why make this recipe
These No Bake Christmas Marshmallow Bars are a festive, fast, kid-friendly treat that requires no oven and minimal hands-on time. They’re perfect for last-minute holiday parties, classroom snacks, or as a sweet addition to a cookie tray. If you enjoy layered no-bake treats, you might also like this No-Bake Christmas Lush for another seasonal option.
introduction
Soft, chewy marshmallow bars studded with chocolate chips and topped with colorful sprinkles — they look cheerful and taste nostalgic. This recipe keeps things simple with pantry staples and comes together in one bowl. The result is a slightly crispy, marshmallow-forward bar that’s easy to cut and share.
how to make No Bake Christmas Marshmallow Bars
Making these bars is straightforward: melt butter, fully dissolve the marshmallows, fold in vanilla and cereal, then stir in chocolate chips and press into a pan. Decorating with sprinkles before the mixture sets gives them a festive finish. No special equipment is needed beyond a microwave-safe bowl and a 9×13-inch pan.
Ingredients :
- 4 cups of mini marshmallows
- 3 cups of rice cereal
- 1 cup of chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Sprinkles (for decoration)
Directions :
- In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter in the microwave.
- Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they are fully melted.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the rice cereal and stir until all the cereal is coated.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Press the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch pan.
- Decorate with sprinkles on top.
- Let it cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars and serving.
how to serve No Bake Christmas Marshmallow Bars
Cut into squares and arrange on a festive platter. These bars pair well with milk, hot cocoa, or coffee. For a party, serve alongside cookies and other no-bake bites so guests can sample a variety without oven time.
how to store No Bake Christmas Marshmallow Bars
Store finished bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to one week — allow to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze individual bars wrapped tightly for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
tips to make No Bake Christmas Marshmallow Bars
- Use mini marshmallows for faster, more even melting; if using large marshmallows, cut them in half.
- Melt butter and marshmallows slowly at 20–30 second intervals in the microwave, stirring between bursts to avoid burning.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan (use a piece of parchment or a buttered spatula) so bars hold together when cut.
- Fold in chocolate chips briefly, especially if the marshmallow mixture is very hot — prolonged mixing can melt the chips.
- Add sprinkles immediately after pressing so they stick well before the bars set.
variation (if any)
- Swap rice cereal for crispy wheat cereal for a slightly different texture.
- Stir in chopped peppermint candies or use white chocolate chips for a seasonal twist.
- Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top after the bars set for a fancier look.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes — use a certified gluten-free rice cereal.
Q: Can I skip the chocolate chips?
A: Yes, omit them or replace with chopped nuts, dried fruit, or additional sprinkles.
Q: My bars are too sticky — what happened?
A: They may need more time to set. Chill briefly in the refrigerator to firm up before cutting.
Conclusion
For the original recipe and extra serving ideas, check out this detailed guide: No Bake Christmas Marshmallow Bars – My Incredible Recipes.
No Bake Christmas Marshmallow Bars
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter in the microwave.
- Add the mini marshmallows and stir until they are fully melted.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the rice cereal and stir until all the cereal is coated.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Press the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch pan.
- Decorate with sprinkles on top.
- Let it cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars and serving.

