Prepare to have your taste buds blown away by the most decadent, irresistible dessert you'll ever experience! Imagine the rich, velvety texture of red velvet cake meeting the tropical crunch of Almond Joy, all transformed into gooey, mouthwatering bars that will make your dessert dreams come true. These aren't just ordinary bars - they're a culinary adventure that combines the best of cake, candy, and pure indulgence in every single bite. Get ready to become the dessert hero of your family and friends with this show-stopping recipe that's about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 box red velvet cake mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped almonds
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, melted butter, and egg. Mix thoroughly until a smooth dough forms.
- Press approximately 2/3 of the cake mix dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even base layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded coconut evenly over the cake mix base, creating the first filling layer.
- Distribute the chopped almonds over the coconut layer, ensuring even coverage.
- Scatter the chocolate chips across the almond and coconut layer.
- Slowly and evenly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the entire surface, allowing it to seep between the layers.
- Crumble the remaining cake mix dough over the top, creating a rustic, uneven topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour.
- Use the parchment paper handles to lift the entire dessert out of the pan, then cut into 12 equal bars.
- For best results, chill the bars for 30 minutes before serving to allow them to set completely.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your egg and butter are at room temperature for the smoothest cake mix base.
- Parchment Paper is Your Best Friend: The overhanging parchment paper makes removal and cutting a breeze - don't skip this step!
- Even Layer Distribution: Take your time pressing the base layer and crumbling the top layer to ensure even baking and a gorgeous presentation.
- Condensed Milk Magic: Pour the sweetened condensed milk slowly and evenly to create those irresistible gooey pockets.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely and chill for 30 minutes to achieve the perfect texture and easy cutting.
- Storage Tip: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days - if they last that long!
- Customize Your Crunch: Feel free to adjust the amount of almonds or swap with different nuts for your personal twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 55mg
