As the aroma of baking wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but reminisce about the holiday magic of my childhood. These Easy Festive Christmas Bars with Marshmallows and Chocolate are a delightful nod to those cherished memories, ready to charm your family in just 45 minutes! Bursting with a chewy graham cracker base and gooey chocolate, this recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly customizable. Feeling adventurous? You can whip up a nut-free version or even a vegan adaptation! Whether you’re looking to elevate your holiday spread or simply need a quick treat to share, these bars are here to bring a little extra joy to your festivities. Curious about how to make your own batch of these delectable holiday delights? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these Christmas Bars a must-try?
Simplicity is Key: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal kitchen skills, perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re craving a nut-free version or a vegan adaptation, these bars can easily be customized to meet various dietary needs.
Mouthwatering Flavor: The luscious combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers creates a harmonious blend of sweet and savory that is simply irresistible.
Time-Saving Treat: Ready in just 45 minutes, these bars fit seamlessly into your holiday baking schedule, making them a hassle-free addition to any gathering.
Crowd Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, these Christmas bars are sure to become a holiday staple at your celebrations. Want to get creative? Consider our variation ideas for exciting twists!
Christmas Bars Ingredients
For the Base
- Graham Cracker Crumbs – 2 cups (200 g) – Provides a sweet, crunchy texture; substitute with crushed whole graham crackers for an alternative.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – ¼ cup (25 g) – Adds a rich chocolatey depth; opt for high-quality cocoa to enhance the flavor.
- Powdered Sugar – 1½ cups (180 g) – Sweetens the mixture and gives a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth quality; essential for those beloved Christmas bars.
- Unsalted Butter – ¾ cup (170 g), melted – Binds the ingredients and enriches flavor; can be replaced with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
For the Filling
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – 1 can (14 oz / 397 g) – Provides moisture and sweetness, contributing to that delightful chewy texture.
- Mini Marshmallows – 3 cups (150 g) – Infuse chewy goodness; use mini marshmallows for better distribution throughout the bars.
- Chocolate Chips – 1½ cups (270 g) – Offers extra chocolate flavor; choose dark, milk, or white chocolate to suit your taste preferences.
- Chopped Nuts (optional) – ½ cup (60 g) – Adds a nice crunch; omit this for a nut-free version and boost the chocolate chips instead.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for even baking and will ensure that your Christmas bars come out perfectly set. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and equipment, so you’re ready for the next steps.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1½ cups of powdered sugar. Stir well until the mixture is uniform and the dry ingredients are fully incorporated. This blend will form the sweet, crunchy base of your Christmas bars.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in ¾ cup of melted unsalted butter and one can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk into the dry mix. Stir until everything is well combined and thick, ensuring no dry pockets remain. This creates a rich, robust foundation for your delicious Christmas bars.
Step 4: Fold in Fillings
Gently fold in 3 cups of mini marshmallows and 1½ cups of chocolate chips, along with any optional chopped nuts. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain the light and fluffy texture of the mini marshmallows, giving your bars that trademark chewy quality.
Step 5: Spread and Bake
Transfer your mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for the edges to be set and the center to be slightly firm, indicating that your Christmas bars are ready.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. This cooling time is essential to achieve clean, bite-sized squares without crumbling. Once cool, use a knife to cut the bars into squares, ready to be enjoyed during your festive celebrations.
Expert Tips for Christmas Bars
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Melted Butter: Ensure the butter is completely melted for a smooth consistency. Lumps can lead to uneven texture in your Christmas bars.
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Parchment Paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This prevents sticking and makes cutting cleaner.
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Cooling Time: Allow your bars to cool completely before cutting. If not, they may crumble and lose their shape, making them harder to serve.
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Mix-ins Variety: Experiment with different mix-ins such as dried fruit or coconut to personalize your Christmas bars. Just remember to balance flavors!
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Storage Solution: Keep your Christmas bars in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness, or freeze for up to three months.
Storage Tips for Christmas Bars
Room Temperature: Keep the Christmas bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days, ensuring they remain soft and chewy.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store the bars in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just bring them to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the bars in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge.
