No Bake Holiday Marshmallow Bars
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A Sweet Treat for the Holidays
Picture this: a tray of colorful, delicious No Bake Holiday Marshmallow Bars sitting on the counter, calling your name. This delightful snack combines the decadent flavors of chocolate, butterscotch, and peanut butter with the fun crunch of mini marshmallows and festive M&M’s. This recipe is a holiday favorite for families, parties, or when you just want to indulge in a quick and easy treat. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a heartwarming reminder of the joyous season.
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out
You might wonder why you should try this recipe among countless others. Well, for starters, these bars are incredibly easy to whip up, requiring no oven and minimal effort. Perfect for busy holiday gatherings or last-minute celebrations, they offer a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Plus, kids will love helping out in the kitchen, making it a fun family activity.
"I made these bars for a holiday party, and they were gone in minutes! The kids especially couldn’t get enough of them—definitely a keeper!"
Preparing No Bake Holiday Marshmallow Bars
Creating these bars is a breeze and a great way to spend some time in the kitchen without the fuss of baking. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll be doing: you’ll melt some chocolatey goodness with butterscotch and peanut butter, mix in marshmallows, then let the mixture cool in the fridge. It’s as simple as that!
Gather These Items
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious bars:
- 1 1/2 cups Nestlé chocolate chips
- 1 1/3 cups butterscotch chips
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 1/4 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup red and green M&M’s
If you’re looking for substitutions, feel free to use dark chocolate chips or almond butter for a nut-free version. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to dive in? Let’s get started with these straightforward steps:
- Begin by lining an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper. This will make removing the bars a breeze once they’re set.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter. Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until everything is perfectly melted and smooth.
- Once melted, stir in the mini marshmallows until they’re fully coated in the chocolate mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with red and green M&M’s, pressing them lightly into the mixture to keep them from falling off.
- Place the dish in the refrigerator for about two hours, allowing the bars to set completely.
- When you’re ready, cut into 2-inch squares and enjoy your delicious creation!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These No Bake Holiday Marshmallow Bars are delightful on their own, but you can take them to the next level! Serve them alongside a warm mug of hot chocolate, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. You could also plate them with some fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you happen to have any leftovers (unlikely, but just in case!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just cut them into squares, place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll be ready whenever you need a sweet fix!
Pro Chef Tips
- Make sure to mix the marshmallows in quickly after melting—you want them to maintain their fluffy texture.
- For a festive touch, consider adding some crushed peppermint on top as a seasonal twist.
- If the chocolate mixture is too thick, you can add a little coconut oil to thin it out for easier pouring.
Creative Twists
Want to change things up? Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Nutty Addition: Add some chopped peanuts or almonds for crunch.
- Flavor Swaps: Use white chocolate chips instead of butterscotch for a different flavor profile.
- Dried Fruit: Swap out some of the mini marshmallows for dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity touch.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare the bars?
The entire process takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time, plus the chilling time of around two hours.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark or white chocolate chips, or even try a mix for a more complex flavor.
How should I serve these bars?
They’re great on their own, but you can also serve them with ice cream or alongside a warm drink for a cozy treat.
How long do leftovers last?
If stored properly in the refrigerator, they can last up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.
This No Bake Holiday Marshmallow Bars recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s an opportunity to make cherished memories during the joyous holiday season. Happy baking!
No Bake Holiday Marshmallow Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Line an 8"x8" baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
- Stir in mini marshmallows until they are fully coated in the chocolate mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with red and green M&M's, pressing them lightly into the mixture.
- Refrigerate for about two hours until set.
- Cut into 2-inch squares and serve.
