Print

Creamy French Vanilla Bean Magic Bars

creamy french vanilla bean magic bars - featured image
Print Recipe

These creamy French vanilla bean magic bars combine a buttery graham cracker crust with a rich vanilla bean custard layer, coconut flakes, chocolate chips, and optional nuts for a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, finely crushed)
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 whole vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until crumbs are evenly coated and resemble wet sand.
  3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking pan, creating an even 1/4-inch thick layer. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press down tightly.
  4. Bake the crust for 8 minutes until toasty and buttery.
  5. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, scraped vanilla bean seeds, and vanilla extract until glossy and fragrant.
  6. Remove crust from oven and immediately sprinkle shredded coconut evenly over it, followed by chocolate chips and chopped nuts if using.
  7. Pour the vanilla bean cream evenly over the toppings and gently spread with a spatula.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are golden brown and center is just set but slightly soft.
  9. Cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least one hour if not serving immediately.
  10. Cut into 16 squares using a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts for neat edges.

Notes

Press the crust firmly to prevent crumbling. Use a real vanilla bean for best flavor and visual appeal. Avoid overbaking to keep bars moist and creamy. Cool completely before cutting for neat slices. Refrigerate bars if not serving immediately. For dairy-free, use coconut condensed milk and vegan butter. For gluten-free, substitute almond flour for graham cracker crumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: vanilla bean, magic bars, creamy dessert, easy dessert, homemade bars, vanilla custard, graham cracker crust, coconut, chocolate chips

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/creamy-french-vanilla-bean-magic-bars-recipe-easy-homemade-dessert-idea/