The aroma of chocolate and marshmallows wafting through the kitchen is the ultimate invitation to the holiday spirit, and these Festive Christmas Bars perfectly capture that essence! In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these delightful treats that are not only quick to prepare but also completely customizable for any gathering. Whether you prefer a nut-free version or want to adapt it to a gluten-free or vegan diet, this recipe ensures that everyone can indulge. The chewy texture, reminiscent of brownies, combined with pockets of melted chocolate will have your guests asking for seconds. Curious about how to create this holiday magic in your own home? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Christmas Bars So Irresistible?
Quick to Prepare: In just 45 minutes, you can have a delicious batch ready, making them perfect for those last-minute holiday gatherings.
Customizable Creations: Whether you’re looking for a nut-free version or a vegan adaptation, these bars cater to everyone’s tastes!
Irresistible Chewy Texture: With a fudgy brownie-like consistency and delightful pockets of melted chocolate and marshmallow, each bite is a treat.
Festive Flavors: Add unique twists like mint chocolate or a fruit and nut medley for a personal touch.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of hot cocoa, and they’ll be a hit!
Ready to make your own? Check out my recipe for Salted Caramel Bars to keep the festive spirit going!
Christmas Bars Ingredients
For the Base
• Graham Cracker Crumbs – Provides a sweet, crunchy base; feel free to crush whole graham crackers if you prefer.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; opt for high-quality cocoa for the best taste.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the bars and gives them a smooth texture, which is essential for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Unsalted Butter – Binds ingredients together and adds richness; substitute with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
For the Chewy Mixture
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds moisture and sweetness; it’s the secret to achieving those deliciously chewy Christmas Bars.
• Mini Marshmallows – Contributes a fun, chewy element; regular marshmallows can be used but mini ones distribute better.
• Chocolate Chips – Enhance the chocolatey taste; feel free to use dark, milk, or white chocolate chips depending on preference.
Optional Crunch
• Chopped Nuts – Adds delightful crunch; walnuts or pecans are great choices, or omit for nut allergies.
Feel the holiday spirit come alive in your kitchen with these Christmas Bars!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the temperature is just right for baking your Christmas Bars evenly. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients to streamline the preparation process.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, unsweetened cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Use a whisk or spatula to ensure all ingredients are fully blended together, creating a uniform dry mixture that will form the tasty base of your Christmas Bars.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Melt your unsalted butter and allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the dry mixture, along with the sweetened condensed milk. Stir vigorously until the mixture becomes thick, sticky, and well combined, ensuring that everything is incorporated evenly and no dry ingredients remain.
Step 4: Fold in Mix-ins
Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips into your thick batter. If you are using chopped nuts, add them at this stage as well. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the marshmallows intact for that delightful chewy texture in your Christmas Bars.
Step 5: Spread & Bake
Pour your batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center looks slightly firm but not overly dry.
Step 6: Cool & Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the Christmas Bars cool completely in the pan. This cooling period is essential for cutting them into neat squares without crumbling. Once cooled, slice into squares and serve to make everyone’s holiday gatherings a little sweeter!
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Christmas Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can create the base mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container, which helps to lock in that rich chocolate flavor. Additionally, you can mix in your mini marshmallows and chocolate chips just before baking to maintain their delightful texture. For maximum freshness, bake the bars no more than a day before serving, allowing you to enjoy their luscious, chewy goodness at its best. When you’re ready to serve, simply cut them into squares, and they’ll be just as delicious as if freshly made!
Christmas Bars Variations & Substitutions
Customize your Christmas Bars with these fun and delicious twists that will make your holiday baking even more special!
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Nut-Free Version: Omit nuts and add extra chocolate chips for texture. This makes for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s safe for everyone to enjoy.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour to cater to gluten sensitivities. It’s a small change that ensures everyone can indulge during the festivities.
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Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a vegan condensed milk alternative for a plant-based treat. These adjustments make it easy to accommodate dietary preferences while maintaining deliciousness.
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Mint Chocolate Twist: Add peppermint extract for a holiday-flavored variation that brings the joy of seasonal spirits to every bite. Imagine the sweet and refreshing zing that mingles with rich chocolate!
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Fruit and Nut Medley: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries along with nuts for added flavor and festivity. The bursts of fruit combined with crunchy nuts create a delicious contrast in texture.
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Spicy Heat: For those who like a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter. This unexpected twist will surprise and delight your taste buds, offering a unique flavor experience.
