A Seven Layer Bar Cake is a fun and decadent dessert inspired by the classic seven-layer bars (also known as Magic Bars). It combines layers of coconut, chocolate, butterscotch, and nuts in a cake form. Each layer is rich and indulgent, making it the ultimate treat for special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Cake Layers:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Seven-Layer Filling:
- 1 ¼ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-4 tbsp heavy cream or milk
Garnish (Optional):
- Extra shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or nuts for topping
Directions
1. Make the Cake Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Seven-Layer Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded coconut, chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, chopped nuts, and graham cracker crumbs.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Pour the condensed milk mixture over the coconut-chocolate mixture and stir until everything is fully combined. Set aside.
3. Make the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed until combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and 2-4 tablespoons of heavy cream, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Adjust the consistency with more cream if needed.
4. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cake layers are completely cool, level them by trimming off any domed tops.
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of the seven-layer filling on top.
- Add the second cake layer, and repeat with more filling.
- Place the third cake layer on top, then frost the entire cake with the vanilla buttercream, smoothing out the top and sides.
5. Garnish (Optional):
- Sprinkle extra shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts on top of the cake for decoration.
- Chill the cake in the fridge for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving to set the layers.
This Seven Layer Bar Cake is a deliciously nostalgic dessert that combines all the best elements of a classic seven-layer bar in cake form! Let me know if you’d like to modify any ingredients or need additional tips.