Holiday Magic Squares are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. With layers of crunchy, gooey, and sweet ingredients, they deliver the perfect bite every time. The recipe is easy to customize with your favorite holiday mix-ins, and it’s a no-fail option even for beginner bakers. Plus, they store well, making them a great make-ahead dessert for busy holiday weeks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Graham cracker crumbs
Unsalted butter, melted
Sweetened condensed milk
Semi-sweet chocolate chips
White chocolate chips (optional)
Sweetened shredded coconut
Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts, optional)
Holiday M&M’s or festive sprinkles
Crushed candy canes or red/green candies (optional for decoration)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust.
Layer chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, coconut, and nuts evenly over the condensed milk.
Top with holiday M&M’s, sprinkles, or other festive candies.
Gently press down on the toppings to help them stick.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24 squares. Preparation time: 10 minutes Baking time: 25–30 minutes Cooling time: 1 hour Total time: about 1 hour 40 minutes
Variations
Nut-Free Version: Skip the nuts and add extra coconut or crushed pretzels for crunch.
Peppermint Twist: Add crushed candy canes and a few drops of peppermint extract to the sweetened condensed milk.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
Double Chocolate: Add dark chocolate chips along with semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
Salted Caramel: Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle lightly with sea salt after baking.
Storage/Reheating
Store Holiday Magic Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 10 days or freeze for up to 2 months. No reheating is necessary—just thaw at room temperature before serving if frozen.
FAQs
What are magic squares made of?
Magic squares are typically made with a graham cracker crust, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, coconut, and assorted toppings layered and baked.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for making ahead. Store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to serve.
Are these bars overly sweet?
They are definitely rich and sweet, but the graham crust and nuts help balance the flavors.
Can I use a different type of cookie crust?
Yes, try crushed gingersnaps, shortbread cookies, or chocolate wafers for a unique twist.
What kind of chocolate chips work best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are standard, but you can use milk, dark, or white chocolate chips as well.
Do I have to use coconut?
No, but coconut adds great texture. You can replace it with more nuts or dried fruit if preferred.
How do I cut clean squares?
Let the bars cool completely and chill in the fridge before slicing with a sharp knife cleaned between cuts.
Can I use sweetened condensed milk alternatives?
For best results, stick to traditional sweetened condensed milk, but some dairy-free versions may work.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is simple and fun for kids to help layer and decorate.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Conclusion
Holiday Magic Squares are a nostalgic and festive treat that deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Their colorful appearance and delicious layers make them a favorite on cookie platters and dessert tables. Whether you’re baking for a party or gifting a batch to friends and family, these sweet bars are sure to spread holiday cheer.
Holiday Magic Squares are festive layered dessert bars made with a buttery graham cracker crust, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, coconut, and colorful holiday candies. Easy to prepare and irresistibly sweet, they’re perfect for cookie trays, parties, and gifting during the holiday season.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 40 minutes
Yield:24 squares
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts, optional)
1/2 cup holiday M&M’s or festive sprinkles
1/4 cup crushed candy canes or red/green candies (optional for decoration)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish to form the crust.
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust.
Evenly layer the semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips (if using), shredded coconut, and chopped nuts over the condensed milk.
Top with holiday M&M’s, sprinkles, and crushed candy canes if desired.
Gently press down the toppings to help them adhere.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
Let cool completely in the pan, then cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.Skip the nuts for a nut-free option or replace them with crushed pretzels.Add peppermint extract to the condensed milk for a festive twist.Chill before slicing to get clean cuts.These bars can be made ahead and stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.
