: Fruit Cake 7-Layer Bars

Directions

Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking these bars, allowing them to set and become golden around the edges without overcooking. While the oven is heating, line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will ensure that the bars don’t stick to the pan and make it easier to lift them out later. Lightly spray the parchment paper with cooking spray to further prevent sticking and make removal even smoother after baking.

Prepare the Base Layer:

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix them together until the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter. The butter helps bind the crumbs together, creating a rich, buttery base for the bars. Once the mixture is fully combined, press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared 9×13-inch pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press the crumbs down firmly, ensuring they are compacted. This base layer provides a solid foundation for the other ingredients and will hold the bars together once they are baked.

Add the Toppings:

Once the graham cracker base is prepared, start layering the fruit and nuts. Begin by evenly sprinkling the chopped candied cherries and pineapple over the base. The combination of the red and green cherries and yellow pineapple will add a beautiful pop of color to the bars, making them festive and visually appealing. Next, sprinkle the golden raisins and chopped almonds over the fruit. The raisins contribute a chewy sweetness, while the almonds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor. Finally, sprinkle the shredded coconut on top. The coconut will toast slightly as the bars bake, adding a rich, aromatic flavor.

Pour the Sweetened Condensed Milk:

Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire surface of the bars. The condensed milk will soak into the layers, binding everything together while also adding a creamy sweetness to the mixture. Be sure to spread it out evenly so that every bit of the topping is coated. The milk will form a golden, gooey layer that will hold the fruits, nuts, and coconut in place while baking.

Bake the Bars: