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How to Make Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated with the butter.
Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use the back of a spoon to pack the crumbs down firmly. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the other layers.
Step 2: Make the Fudge Layer
In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate chips are melted and the mixture is smooth.
Once the fudge is smooth and fully combined, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the fudge mixture cool for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Add the Cherry Layer
Once the fudge mixture is ready, gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, mini marshmallows, and optional chopped nuts (if using). The marshmallows will add a fun, chewy texture to the bars, while the cherries will provide a burst of fruity sweetness.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Pour the fudge mixture over the slightly cooled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the crust, ensuring it covers the entire surface. The fudge will firm up as it cools, so be sure to spread it as evenly as possible.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Refrigerate the bars for about 2 hours to allow the fudge to set and firm up completely. This will ensure that the bars hold together when cut into squares. If you’re short on time, you can place them in the freezer for about 30-45 minutes to speed up the chilling process.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once the bars have fully chilled and set, remove them from the fridge and cut into squares. The bars will have a beautiful layer of fudge with chewy marshmallows, sweet cherries, and a crunchy graham cracker crust. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use Good Quality Chocolate: For the best flavor, use semi-sweet chocolate chips or high-quality chocolate bars for the fudge layer. You can also experiment with milk chocolate or dark chocolate depending on your preference.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet fudge, you can adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly, or choose dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Customize with Other Ingredients: Feel free to get creative with the additions. Coconut flakes, toffee bits, or even crushed pretzels can make a great addition to the bars, adding a unique twist to the classic recipe.
- Make Ahead: These bars are perfect for making ahead. Prepare them the night before a party or event and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
- Storage: Store leftover Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They’re perfect for snacking and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Why Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars Are Perfect for Any Occasion
These Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars are ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a holiday celebration, attending a potluck, or simply treating yourself and your family, these bars are sure to be a hit. The bright cherry flavor and festive look make them an excellent choice for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or Easter. Plus, they’re easy to make in large batches, which makes them perfect for parties and gatherings.
Conclusion
With their chewy, gooey texture and delightful balance of chocolate, cherries, and marshmallows, Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars are a dessert that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. They’re quick to prepare, deliciously indulgent, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. So the next time you need a sweet treat, whip up a batch of these irresistible fudge bars and enjoy the perfect combination of flavors in every bite!
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