When the festive season approaches, my thoughts drift toward sweet delights that fill my home with warmth and joy. The cheerful scent of melting chocolate mingling with fluffy marshmallows signals that Christmas is right around the corner. That’s how I found my go-to recipe for Chewy Chocolate Christmas Bars—easy to whip up in just 45 minutes, and a perfect treat for gatherings or cozy family nights at home.
These bars are anything but ordinary; they boast a rich, fudgy texture infused with delicious layers of flavor. Each bite offers the sweetness of graham crackers, complemented by gooey marshmallows and chocolate chips that simply melt in your mouth. Better yet, this recipe is versatile enough for everyone, with options to create gluten-free, nut-free, or even vegan versions. So, whether you’re looking to impress friends or simply satisfy your holiday cravings, these Christmas bars are here to steal the show and create lasting memories. Let’s dive in!
Why are Christmas bars a must-try?
Delectable and delightful, these Christmas bars are a true holiday favorite! Quick to make, you can whip them up in just 45 minutes, ideal for last-minute gatherings. Versatile options ensure everyone feels included; you can easily adapt them to be gluten-free, nut-free, or vegan! Rich flavors come from a luscious blend of chocolate and marshmallows, creating a comforting treat. Perfect for sharing, these bars are sure to impress family and friends alike, making them a staple at any festive celebration.
Christmas Bars Ingredients
• Get ready to create these delightful Christmas bars!
For the Base
- Graham cracker crumbs – Provide a sweet, crunchy foundation; you can crush whole graham crackers if you prefer a coarser texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; opt for high-quality cocoa to elevate your bars’ taste.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens the mixture and contributes to a melt-in-your-mouth texture, essential for successful Christmas bars.
- Unsalted butter – Binds the ingredients together while adding richness; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
For the Filling
- Sweetened condensed milk – This is the secret ingredient that adds moisture, ensuring every bite remains soft and chewy.
- Mini marshmallows – Offering a fluffy texture, these little treats are a must for that classic Christmas bar experience; regular marshmallows can be used, but mini ones distribute more evenly.
- Chocolate chips – Unleash delightful chocolate flavor; choose from dark, milk, or white chocolate for variation.
- Chopped nuts (optional) – Add a delightful crunch; walnuts or pecans work well, but feel free to omit them for a nut-free version.
Now that you have all the key ingredients, you’re all set to create these mouth-watering Christmas bars that will surely spread joy this festive season!
How to Make Christmas Bars
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures even baking and perfect bars!
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the graham cracker crumbs, unsweetened cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Mix well to break up any lumps and achieve a uniform dry blend.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the melted unsalted butter and sweetened condensed milk into the dry mixture. Stir everything together until well combined into a thick and sticky consistency.
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Fold in Mix-ins: Carefully fold in the mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and any chopped nuts if using. Gentle mixing here is key to keeping those fluffy marshmallows intact!
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Spread and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are set and the center feels firm to the touch.
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Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This helps maintain their shape and makes sharing easier!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Christmas Bars
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Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips to elevate the rich flavor profile of your Christmas bars.
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Don’t Overmix: When folding in the marshmallows and chocolate chips, be gentle. Overmixing can deflate the marshmallows, resulting in a denser texture.
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Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting; this prevents crumbling and ensures pretty squares that are easy to share.
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Storage Tips: Keep your Christmas bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for three months—just remember to thaw before enjoying!
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Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to get creative! Add a mint chocolate twist with peppermint extract or a fruity flair with dried cranberries for a personalized touch.
Christmas Bars Variations
Feel free to customize these bars with these delightful twists for a personalized touch!
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Nut-Free Version: Omit any nuts and increase chocolate chips for a double chocolate delight.
It’s perfect for those with allergies, ensuring everyone can indulge. -
Gluten-Free Option: Swap graham cracker crumbs for gluten-free alternatives or almond flour.
This keeps the texture delightful while accommodating gluten sensitivities. -
Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a vegan sweetened condensed milk alternative.
This way, everyone can enjoy this festive treat, and it adds a hint of tropical flavor! -
Mint Chocolate Twist: Incorporate peppermint extract for a refreshing flavor that sings of the season.
