Description
M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars packed with gooey marshmallows, colorful M&M’s, and sweet chocolate chips. A quick, crowd-pleasing treat!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 package regular marshmallows
- 6 cups crispy rice cereal
- 1½ cups M&M’s candies, divided
- ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, enhances flavor)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare your workspace by lining a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray. Measure all ingredients before beginning, as the process moves quickly once started.
- Step 2: In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter completely, swirling occasionally to prevent burning. Once melted, immediately add the marshmallows. Stir constantly with a buttered spatula or wooden spoon until the marshmallows are about 90% melted.
- Step 3: Remove from heat and continue stirring until marshmallows are completely smooth and melted. This off-heat melting prevents overheating. If using, stir in the vanilla extract and salt now – these additions enhance the flavor profile of your M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars substantially.
- Step 4: Working quickly, add the crispy rice cereal to the marshmallow mixture. Fold gently but thoroughly until all cereal is evenly coated. When the cereal is almost fully incorporated, add 1 cup of the M&M’s and fold just a few times. Don’t overmix at this stage or the candies might melt and streak.
- Step 5: Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Using buttered hands or a piece of parchment paper, gently press the mixture evenly into the corners and edges. Work with a light touch to maintain the airy texture that makes these M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars so special.
- Step 6: Immediately sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of M&M’s over the top of the warm bars, pressing them in slightly so they adhere. This creates a beautiful, colorful top layer that makes your bars visually appealing. Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour before cutting.
- Step 7: Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan. Cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges. Your M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars are now ready to enjoy!
Notes
Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg