15 Irresistible Dessert Bar Recipes You Need to Try

ByKristen Atwell

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I don’t know about you, but I have a serious weakness for dessert bars. There’s just something about biting into a perfectly chewy, gooey, or crunchy bar that hits the spot every time.

Whether it’s a classic brownie, a buttery crumble bar, or something loaded with caramel and chocolate, I’m always up for trying new recipes.

If you’re anything like me and love a good, sweet treat, you’re going to love these 15 irresistible dessert bar recipes.

They’re easy to make, perfect for sharing (or not—I won’t judge), and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

15 irresistible dessert bar recipes to try 1 Save
Table of contents

1) Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars

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Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars are a delightful twist on a classic treat.

With a chewy oatmeal cookie base layered with a creamy filling, these bars bring together the cozy flavors of vanilla and brown sugar.

Kids and adults alike will enjoy these bars, which are easy to slice and serve. Whether for dessert or a snack, they are sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups old-fashioned oats
  • 1 cup marshmallow fluff
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
  3. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture, then stir in the oats until well combined.
  4. Spread half of the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes.
  5. While the base is baking, prepare the filling by mixing the marshmallow fluff, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth.
  6. Once the base is done, spread the marshmallow filling evenly over it. Top with the remaining oatmeal mixture, spreading it over the filling.
  7. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Allow to cool before slicing into bars.

2) Lemon Bars

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Lemon bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balance tartness and sweetness.

They have a bright, zesty flavor that’s refreshing and invigorating, making them a favorite for dessert lovers.

Dust them with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance, and you’ve got a dessert that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
  2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
  4. Prepare the Filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, baking powder, and salt in a bowl until well combined.
  5. Pour the lemon filling over the warm crust and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
  6. Let cool completely before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

3) Magic Cheesecake Bars

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Magic Cheesecake Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich, creamy goodness of cheesecake with a chocolatey base and a hint of caramel.

Each bite is a delightful burst of creamy cheesecake layered over a fudgy chocolate crust, topped with a drizzle of chocolate.

Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a late-night dessert, they’re sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup caramel sauce
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for topping)
  • Optional: fresh berries and mint for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
  2. In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
  3. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
  4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the chocolate crust. Drizzle caramel sauce on top, and swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
  6. Once cooled, melt the chocolate chips and drizzle them over the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars. Serve with fresh berries and mint for a beautiful presentation.
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S’Mores cookie bars bring the classic camping treat to your kitchen in a fun and easy way.

With layers of graham cracker, chocolate, and gooey marshmallows, they’re a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

This recipe is straightforward, making it a great option for bakers of all levels.

The combination of crispy edges and a soft, chewy center makes these bars irresistible.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup chocolate syrup (for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the eggs and vanilla until well combined.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  4. Fold in the graham cracker crumbs and chocolate chips. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a crust.
  5. Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the crust, then spread the remaining cookie mixture on top, gently pressing it down.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
  7. Drizzle with chocolate syrup before cutting into bars. Enjoy your delicious S’Mores cookie bars!
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Sugar cookie bars are a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies, combining the soft, buttery flavor we all love into a simple, easy-to-make bar form.

These treats are sweet, chewy, and can be topped with icing and sprinkles, making them perfect for any occasion!

Whether for a party, holiday, or just a treat for yourself, these sugar cookie bars are sure to please everyone!

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • Sprinkles for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and both extracts.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the white chocolate chips.
  5. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
  6. Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles.
  7. Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious sugar cookie bars!
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Brown butter chocolate chip cookie bars are a delightful twist on the classic cookie, combining rich, nutty flavors with gooey chocolate.

The brown butter adds a depth of flavor that elevates the traditional chocolate chip cookie to something truly special.

These bars are great for sharing, and I guarantee they won’t last long!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Flaky sea salt, for topping

Instructions

  1. Brown the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  2. Mix the Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla, and beat until smooth.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
  4. Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Spread the cookie dough evenly in the pan.
  5. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is set. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt right after removing from the oven.
  6. Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into squares and enjoy!

7) Knock You Naked Bars

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Knock You Naked Bars are a delightful treat that combines layers of rich chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy nuts.

The bars are made with easy-to-find ingredients, bringing together chocolate chips, caramel, and your choice of nuts for extra flavor.

They’re perfect for sharing, but you might just want to keep them all to yourself!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup caramel bits
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work great)
  • 1/4 cup chocolate syrup (for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, oats, melted butter, baking soda, and salt until combined. The mixture will be crumbly.
  3. Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish to form a crust.
  4. Sprinkle chocolate chips and caramel bits evenly over the crust. Add the chopped nuts on top.
  5. Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the toppings, pressing it down gently.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Allow it to cool completely before cutting into bars.
  7. Drizzle chocolate syrup over the top before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

8) Mud Pie Bars with Chocolate Mousse

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Mud pie bars are a delightful treat that combine rich chocolate flavors with a creamy mousse topping.

These bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and make a fantastic dessert for any occasion.

