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Imagine biting into a decadent bar that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and coconut, all set atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Sounds irresistible, right? Welcome to the world of Fantasio Bars – a delightful treat that promises to satisfy your sweet cravings. This recipe has a special place in my heart, as it was a cherished gift from my grandmother, and I vividly remember the first time I tasted it at a family gathering. Since then, it’s become a beloved favorite in our household, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fantasio Bars are a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The crunchy graham cracker crust, the chewy coconut layer, and the smooth chocolate topping create a symphony of deliciousness in every bite. It’s a versatile treat that’s great for parties, family gatherings, or just a sweet indulgence for yourself. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
- Rubber spatula
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 1/2 cups flaked coconut
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar and graham cracker crumbs until well combined.
- Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until slightly firm.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked coconut and sweetened condensed milk. Spread this mixture over the baked crust and return to the oven for another 12 minutes. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes.
- Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler over simmering water, stirring frequently. Once melted, stir in the chopped almonds.
- Spread the chocolate and almond mixture evenly over the cooled coconut layer. Allow it to cool completely until the chocolate sets.
Tips for Success
For the best results, ensure that the graham cracker crust is firmly pressed into the baking dish. This will help the base hold together when you cut the bars. Be patient while melting the chocolate; low and slow is key to avoid scorching.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to experiment by adding other nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even drizzle some caramel on top for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re a fan of dark chocolate, try substituting semisweet with dark chocolate chips.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of Fantasio Bars is a delightful indulgence, packed with approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can try using a cookie crust or even a digestive biscuit base for a different twist on the classic recipe.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited to try these Fantasio Bars as I am to share them with you. They’re a cherished recipe in my family, and I believe they’ll quickly become a favorite in yours too. Once you’ve given them a try, I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below. Happy baking!
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