M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars Recipe

Introduction

I recently made these M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars for a family get-together, and they were an instant hit. The combination of semi-sweet chocolate, butterscotch chips, peanut butter, and mini marshmallows creates a rich, creamy, and indulgent treat that’s impossible to resist. What makes these bars even more exciting is the addition of M&M’s, which gives a pop of color and crunch. The bars are easy to make and only require a little patience while they chill. My family devoured them in no time, and everyone loved how gooey and chewy they were with a perfect balance of sweetness. If you love peanut butter, chocolate, and marshmallows, these bars are the ultimate indulgence.

Why You’ll Love These M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars

These M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars are the epitome of indulgent treats. They are rich, gooey, and loaded with flavor thanks to the semi-sweet chocolate, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter. The mini marshmallows give these bars a fun, chewy texture, and the addition of M&M’s makes every bite feel like a festive celebration. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, party, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, they’re a crowd-pleaser every time. The best part is they’re incredibly easy to make, with no baking required! Just melt, mix, chill, and serve. These bars are perfect for any occasion and are sure to leave everyone asking for more.

Ingredients

• 1 (12 oz) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 (12 oz) bag butterscotch chips
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 (10 oz) bag mini marshmallows
• 1 cup M&M’s (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Pan:
   Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick foil, leaving enough overhang for easy removal. This will make it much easier to lift the bars out of the dish once they’re set.
2. Melt the Base Ingredients:
   In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is melted and smooth. Be sure to stir it well to combine everything thoroughly.
3. Combine with Marshmallows:
   Gently fold in the mini marshmallows until they are evenly coated with the chocolate mixture. The marshmallows should be evenly distributed but handled gently to avoid breaking them.
4. Assemble the Bars:
   Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer with a spatula. Sprinkle the M&M’s over the top, pressing them lightly into the mixture so they stay in place as the bars set.
5. Chill and Set:
   Refrigerate the dish for 2-3 hours or until the bars are firm and set. The cooling time is essential to achieve the perfect texture for the bars.
6. Slice and Serve:
   Use the foil overhang to lift the bars out of the dish. Cut into squares and serve. These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for longer freshness.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 16 squares (approximately)
• Calories per serving: 260
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 5mg

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on exact ingredient brands used.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 2-3 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)

How to Serve

• At Parties: Serve these bars at your next gathering for a simple yet crowd-pleasing dessert.
• For a Sweet Snack: Enjoy these bars with a cup of coffee or tea as a sweet treat any time of day.
• For Special Occasions: These are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration that calls for a little extra sweetness.
• With Ice Cream: Top with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• As a Gift: Wrap them in clear plastic or parchment paper tied with a ribbon for a fun homemade gift.

Additional Tips

1. Use a Microwave-Friendly Bowl: For easier melting, always use a microwave-safe bowl that’s large enough to hold all your ingredients.
2. Let the Bars Cool Completely: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for the best texture. Cutting too early can cause the bars to be too soft.
3. Be Gentle with the Marshmallows: When folding in the marshmallows, be careful not to break them apart. They should stay whole for the best chewy texture.
4. Customize the Toppings: If you prefer, add other toppings such as crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or sprinkles to make these bars even more festive.
5. Store Properly: To keep the bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They will last for up to a week at room temperature, or you can refrigerate them to extend shelf life.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different types of chips?
   Yes! You can use milk chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even peanut butter chips instead of the semi-sweet and butterscotch chips. Experiment with different combinations for a unique flavor!
2. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
   Yes, chunky peanut butter will work as well. It will add a bit of extra texture to the bars.
3. How do I prevent the marshmallows from melting too much?
   Gently fold the marshmallows into the melted chocolate mixture. Stir just until the marshmallows are coated, being careful not to let the heat from the mixture melt them too much.
4. Can I make these bars in advance?
   Absolutely! You can make these bars up to a week in advance. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
5. Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
   Yes, you can cut regular marshmallows into smaller pieces to use in this recipe, though mini marshmallows are easier to mix in.
6. How can I make these bars even more festive?
   Add crushed candy canes, chocolate sprinkles, or edible glitter to make these bars even more festive for the holidays.
7. Can I freeze these bars?
   Yes, you can freeze these bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in an airtight container. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
8. Can I use a different type of candy for the topping?
   Absolutely! M&Ms are a great choice, but you can also use Reese’s Pieces, Skittles, or any candy you prefer.
9. How long do these bars need to chill?
   The bars need to chill for 2-3 hours or until firm. If you want to speed up the process, you can refrigerate them for an hour, then let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to finish setting.
10. Can I use a smaller pan?
    You can use a smaller pan, but the bars will be thicker. Just keep an eye on the cooling time, as they may take a little longer to set in a smaller pan.

Conclusion

These M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars are a perfect treat for any occasion, from holiday parties to simple family gatherings. The combination of creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and chewy marshmallows, topped with the fun crunch of M&Ms, makes them irresistible. The recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal prep time, making it an easy go-to for busy days when you need something sweet. Whether you’re serving them at a party, giving them as a gift, or enjoying them at home, these bars will surely become a favorite. So, grab your ingredients, make these bars, and enjoy the delicious, gooey goodness!

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