With a thick, fudgy base and a light, airy mousse on top, each bite offers a wonderful contrast in textures.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup chocolate cookie crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix chocolate cookie crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
  2. Bake the Crust: Bake for about 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
  3. Make the Chocolate Filling: In a saucepan, melt the chocolate chips over low heat, stirring until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the melted chocolate until fully combined.
  4. Assemble: Pour the chocolate mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
  5. Add Whipped Cream: Once set, spread whipped cream over the chocolate layer and refrigerate again for 30 minutes before serving.

9) No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

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No-bake peanut butter bars are a delightful treat that combines creamy peanut butter, sweet honey, and a hint of chocolate.

They are rich and satisfying, perfect for those who love the classic peanut butter and chocolate duo.

Whether you enjoy them as a snack or dessert, these no-bake peanut butter bars are sure to please!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter and honey until smooth. Stir in rolled oats until fully incorporated.
  2. Press into Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish and press down evenly. Smooth the top with a spatula.
  3. Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
  4. Top Bars: Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed mixture and spread evenly. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top for added crunch.
  5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set. Once firm, cut into squares and enjoy!
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Chocolate Magic Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combines a rich chocolate base with layers of coconut, nuts, and chocolate chips.

These bars are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to whip up, making them perfect for any occasion.

Whether served at a party or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, these bars are sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup flaked coconut
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until well combined and press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the crust evenly, spreading it out with a spatula.
  4. Sprinkle the chocolate chips, coconut, and chopped nuts over the condensed milk layer.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.

11) Fried Ice Cream Dessert Bars

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Fried Ice Cream Dessert Bars bring a fun twist to a classic treat. These bars feature a creamy ice cream center enveloped in a crispy coating, which is then fried to perfection.

Not only do these bars taste fantastic, but they are also simple to make at home.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying on a cozy night in.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups vanilla ice cream
  • 2 cups crushed cornflakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Whipped cream for topping
  • Chocolate syrup for drizzling
  • Fresh fruit like strawberries and blueberries for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ice Cream: Scoop the ice cream into bars and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze for about 2 hours until solid.
  2. Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, mix flour with a bit of salt. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. In a third bowl, combine crushed cornflakes and cinnamon.
  3. Bread the Ice Cream: Take the frozen ice cream bars and dip each one first in the flour, then in the egg mixture, and finally coat with the cornflake mixture.
  4. Fry the Bars: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated ice cream bars in batches for about 30 seconds or until golden brown. Remove them and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  5. Serve: Top each bar with whipped cream, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and add fresh fruit as desired. Enjoy your delightful fried ice cream dessert bars!

12) Blueberry Pie Bars

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Blueberry pie bars are a delightful twist on traditional blueberry pie, combining a buttery crust with a sweet and tangy blueberry filling.

They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in.

With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delightful dessert that everyone will love!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh blueberries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (for crust)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix together 2 cups of flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press it into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Make the Filling: In another bowl, combine fresh blueberries, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup flour, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir gently to coat the blueberries without breaking them.
  3. Assemble: Pour the blueberry mixture over the crust evenly. In a separate bowl, mix the remaining flour, sugar, and butter to create a crumb topping. Sprinkle this over the blueberry layer.
  4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the blueberries are bubbly. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
  5. Serve: Enjoy these blueberry pie bars warm or at room temperature. Dust with additional powdered sugar for a sweet finish!
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Salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate chip cookies with a rich, gooey caramel drizzle.

The bars are chewy and soft, thanks to the buttery cookie dough, and the addition of chocolate chips adds a melty, indulgent touch.

Topped off with a sprinkle of sea salt, these bars strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce
  • Sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
  4. Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the dough and swirl it with a knife for an even distribution.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top while still warm.
  6. Sprinkle with sea salt and allow to cool before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars!

14) Cherry-Almond Bars

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Cherry-Almond Bars are a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tart flavor of cherries with the rich essence of almonds.

These delicious Cherry-Almond Bars have a buttery crust, a sweet cherry filling, and a crunchy almond topping—perfect for a treat with coffee or tea!

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup cherry preserves (or cherry pie filling)
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup sliced almonds
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. Make the Crust: In a bowl, beat butter and sugar until creamy. Mix in the flour and salt until crumbly. Press the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes, until lightly golden.
  3. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix cherry preserves with almond extract. Spread evenly over the baked crust.
  4. Make the Topping: In another bowl, combine sliced almonds, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, and cinnamon. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the cherry layer.
  5. Bake: Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
  6. Cool & Serve: Let the bars cool completely before slicing. Enjoy!

Tip: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for extra sweetness!

Raspberry oatmeal cookie bars Save

Raspberry Oatmeal Cookie Bars are a delightful blend of chewy oatmeal and tart raspberries.

They offer a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of tang, making them a fantastic treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup raspberry jam (or preserves)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Make the crust and topping: In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add flour, oats, baking soda, salt, and vanilla. Mix until crumbly.
  3. Press the base: Reserve about 1 cup of the oat mixture for topping. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  4. Add raspberry layer: Spread raspberry jam evenly over the crust.
  5. Add topping: Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the jam. If using nuts, sprinkle them on top.
  6. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown.
  7. Cool completely before cutting into bars. Enjoy!
15 irresistible dessert bar recipes to try 2 Save
15 irresistible dessert bar recipes to try 3 Save
15 irresistible dessert bar recipes to try 4 Save
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