Pour sweetened condensed milk over whole unbroken graham cracker sheets in the clear glass 9×13 baking dish with 3 other pantry staples for a dessert so good your family will beg for it weekly
4-Ingredient Baked Graham Cracker Chocolate Bars
These easy graham cracker dessert bars combine crunchy crackers, rich chocolate chips, melted butter, and sweetened condensed milk to create a deliciously gooey treat. As the bars bake, the ingredients meld together into a sweet, golden dessert with a soft, chewy center and layers of chocolatey goodness. With only four ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or satisfying a sweet craving at home.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole graham cracker sheets | 12 |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 ounces) |
| Semisweet chocolate chips | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter, melted | ½ cup |
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch glass baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Create the bottom layer: Arrange 6 graham cracker sheets across the bottom of the dish, placing them close together. Break or trim pieces as needed to cover the surface evenly.
- Add the butter and chocolate: Drizzle the melted butter over the graham crackers, distributing it as evenly as possible. Sprinkle the chocolate chips across the surface.
- Add the top layer: Place the remaining 6 graham cracker sheets over the chocolate chips, creating a second layer. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the crackers, spreading it gently to cover the surface.
- Bake until golden: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the condensed milk begins to turn golden and bubbles appear around the edges.
- Cool and allow to set: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. For firmer bars and neater slices, refrigerate for an additional 20–30 minutes.
- Slice and serve: Cut the cooled dessert into bars using a sharp knife. Serve as a sweet snack, a simple after-dinner dessert, or a treat to share with friends and family.
Tips for the Best Results
- Arrange the crackers snugly: A close, even layer creates a more stable base for the dessert.
- Distribute the condensed milk evenly: Pour slowly so the topping can spread across the crackers.
- Allow enough cooling time: Cutting while the bars are still warm can cause the layers to shift or crumble.
- Use parchment paper: This makes lifting the cooled dessert from the pan easier and simplifies cleanup.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if you prefer a softer, gooier texture.
These simple graham cracker chocolate bars are a delicious way to turn everyday pantry ingredients into a rich, sweet dessert with very little effort.
