Hello Dolly Bars
Hello Dolly Bars are a delightful treat that effortlessly combines layers of sweet flavors and textures. They are simple to make but pack a punch in taste, making them a favorite among family and friends. In this recipe, we’ll explore a unique twist on the classic Hello Dolly Bars, using Mexican chocolate and a hint of ancho chile powder that adds a subtle warmth to the sweetness. Whether you’re preparing for a potluck or just looking for a sweet indulgence, these bars are sure to impress.
The Upside of Hello Dolly Bars
Hello Dolly Bars are incredibly versatile. You can customize them based on your preferences or dietary needs, and they require minimal effort for maximum reward. The layers of graham cracker, chocolate, nuts, and coconut create a chewy, crunchy, and downright delicious experience. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these bars in no time. Plus, they are perfect for sharing, making them ideal for gatherings or parties.
Ingredient Checklist
To make your own Hello Dolly Bars, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 sleeve (9 whole) graham crackers, broken into pieces
- 1 disk (3.15 ounces) Mexican chocolate, chopped
- 6 tablespoons (¾ stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground ancho chile powder
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds), hulled
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- One 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
Appliances & Accessories
Before you dive into making these delicious Hello Dolly Bars, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- 9×13-inch baking pan – This is where all the magic happens!
- Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking.
- Spatula – To spread and level your ingredients in the pan.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when pulling those bars out of the oven!
Mastering Hello Dolly Bars: How-To
Ready to create your own Hello Dolly Bars? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease your 9×13-inch baking pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This will help the bars come out easily once baked.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the broken graham crackers and melted butter. Stir until all the cracker pieces are coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
Sprinkle the chopped Mexican chocolate evenly over the graham cracker crust. Follow with the ground ancho chile powder, then layer the chopped pecans, pepitas, shredded coconut, and butterscotch chips.
Step 5: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top of the layered ingredients. This will bind everything together as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, cut into bars and serve.
Better Choices & Swaps
If you’re looking to make some adjustments to fit your dietary preferences or simply want to experiment, consider these swaps:
- Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.
- Substitute dark chocolate for the Mexican chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Replace butterscotch chips with white chocolate chips for a different sweetness.
- Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a nutty variation.
Don’t Do This
To ensure your Hello Dolly Bars turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:
- Don’t skip the melting of the butter; it’s crucial for the crust.
- Avoid overpacking the graham cracker crust; it should be firm but not too dense.
- Don’t rush the cooling process—cutting them too early can lead to messy bars.
- Be cautious not to overbake; you want them to be golden but not burnt.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Hello Dolly Bars fresh and delicious, follow these simple tips:
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Ask & Learn
Can I use different types of chocolate in Hello Dolly Bars?
Absolutely! While Mexican chocolate adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with semi-sweet or dark chocolate, depending on your taste preference.
Is it possible to make Hello Dolly Bars vegan?
Yes! You can use plant-based butter, dairy-free sweetened condensed milk, and dairy-free chocolate options to create a vegan version of Hello Dolly Bars.
How can I make these bars more festive?
For a festive touch, consider adding colorful sprinkles on top before baking or using seasonal ingredients like dried cranberries or chopped candied orange peel.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, Hello Dolly Bars are perfect for making ahead of time! They store well, allowing you to prepare them a few days in advance of an event.
Once you’ve mastered the art of Hello Dolly Bars, you might want to explore more sweet treats. Here are some delicious options:
Ready, Set, Cook
With this delightful recipe, you are all set to impress your friends and family with your homemade Hello Dolly Bars. Their unique blend of flavors, combined with the straightforward preparation, makes these bars a perfect addition to any gathering or a tasty treat for yourself. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a sweet experience that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat! Enjoy the layers of flavor and the joy of sharing these delicious bars with loved ones. Happy baking!
Hello Dolly Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Grease your 9x13-inch baking pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the broken graham crackers and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the chopped Mexican chocolate over the graham cracker crust. Layer with ground ancho chile powder, chopped pecans, pepitas, shredded coconut, and butterscotch chips.
- Step 5: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top.
- Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Step 7: Once baked, let cool completely, then cut into bars and serve.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- Wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
