Dream Bars are a delightful treat that’s quick to prepare, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings in under 30 minutes! These bar cookies boast a rich combination of flavors and textures, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or as a special indulgence for yourself.
Dream Bars Recipe
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 12-24 pieces
Ingredients:
- 18 graham wafers (divided)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup flaked coconut
- 1 cup cherries, chopped
- 1 cup icing sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- Cream (enough to achieve desired icing consistency)
Instructions:
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Prepare Pan:
- Lightly butter an 8-inch square cake pan.
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Layer Graham Wafers:
- Line the bottom of the pan with half of the graham wafers. Cut an extra wafer if needed to fill in any gaps.
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Prepare Filling:
- In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, 1/2 cup butter, and milk. Bring to a full boil.
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Mix in Ingredients:
- Remove from heat and immediately stir in graham wafer crumbs, chopped walnuts, flaked coconut, and chopped cherries.
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Assemble Bars:
- Spoon the hot mixture evenly over the layer of graham wafers in the pan.
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Add Top Layer:
- Arrange the remaining graham wafers on top of the filling. Again, cut an extra wafer if necessary to cover the surface completely.
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Press Down Firmly:
- Press down firmly to compact the layers.
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Prepare Icing:
- In a bowl, combine icing sugar, 1 tablespoon of butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, and enough cream to achieve a thick, spreadable icing consistency.
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Ice Bars:
- Spread the icing evenly over the top layer of graham wafers.
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Garnish:
- Sprinkle finely-chopped walnuts over the icing for added texture and flavor.
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Set and Serve:
- Let the Dream Bars stand overnight to set completely.
- Cut into squares before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 434.6
- Total Fat: 21.5g
- Saturated Fat: 9.3g
- Cholesterol: 28.2mg
- Sodium: 266.2mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 59.1g
- Fiber: 1.7g
- Sugar: 44g
- Protein: 4.1g
Tips for Perfect Dream Bars:
- Crumb Consistency: Ensure the graham wafer crumbs are finely ground for a smooth, even texture in the filling.
- Firm Press: Press down firmly on the layers to compact them together, preventing the bars from crumbling when sliced.
- Icing Thickness: Adjust the amount of cream added to the icing to achieve the right consistency—thick enough to spread smoothly but not too runny.
Enjoy these Dream Bars as a quick and delicious dessert option that’s sure to be a hit wherever they’re served! Whether for a family gathering, a potluck, or simply as a sweet treat after a long day, these bars offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
