These Fruit Cake 7-Layer Bars are a delightful twist on the classic 7-layer bars, combining the flavors of traditional fruit cake with layers of sweet, crunchy, and gooey goodness. With candied fruit, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, and a mix of chocolate, these bars are rich, festive, and easy to make. I love baking them around the holidays for a fun, colorful dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Each layer brings a unique flavor, making every bite a delightful surprise!
Why You’ll Like This Recipe
These Fruit Cake 7-Layer Bars are a perfect holiday treat, combining classic fruit cake ingredients in an easy-to-make, bar format. The graham cracker crust is buttery and crumbly, while the layers of coconut, chocolate, and candied fruit add festive colors and flavors. Plus, they’re made in just one pan and require no special equipment, making them a great choice for holiday baking or gift-giving.
Recipe: Fruit Cake 7-Layer Bars
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup candied mixed fruit (such as cherries and pineapple)
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, stirring until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking pan, creating an even crust layer.
Step 2: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust, spreading it with a spatula if needed to cover the entire base.
Step 3: Layer the Toppings
Sprinkle the candied mixed fruit, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and white chocolate chips evenly over the condensed milk layer. Gently press down the toppings to ensure they stick to the milk and crust.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the top is lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy these deliciously layered treats as a festive holiday dessert or a sweet snack!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
Serve these Fruit Cake 7-Layer Bars at room temperature. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as a treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Storage:
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 10 days or freeze for up to a month.
Helpful Notes
- Press Toppings Firmly: Gently press the toppings into the condensed milk layer before baking to help them stick together.
- Customize the Nuts: Pecans and walnuts work well, but you can also use almonds or hazelnuts if preferred.
- Candied Fruit Variations: Feel free to use your favorite combination of candied fruits or even add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a unique twist.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, a shortbread or gingerbread crust would add an extra layer of flavor and work well with the other ingredients.
Q2: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free sweetened condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Q3: Can I substitute the candied fruit?
Yes! Try using dried fruit like cranberries, raisins, or apricots if you prefer a less sweet option.
Q4: Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! You can add a sprinkle of toffee bits, mini marshmallows, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor.
Q5: How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easier to lift the bars out of the pan once they’re cooled.
Final Thoughts
These Fruit Cake 7-Layer Bars are a festive and flavorful twist on classic holiday treats. With layers of candied fruit, chocolate, nuts, and coconut, they capture the essence of fruit cake while offering a modern and fun twist. Perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply treating yourself, these bars are sure to impress. Enjoy each bite of this colorful, delicious dessert!
Fruit Cake 7-Layer Bars
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup candied mixed fruit such as cherries and pineapple
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, stirring until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking pan, creating an even crust layer.
Step 2: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust, spreading it with a spatula if needed to cover the entire base.
Step 3: Layer the Toppings
- Sprinkle the candied mixed fruit, shredded coconut, chopped nuts, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and white chocolate chips evenly over the condensed milk layer. Gently press down the toppings to ensure they stick to the milk and crust.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the top is lightly browned. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy these deliciously layered treats as a festive holiday dessert or a sweet snack!
Notes
- Press Toppings Firmly: Gently press the toppings into the condensed milk layer before baking to help them stick together.
- Customize the Nuts: Pecans and walnuts work well, but you can also use almonds or hazelnuts if preferred.
- Candied Fruit Variations: Feel free to use your favorite combination of candied fruits or even add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a unique twist.