Reheating: If you prefer warm bars, gently microwave individual pieces for a few seconds until just warmed through, allowing the chocolate to become gooey again.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Festive Christmas Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the base mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, then refrigerating the mixture in an airtight container. To maintain the delightful chewiness, avoid folding in the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips until you are ready to bake. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the fillings, spread the mixture into the pan, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have fresh, delicious Christmas bars with minimal effort—perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy family nights!
Christmas Bars: Customization Options
Feel free to personalize these delightful Christmas bars to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Nut-Free Version: Omit the nuts and replace with extra chocolate chips for an added crunch.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour for a seamless transition.
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Vegan Adaptation: For a delightful vegan treat, use melted coconut oil and a homemade vegan condensed milk substitute in the recipe.
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Mint Chocolate Twist: Add a splash of peppermint extract for an invigorating holiday flavor that’s sure to please.
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Fruit and Nut Medley: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries mixed with nuts for a festive addition that adds texture and sweetness.
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Spiced Christmas Bars: Introduce a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to warm the flavor profile, making these bars even more cozy.
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Caramel Delight: Drizzle a warm caramel sauce on top before serving for an indulgent twist that will delight your guests.
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Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed pretzels or more nuts on the top layer before baking for added texture and a salty-sweet combination.
Exploring these variations will make your holiday celebrations even more special! Consider pairing these bars with a warm cup of hot cocoa or alongside a rich vanilla ice cream scoop for a truly festive dessert experience.
What to Serve with Easy Festive Christmas Bars
Elevate your holiday gathering with delightful accompaniments that enhance the joy of these scrumptious treats.
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Hot Cocoa: This classic beverage’s creamy warmth pairs perfectly with the rich chocolatey flavors, making every bite a cozy indulgence.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy ice cream balances the bars’ sweetness, providing a delightful contrast in textures that enhances the overall experience.
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Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar not only beautifies the presentation but adds a touch of sweetness that complements the bars’ flavors.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits introduces a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness of the bars, adding brightness to your dessert table.
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Sparkling Water with Mint: This refreshing drink cleanses the palate between bites, showcasing the sweet and chewy goodness of the Christmas bars.
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Peppermint Bark: For a festive twist, serve alongside peppermint bark. The minty flavor perfectly echoes any mint chocolate variations while enhancing holiday cheer.
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Chewy Ginger Cookies: The spices from ginger cookies introduce a warm, comforting flavor that beautifully contrasts the gooeyness of the Christmas bars.
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Eggnog: Rich, creamy, and spiced, this classic holiday drink adds a nostalgic touch, making your gathering feel even more festive and indulgent.
Christmas Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right graham cracker crumbs?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using high-quality graham cracker crumbs. You can also crush whole graham crackers if you prefer a fresher option. Just ensure they’re well-ground for an even texture in your bars.
How should I store the Christmas bars after baking?
To keep your Christmas bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. For longer storage, they can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste!
Can I freeze the Christmas bars?
Very! To freeze your Christmas bars, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in a sealed freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature.
What should I do if my bars crumble when cutting?
If your Christmas bars crumble, it may be due to insufficient cooling or not enough binding agents. Make sure to let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. If they still crumble, you can try adding an extra tablespoon of melted butter in your next batch for improved texture!
Are there any allergies to consider with this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe contains dairy from butter and sweetened condensed milk, so it’s not suitable for those with dairy allergies. For a nut-free version, just omit any nuts. If you’re accommodating vegan eaters, consider substituting with coconut oil and a homemade vegan condensed milk.
Can I add other mix-ins to the Christmas bars?
Definitely! The more the merrier! Get creative by adding mix-ins such as dried fruits, like cranberries, or even coconut flakes. Just remember to balance out the sweetness and ensure the flavors complement the chocolate and marshmallows beautifully.
Delicious Christmas Bars: A Festive Treat for Everyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, unsweetened cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Stir well until uniform.
- Pour in melted unsalted butter and sweetened condensed milk into the dry mix. Stir until well combined and thick.
- Fold in mini marshmallows and chocolate chips, along with optional chopped nuts, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature before cutting into squares.
