Enchanted Magic Cookie Bars: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion Recipe
Enchanted Magic Cookie Bars are a luscious layered dessert combining a tender buttery crust, a creamy vanilla-infused cream cheese layer, and a rich chocolate topping. Perfect for any occasion, these bars offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Author: Clara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Crust Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all‑purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Chocolate Topping
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup (optional, for shine)
- Preparing the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Drizzle the melted butter over the dry ingredients and use a fork to stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of a prepared baking dish to form the crust base.
- Baking the Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Whisk in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, mixing until fully combined. Pour this cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust.
- Assembling and Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and unsalted butter together by heating in 20-second bursts, stirring well between each, until smooth and fully melted. Optionally, stir in the light corn syrup to give the chocolate topping a glossy finish. Pour the melted chocolate topping evenly over the cream cheese layer. Bake the assembled bars in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the layers are set and the chocolate topping is slightly firm. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Press the crust firmly and evenly to create a solid base that holds well during slicing.
- The light corn syrup in the chocolate topping is optional but helps to achieve a shiny finish on the bars.
- Allow the bars to cool completely or refrigerate before cutting to get clean, neat slices.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Keywords: Magic Cookie Bars, Cream Cheese Bars, Chocolate Dessert, Layered Bars, Easy Baking Recipe