It’s like a sweet holiday breeze with every bite! -
Fruit and Nut Medley: Add chopped dried cranberries or cherries for a pop of color and tartness.
This adds a festive touch and a hint of chewiness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. -
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising heat that energizes the chocolate.
Watch your guests’ eyes light up as they discover this unexpected twist! -
White Chocolate Bliss: Substitute some chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a creamy sweetness.
This contrast makes for an elegant and delightful treat that captures the essence of winter. -
Caramel Drizzle: Top your bars with a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving for a luscious finish.
It’s a sweet touch that adds richness and indulgence, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all your dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then store them in airtight containers. On baking day, simply combine the two and proceed with folding in the mix-ins. To maintain their delightful chewiness, be sure to refrigerate any unbaked mixture until you’re ready to spread and bake. When it’s time to serve, just cut the cooled bars and enjoy the rich chocolatey goodness that’s still just as delicious! You’ll have a festive treat ready with minimal effort when those holiday gatherings come around.
What to Serve with Christmas Bars?
These delightful treats are perfect for sharing during the festive season, and pairing them thoughtfully can elevate your holiday spread.
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Hot Cocoa: A classic choice that echoes the warmth and sweetness of the bars, making every bite even more comforting.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Its warm, spicy notes beautifully contrast the chocolatey sweetness, creating a cozy holiday vibe.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly, balancing the rich texture of the bars with its coolness.
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Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and a touch of indulgence, perfect for a festive presentation!
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Fruit Medley: Serve with a side of fresh berries or pomegranate seeds for a refreshing pop of color and flavor that complements the chocolate.
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Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light dusting on top not only looks elegant but also adds a sweet finishing touch that enhances the holiday spirit.
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Peppermint Tea: The minty freshness resonates with those who appreciate a herbal twist after enjoying a rich dessert.
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Chocolate Milkshake: For chocolate lovers, this combo amplifies the chocolatey goodness, making it a double treat!
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Christmas Cookies: Set a festive mood by pairing these bars with an assortment of cookies for a delightful dessert spread.
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Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink is the perfect holiday companion, complementing the bars’ sweetness while adding a nostalgic touch.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Bars
Room Temperature: Keep your Christmas bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, helping them retain their chewy texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can store the bars in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; just be sure to seal them tightly to avoid drying out.
Freezer: Freeze Christmas bars in an airtight container or wrap each square with plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Reheating: If desired, you can gently warm individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive their gooeyness before enjoying!
Christmas Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for my Christmas bars?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder and chocolate chips. This significantly enhances the overall taste of your bars. Make sure your graham cracker crumbs are fresh, as stale ones can affect the texture. If you’re going nut-free, double-check any nut-free labels on ingredients.
What is the best way to store leftover Christmas bars?
You can keep your Christmas bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they maintain their delightful chewy texture. If you want them to last longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, but make sure they are sealed tightly to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze my Christmas bars, and how should I do it?
Yes, you can freeze your Christmas bars! Simply wrap each square in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, or if you prefer a softer bite, gently warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
What should I do if my bars are too crumbly to cut?
If your Christmas bars are too crumbly, it may be because they didn’t cool completely before cutting or because the mixture was overbaked. To avoid this, allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least an hour before slicing. If you notice the edges are too firm, cutting them while slightly warm can help maintain their shape. Always check your baking time, too—25-30 minutes is ideal!
Are there any dietary considerations for making Christmas bars?
Very! You can easily adapt this recipe to meet various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute the graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives, like almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers. To make them nut-free, simply omit the chopped nuts and add extra chocolate chips instead. For a vegan adaptation, replace the unsalted butter with coconut oil and use a vegan sweetened condensed milk alternative.
Can I add other ingredients to my Christmas bars?
Absolutely! Experimenting with mix-ins can give your Christmas bars a unique twist. Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a pop of flavor and color. You can also infuse a mint chocolate twist by incorporating a teaspoon of peppermint extract. The more the merrier when it comes to customizing your bars!
Delicious Christmas Bars: Quick Treats for Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in melted butter and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until well combined.
- Fold in Mix-ins: Gently fold in marshmallows, chocolate chips, and nuts if using.
- Spread and Bake: Transfer to a greased pan and bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are set.
- Cool and Cut: Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.