Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars are the perfect sweet treat to add to your holiday dessert spread. With their rich, fudgy texture, sweet maraschino cherries, and gooey marshmallows, these bars are as festive as they are delicious. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to share at a holiday gathering or simply craving something indulgent to enjoy with family, these bars are a guaranteed hit. The combination of chocolate and cherries is timeless, and the addition of marshmallows brings an irresistible chewiness that will have everyone coming back for more.

These bars are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort. Unlike traditional fudge, these bars set up quickly, meaning less waiting around and more time to enjoy the holidays. Plus, they’re a fun twist on a classic holiday dessert and perfect for gifting. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, these Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars will quickly become a go-to favorite for any celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Simple

These fudge bars come together in just a few simple steps, making them a perfect last-minute holiday treat.

2. Festive and Fun

The vibrant red cherries and fluffy marshmallows make these bars a visually striking dessert that’s perfect for the holidays.

3. No-Bake Option

These bars require minimal time in the oven, so you can focus on other holiday preparations while they set.

4. Perfect Balance of Flavors

The sweet, creamy chocolate pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cherries, while the marshmallows add a fun and chewy texture.

5. Great for Gifting

Packaged in a festive box or tin, these bars make a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift for family, friends, or neighbors.

Ingredients

Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Sweetened condensed milk
Butter
Maraschino cherries (drained and chopped)
Mini marshmallows
Vanilla extract
Salt

Variations

Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the fudge mixture for added crunch and flavor.
Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer, less sweet taste.
Fruit Mix-ins: Swap maraschino cherries for other dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a different holiday flair.
Minty Version: Add a teaspoon of mint extract for a refreshing twist, especially around the holiday season.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This will make it easy to remove the fudge bars later.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and sweetened condensed milk together, stirring constantly. Once melted, add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and continue to stir until smooth and fully melted.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Texture

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Then, fold in the chopped maraschino cherries and mini marshmallows, mixing until evenly distributed throughout the chocolate.

Step 4: Pour and Set

Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. Use a spatula to gently press the mixture down to ensure it’s compact and even.

Step 5: Refrigerate to Set

Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until the fudge bars are firm and fully set.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once set, remove the fudge bars from the baking dish and cut into squares or rectangles. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chop Cherries Well: Make sure to chop the maraschino cherries into small pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the bars.
Don’t Overheat the Chocolate: When melting the chocolate, be sure to keep the heat low to prevent it from burning or becoming grainy.
Add Extra Toppings: For an even more festive touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or additional marshmallows on top of the bars before refrigerating.
Let Them Cool Completely: Be sure to let the fudge bars cool and set fully in the fridge for the best texture and to prevent them from falling apart.

How to Serve

These Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They’re perfect for holiday parties, as a sweet snack, or as a delicious gift to share with loved ones. Pair them with a hot drink like hot cocoa or coffee for the ultimate cozy holiday treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover fudge bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They’ll stay fresh and maintain their chewy texture for several days.

Freezing

These bars can also be frozen for longer storage. After slicing, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply remove from the freezer and allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

If you prefer to enjoy the bars warm, you can gently heat them in the microwave for a few seconds or let them sit at room temperature for a while.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Fresh cherries are not ideal for this recipe because they contain more moisture, which could affect the texture of the bars. Maraschino cherries work best for their sweetness and consistency.

2. How long should I refrigerate the bars?

Refrigerate the bars for at least 2-3 hours to ensure they set properly. If you want them firmer, you can leave them in the fridge for longer.

3. Can I add more marshmallows?

Yes! Feel free to add extra mini marshmallows for an even fluffier texture, but be sure not to overload the mixture, as it could affect the bars’ ability to set properly.

4. Can I use sweetened chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Sweetened chocolate may make the bars too sweet, so it’s best to stick with semi-sweet chocolate or a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate if you prefer a less sugary taste.

5. Can I use coconut instead of marshmallows?

Coconut flakes can be used as a substitution for marshmallows, but the texture will be different. If you’re a fan of coconut, it adds a tropical twist to this dessert.

6. Can I make these fudge bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars are a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare them a day or two before your holiday gathering and store them in the fridge.

7. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

You can use milk chocolate, but it will make the bars sweeter. If you enjoy a sweeter fudge, then milk chocolate would be a good option.

8. How do I keep the bars from sticking to the pan?

Lining the pan with parchment paper or greasing it lightly will prevent the fudge bars from sticking and ensure they come out easily.

9. Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Yes, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans would complement the chocolate and cherry flavor nicely. Just fold them into the mixture along with the marshmallows and cherries.

10. Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, these Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars are naturally gluten-free, as they don’t contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients.

Conclusion

Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars are a festive and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season. The chewy marshmallows, rich chocolate, and sweet cherries create a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more. These bars are not only delicious but also customizable, making them a great addition to your holiday dessert table or as a gift for loved ones. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or enjoying a sweet treat at home, these fudge bars are sure to become a holiday favorite!