Royal Chocolate Marshmallow Bars

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s equal parts indulgent and nostalgic, look no further than these Royal Chocolate Marshmallow Bars. Rich chocolate, gooey marshmallows, and a delightful crunch make these bars the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, you won’t be able to resist these decadent delights. So grab your apron and let’s dive into making a dessert that’s sure to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something truly magical about the combination of chocolate and marshmallow. The texture contrasts beautifully, and the flavors meld together in a way that leaves you wanting more. These Royal Chocolate Marshmallow Bars are not just a dessert; they’re an experience. The chewy marshmallows, rich chocolate, and the satisfying crunch from the Rice Krispies create a symphony of flavors and textures that are simply irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for sharing, making them a staple in my dessert repertoire.

What You’ll Need

• 1 cup granulated white sugar
• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter, at room temperature
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups mini marshmallows
• 8 ounces milk chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup peanut butter (or almond butter for a twist)
• 2 cups Rice Krispies

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing bowls: You’ll need a large bowl for mixing the batter and a separate bowl for melting the chocolate and butter.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for making your bars perfectly thick and chewy.
• Spatula: A silicone spatula works best for folding the ingredients together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect texture.
• Whisk: For blending the eggs and sugar together smoothly.

Cooking Royal Chocolate Marshmallow Bars: The Process

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly chewy.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with a bit of butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated white sugar and softened butter. Using a whisk, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Fold in the Marshmallows

Gently fold in the mini marshmallows, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Pour into the Baking Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with your spatula.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 9: Prepare the Chocolate Topping

While the bars are baking, melt the milk chocolate chips and 3 tablespoons of butter together in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth and creamy. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter until well combined.

Step 10: Add the Crunch

Add the Rice Krispies to the chocolate-peanut butter mixture, folding gently to coat them evenly.

Step 11: Assemble the Bars

Once your bars have cooled for about 10 minutes, pour the chocolate mixture over the top. Spread it evenly with your spatula, making sure to cover the entire surface.

Step 12: Chill and Cut

Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least an hour to set the chocolate. Once set, cut into squares and serve!

Fresh Takes Through the Year

• Seasonal Flavors: In the fall, add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy twist, or swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate for a winter treat.
• Nutty Variations: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Fruit Infusion: Mix in dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a sweet and tart contrast.
• Marshmallow Swirls: Instead of mini marshmallows, try using flavored marshmallows for a fun variation.

Things That Go Wrong

• Bars are Too Dense: Make sure you’re not overmixing the batter. Fold gently to keep the bars light and fluffy.
• Chocolate Topping is Too Thick: If your chocolate-peanut butter mixture is too thick, add a drizzle of coconut oil to smooth it out.
• Burnt Edges: Keep an eye on your bars while baking; every oven is different, and you might need to adjust the time slightly.
• Sticky Marshmallows: If you find the marshmallows are sticking too much, lightly grease your spatula before spreading the batter.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store your Royal Chocolate Marshmallow Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. For reheating, simply place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften the chocolate and enjoy that gooey marshmallow goodness all over again!

Common Qs About Royal Chocolate Marshmallow Bars

Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give your bars a richer flavor, so feel free to swap it in for a more intense chocolate experience.

What can I use if I don’t have Rice Krispies?

If you don’t have Rice Krispies on hand, you can substitute with any crispy cereal, like Cornflakes or even granola for a different texture.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to three months.

How do I prevent the marshmallows from hardening?

To keep your marshmallows soft, make sure to store the bars in an airtight container. If they do harden a bit, simply microwave them for a few seconds to soften them back up.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details you need, it’s time to get into the kitchen and whip up these delightful Royal Chocolate Marshmallow Bars. They’re sure to become a favorite in your household, loved by both young and old alike. Enjoy the process, savor the aroma as they bake, and most importantly, indulge in every gooey, chocolatey bite! Happy baking!