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Irresistible Chewy Mixed Berry Magic Bars

chewy mixed berry magic bars - featured image

These chewy mixed berry magic bars combine a buttery crust with luscious berries and a crunchy topping, making a quick and easy homemade dessert perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets, finely crushed)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • A pinch of sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until evenly moistened with no dry spots.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes until set and lightly golden.
  4. While the crust bakes, toss mixed berries with brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and lemon zest in a bowl.
  5. Once the crust is slightly cooled (about 5 minutes), evenly spread the berry mixture over it gently.
  6. In a small bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped nuts (if using), and honey or maple syrup. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the berries.
  7. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the topping is golden and berries are bubbly.
  8. Remove from oven and let the bars cool completely on a rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.
  9. Cut into 16 squares and serve.

Notes

Press the crust firmly to prevent crumbling. Keep butter melted but not hot to avoid texture issues. Handle berries gently to prevent sogginess. Let bars cool completely before slicing to maintain shape. Add extra flour if berries release too much juice.

Nutrition

Keywords: mixed berry bars, chewy dessert bars, magic bars, easy berry dessert, homemade dessert, berry magic bars, quick dessert