Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars

If you’re craving a dessert that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, you’ve just found it with these irresistible Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars. This luscious treat fuses the tartness of juicy cherries with fluffy marshmallows and creamy fudge, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these bars offer a comforting, rich dessert experience that never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples that come together quickly for a fuss-free baking experience.
• Layered flavors: Combines sweet cherries, marshmallows, and decadent fudge for a multi-dimensional taste.
• Perfect texture: Offers a tender, chewy base with gooey marshmallow pockets and smooth fudge layers.
• Eye-catching presentation: The vibrant cherry pieces create a stunning, colorful dessert.
• Versatile treat: Great for holidays, potlucks, or an everyday indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the key to truly capturing the magic of Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars. Each component plays a crucial role, from the smooth richness of fudge to the fresh burst of cherry flavor and the pillowy softness of marshmallows.

• Sweet cherries: Fresh or frozen, they add tartness and natural sweetness that brighten the bars.
• Mini marshmallows: Provide soft, chewy pockets of sweetness that melt into the fudge.
• Chocolate fudge: Use rich, creamy chocolate fudge for decadent flavor and smooth texture.
• Butter: Adds moisture and richness to the base, binding everything perfectly.
• Sugar: Balances the tart cherries and enhances the overall sweetness.
• Flour: Creates a sturdy yet tender crust that holds all layers together.
• Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

Variations for Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can easily adapt it to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or available ingredients, making Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars a wonderfully flexible dessert option.

• Nutty twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and nuttiness.
• Dark chocolate fudge: Swap milk chocolate for dark chocolate for a slightly bitter, richer flavor.
• Gluten-free base: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars friendly for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Berry swap: Replace cherries with raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity surprise.
• Marshmallow variety: Try using flavored marshmallows like strawberry or vanilla to enhance the dessert.

How to Make Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges once the bars are baked.

Step 2: Make the Crust

Mix the butter, sugar, and flour in a bowl until a crumbly dough forms. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating a sturdy base that will hold the layers of fudge, cherries, and marshmallows.

Step 3: Layer the Fudge

Spread a generous layer of your chosen chocolate fudge over the crust, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula to ensure consistent coverage and gooey goodness in every bite.

Step 4: Add Cherries and Marshmallows

Distribute the pitted and halved cherries evenly on top of the fudge layer. Then sprinkle mini marshmallows generously over the cherries, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Step 5: Bake Until Delightful

Bake the bars at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and puffed, and the edges of the crust turn a satisfying golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Allow the Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares to ensure clean cuts and maintain the gooey layers.

Pro Tips for Making Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter and fudge are at room temperature for seamless mixing and spreading.
• Cherry prep: If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain thoroughly to prevent soggy bars.
• Marshmallow spacing: Spread marshmallows evenly, avoiding overcrowding for optimal melting and browning.
• Don’t overbake: Watch the bars closely nearing the end to keep marshmallows soft and the crust tender.
• Use parchment paper: Lining your pan makes removing and slicing bars much easier and tidier.

How to Serve Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars

Garnishes

Top bars with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate to make them feel extra special and visually stunning.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to contrast their rich texture and add a creamy balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the bars on a festive platter garnished with fresh cherries and mint leaves for a colorful, inviting dessert table centerpiece that catches everyone’s eye.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their softness and freshness.

Freezing

Freeze bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for best texture.

Reheating

Warm bars slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back their gooey, fudgy charm when ready to enjoy leftovers.

FAQs

Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, canned cherries work well, but be sure to drain them very well to avoid excess moisture that can affect texture.

Is there a way to make these bars dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free butter and dairy-free chocolate fudge alternatives to easily adapt the recipe for dairy-free diets.

How long do Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature or up to one week refrigerated.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that measures cup-for-cup for best results.

What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?

Wait until completely cooled, then use a sharp knife warmed with hot water and wiped dry to cut through without squishing the layers.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars truly deliver a magical mix of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for more. With their easy preparation and flexible recipe variations, they are perfect for any sweet occasion or cozy day at home. Go ahead and treat yourself to a batch—you deserve it!

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