.

Cons: Very sweet — adjust portions or mix-ins if you prefer a less sugary treat.

Would I make this again? Yes.

Made these today – so easy! Very rich but perfect for taking to my group meeting! Thanks

– Lori

Ingredients For Hello Dolly Bars

The base is a simple graham cracker crust made from graham cracker crumbs, melted butter and a pinch of salt. The filling layers typically include sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, chopped pecans and sweetened shredded coconut.

You can customize the bars by swapping chips (white chocolate, peanut butter, milk or dark chocolate) or changing the nuts (almonds, walnuts, or mixed nuts). Small substitutions make these bars suit your personal taste.

How To Make Hello Dolly Bars

Start by preheating the oven and lining an 8×8-inch pan with parchment. Layer the ingredients and bake until set.

1. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter and salt; press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
2. Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust.
3. Sprinkle half of the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips and pecans over the condensed milk.
4. Scatter the coconut over the chips, then add the remaining chips and nuts on top and gently press everything down.
5. Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes, until the top is golden and the center still has a slight jiggle. Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Rebecca’s Tips

• To make a 9×13-inch batch, double all ingredients except the sweetened condensed milk; bake 30–35 minutes.
• Layering the coconut in the middle rather than all on top keeps it from getting overly toasted and gives a more attractive finish.
• Use a pan with straight sides for even baking and cleaner slices.
• Adding a bit more salt to the crust balances the overall sweetness.
• Pulse graham crackers in a food processor until fine so the crust holds together well and has a uniform texture.

How To Store Seven Layer Bars

Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days. Refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze up to 3 months.

Check out more popular dessert bar recipes that are crowd-pleasers!

• Apple Cheesecake Bars – Cinnamon-baked apples with an oatmeal crumb topping.
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars – Thick, chewy bars loaded with chocolate chips and M&M’s.
• Best Ever Blueberry Cheesecake Bars – A fruity, creamy dessert option.
• Peanut Butter Bars – A classic five-ingredient dessert that’s quick to make.
• Peanut Butter S’mores Bars – Packed with graham, peanut butter cookies, marshmallows and chocolate.