Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars

Ah, Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars! Just the thought of this delightful treat takes me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of melting chocolate. One chilly afternoon, my sister and I were rummaging through her recipe box, searching for something scrumptious to make. That’s when we stumbled upon this little gem crafted with sweet cherries and fluffy marshmallows. As we melted chocolate together, the warm, rich scent enveloped us, creating a perfect moment of bliss. And oh, when we took that first bite — the smooth, velvety fudge, bursting with fruity sweetness from the cherries, and the playful chew of marshmallows! It became an instant family favorite, and I promise, it will win you over, too. Perfect for gatherings, easy enough for a weeknight treat, or just a cozy afternoon snack with a cup of hot cocoa!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Peasy: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip this up in no time!
• Quick to Make: Perfect for last-minute gatherings or an impromptu dessert craving!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a delightful balance of flavors.
• Crowd-Pleasing Treat: From kids to adults, everyone will be reaching for seconds (or thirds)!
• Fun to Customize: Add your own twist with different mix-ins or toppings!

Ingredients

• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk: This creamy goodness serves as the base of our fudge, making it rich and decadent.
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips: The star of the show! Go for quality chocolate for the best flavor.
• 1 cup mini marshmallows: These fluffy morsels add a delightful texture and sweetness.
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped: Tart yet sweet, these little ruby gems brighten every bite.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This adds a warm depth of flavor that rounds out the chocolate.
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional): For a bit of crunch! Feel free to swap for your favorite nut.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch enhances the overall sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk and semisweet chocolate chips. Stir gently until the mixture melts and becomes smooth and glossy. Oh, the aroma wafting through the kitchen is simply delightful!

Step 2: Add Flavor

Remove the pan from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Next, fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, allowing those bursts of fruity goodness to intertwine with the chocolate.

Step 3: Mix in Marshmallows and Nuts

Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and walnuts (if you’re using them). The mixture should now be a creamy, dreamy concoction ready for the next step!

Step 4: Pour and Spread

Pour the fudge mixture into a greased 8×8 inch dish and spread it evenly. Take a moment to admire your creation — it’s looking cozy already!

Step 5: Chill Out

Refrigerate your fudge bars for at least 2 hours or until they set completely. This is the perfect time to brew a cup of tea and wait for that sweet treat!

Step 6: Cut and Serve

Once set, cut into bars and serve! Imagine the smiles of your family and friends as they enjoy these delightful treats.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use Quality Chocolate: It makes all the difference in flavor!
2. Don’t Rush the Chilling: Ensure it’s fully set for the best texture.
3. Experiment with Nuts: Try pecans or almonds for a fun twist.
4. Sprinkle Some Sea Salt: A sprinkle on top before serving enhances the flavors even more!
5. Keep it Fresh: Cleanup is a breeze by using parchment paper in your dish.

Flavor Variations

• Berry Bliss: Swap maraschino cherries for fresh raspberries or strawberries for a seasonal twist!
• Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne or chili powder for a fun heat!

Serving Suggestions

These fudge bars are delightful on their own, but pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even a side of whipped cream for some extra indulgence. Serve them on a lovely plate, and don’t forget to garnish with a cherry on top for that finishing touch!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can make these fudge bars a day or two in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll be happy for up to a week!

Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra bars (which is quite a feat!), crumble them over yogurt for breakfast or blend them into a milkshake for a delicious and decadent twist!

Freezing

Absolutely! You can freeze these fudge bars. Just wrap each bar in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

Truth be told, these fudge bars are best enjoyed chilled, but if you’re looking to soften them slightly, you can gently microwave them for a few seconds. Just be careful not to overdo it!

FAQs

Can I substitute the cherries?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any fruit you love — like dried cranberries or even chopped strawberries!

What if I don’t have walnuts?
No worries at all! You can skip them or replace them with any nut or seed you enjoy — or just leave them out entirely for a nut-free treat!

How do I know when the fudge is set?
It should be firm to the touch and not sticky. A good rule of thumb is to wait until it’s fully chilled!

Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Of course! Dark chocolate or even milk chocolate would work beautifully — it’s all about your preference!

Final Thoughts

As we come together to craft these Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars, I want you to remember that food is all about creating beautiful moments. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack, embrace each bite, letting it fill you with warmth and joy. I can’t wait to hear about your delightful creations, so don’t hold back — go on and make these scrumptious bars! Happy cooking, my friends!