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Coconut Flakes: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist. This addition gives a wonderful chewiness and complements the chocolate beautifully.
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S’mores Style: Layer in mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers on top before baking. They’ll create a delightful, gooey, and crunchy topping that everyone will love!
These variations not only elevate your Christmas Bars but also ensure that everyone can partake in the holiday joy! So, roll up those sleeves and get baking. If you’re looking for other sweet delights, try my delicious Sweet Potato Bars for another festive treat!
Expert Tips for Christmas Bars
- Melted Butter: Ensure your butter is fully melted to achieve a smooth and cohesive mixture. This step is crucial for properly combining all ingredients.
- Non-Stick Solution: Use non-stick spray or line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of your delicious Christmas Bars.
- Cooling Time: Be patient! Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting; this prevents crumbling and ensures cleaner edges.
- Mix-In Magic: Feel free to experiment with various mix-ins. Dried fruit or shredded coconut can add unique flavors and textures to your Christmas Bars.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Bars
Room Temperature: Keep your Christmas Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store the bars in the fridge for up to 10 days. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: Wrap the Christmas Bars securely in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Reheating: If you prefer your bars warm, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back that delightful gooeyness!
What to Serve with Christmas Bars
Elevate your holiday dessert experience by pairing these chewy delights with complementary flavors and textures that will delight your senses.
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Rich Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa adds a cozy, chocolatey warmth that pairs perfectly with the bars’ fudgy texture. Enjoying them together feels like a warm hug on a cold day!
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Spiced Apple Cider: This seasonal drink brings festive spices that enhance the sweetness of the bars, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast to the warm, chewy bars, making every bite a delightful combination of hot and cold.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of citrus and berries adds brightness and a pop of color, cutting through the richness of the bars and providing a light, fresh element.
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Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For those who crave the indulgence of chocolate, these treats add an elegant touch to your dessert table while complementing the chocolatey goodness of the bars.
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Buttery Popcorn: A sprinkle of sea salt on buttery popcorn introduces a fun, crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the chewy bars, making it a playful snack pairing.
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Festive Cookies: A platter of assorted holiday cookies can make for a cheerful presentation, inviting your guests to mix and match flavors and textures at the dessert table.
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Peppermint Bark: This minty chocolate treat echoes the festive spirit, making it a delightful companion that resonates with the flavors of the Christmas Bars.
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Fizzy Sparkling Beverage: A glass of sparkling cider or a festive mocktail adds an effervescent touch, rounding out the dessert experience with a refreshing twist.
Each pairing option brings its own unique joy to the table, ensuring that these Christmas Bars become the highlight of your holiday gatherings!
Christmas Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of graham crackers should I use for my Christmas Bars?
Absolutely! For the base, I recommend using traditional honey-flavored graham crackers for a sweet crunch. If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute with gluten-free graham crackers or even crush almond flour for a unique twist.
How should I store the Christmas Bars after baking?
Keep your Christmas Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for optimal freshness. If you want to prolong their shelf life, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 10 days. Allow them to reach room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I freeze Christmas Bars for later use?
Sure thing! To freeze, wrap the cooled bars securely in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, and if you like, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave can bring back that warm, gooey texture!
What if my Christmas Bars are too crumbly after baking?
If your bars crumble, it’s usually due to not allowing them to cool completely or possibly having too much dry ingredient in the mixture. To achieve a perfect, chewy texture, ensure that the mixture is well combined before baking, and let them cool in the pan before cutting. Next time, try gently pressing the mixture into the pan to create a denser base!
Are there any common dietary considerations with Christmas Bars?
Definitely! If you’re concerned about allergies, you can make these bars nut-free by omitting the nuts or using substitutes like sunflower seeds. For those avoiding dairy, simply substitute the unsalted butter with melted coconut oil and look for a vegan condensed milk option. Everyone can indulge in these festive treats!
How can I customize the flavor of my Christmas Bars?
The more the merrier! You can easily add your favorite flavors to the mix. Stir in peppermint extract for a delightful mint chocolate twist or fold in dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a fruit medley. Experimenting with chocolate chips—like swapping dark for white chocolate—can also change things up beautifully. Happy baking!
Chewy Christmas Bars: Irresistible Holiday Treats to Share
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine graham cracker crumbs, unsweetened cocoa powder, and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl.
- Add melted unsalted butter and sweetened condensed milk to the dry mixture and stir until thick and sticky.
- Fold in mini marshmallows and chocolate chips, and add chopped nuts if using.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
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