M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars are the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. These bars combine layers of gooey, melted marshmallows with a buttery graham cracker crust and a generous sprinkle of colorful M&Ms on top. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch from the candy-coated chocolate, followed by the soft, chewy marshmallow center. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing holiday treats, or just looking for a fun dessert to make with the family, these bars are a perfect choice. They are simple to make and have universal appeal, making them an easy crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Best of all, they can be customized for different holidays or events by swapping out the M&Ms colors to match the theme. With minimal prep and ingredients, you’ll have a fun and delicious treat ready to impress your guests in no time.

Why People Love These Bars

What makes M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars irresistible is the combination of textures and flavors. The crunchy, candy-coated M&Ms complement the soft, chewy marshmallows, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. The buttery graham cracker base ties everything together with its rich flavor and crispness, balancing the sweetness of the marshmallows and chocolate. These bars appeal to both kids and adults because of their playful appearance and delicious taste. They are perfect for sharing at parties, bake sales, or simply as an after-dinner treat, bringing a sense of nostalgia and comfort with each bite.

Ingredients Overview

To make M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars, you only need a few basic ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store:

M&Ms – For color, crunch, and chocolatey goodness.
Marshmallows – The key ingredient for a soft and chewy texture.

Butter – Used to create a rich and flavorful graham cracker base.
Graham crackers – Crushed to form the crunchy crust that holds the bars together.
Sweetened condensed milk – Adds sweetness and creaminess, binding the ingredients.

These ingredients are versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste or fit the occasion. For example, you can swap out regular M&Ms for holiday-themed ones, add extra toppings like chocolate chips, or even use a different type of crust to create your own version of this delicious dessert. This makes the recipe both fun and flexible, suitable for all sorts of celebrations.

Step-by-Step Recipe & Tips

Preparing the Base

The graham cracker base is the foundation of M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars and provides a deliciously crunchy contrast to the soft marshmallow layer. Start by crushing the graham crackers into fine crumbs. You can either do this by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and using a rolling pin to crush them or using a food processor for quicker results. Once the graham crackers are crumbled, transfer them to a mixing bowl.

Next, melt the butter over low heat in a small saucepan or in the microwave. Pour the melted butter into the bowl with the graham cracker crumbs and mix thoroughly until the crumbs are fully coated. The mixture should have a texture that’s moist but crumbly, similar to wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a prepared baking dish to create an even, compact layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press it down, ensuring that it holds together during baking. The key to a great base is ensuring it’s firmly packed, so it doesn’t crumble apart when cutting the bars later.

Melting the Marshmallows

The melted marshmallow layer is what gives these bars their chewy, gooey texture. To melt the marshmallows, you can use either the stovetop or a microwave, depending on your preference.

Stovetop Method: Place the marshmallows and a small amount of butter in a large saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are fully melted and smooth. Be sure to keep the heat low to prevent the marshmallows from burning.
Microwave Method: Place the marshmallows and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.

No matter which method you choose, make sure not to overheat the marshmallows, as this can cause them to become too hard when they cool. The goal is a silky, smooth mixture that’s easy to spread over the graham cracker crust.

Layering the Ingredients

Now that you’ve prepared the graham cracker base and melted marshmallows, it’s time to layer the ingredients for maximum flavor and texture. Start by carefully spreading the melted marshmallow mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth it out, ensuring that it covers the entire surface of the crust.

Once the marshmallow layer is evenly spread, it’s time to add the M&Ms. Sprinkle a generous amount of M&Ms over the top of the marshmallow layer. You can use regular M&Ms for a classic look, or switch to holiday-themed colors to match the season. Be sure to distribute them evenly, so every bite is packed with a combination of crunchy candy and gooey marshmallow.

At this stage, you can also add any extra toppings you like, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or sprinkles for added texture and flavor. Once everything is layered, press the toppings gently into the marshmallow layer to ensure they stick as the bars bake.

Baking the Bars

Once your bars are assembled, it’s time to bake them to perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes.

The key to achieving the perfect texture is baking them just long enough for the marshmallows to set without becoming too hard. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges of the bars turn golden brown, and the marshmallow layer starts to puff up slightly. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking, as this can cause the marshmallows to harden too much, making the bars difficult to cut and chew.

Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the baking dish.

Cooling & Cutting

After baking, it’s important to let the M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars cool completely before cutting into them. This allows the layers to set properly and makes cutting much easier. You can leave them to cool at room temperature for about an hour, or if you’re in a hurry, place the baking dish in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes.

Once the bars are fully cooled, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles. For cleaner cuts, you can dip your knife in hot water before each cut to prevent the marshmallow from sticking. Wipe the knife with a paper towel after each slice for best results.

If the bars are too sticky to cut easily, letting them chill for a bit longer in the fridge can help. Cutting the bars into smaller pieces makes them easier to serve and enjoy, especially at parties or gatherings.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars is their versatility. You can easily customize them to suit different tastes or occasions with a few simple tweaks:

Different Types of M&Ms: You can use any type of M&Ms to change the flavor and texture of the bars. Try peanut M&Ms for an added crunch, caramel M&Ms for extra gooeyness, or mini M&Ms for more even distribution of chocolate in each bite. For holidays, use themed M&Ms in red and green for Christmas, pastel colors for Easter, or red, white, and blue for Fourth of July celebrations.

Additional Toppings: Get creative with your toppings by adding a drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel on top of the bars after they’ve cooled. You can also sprinkle on crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or sprinkles to enhance the flavor and texture.
Swap Marshmallows for Marshmallow Crème: If you prefer a smoother texture or want to skip melting marshmallows, you can substitute marshmallow crème or fluff. Simply spread the marshmallow crème over the graham cracker crust before adding the M&Ms and toppings.
Dietary Modifications: To make the bars gluten-free, substitute the graham cracker crust with gluten-free graham crackers or another gluten-free base. For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free butter and sweetened condensed coconut milk in place of regular condensed milk. There are plenty of ingredient swaps available to accommodate different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Storage, Serving Suggestions, and FAQs

How to Store M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars

To keep your M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container. At room temperature, they can last for up to 3 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can store them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for about a week.

If you’d like to make a large batch ahead of time, these bars can also be frozen. Simply wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the bars thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or pop them in the fridge overnight for best results.

Serving Suggestions

M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars are great on their own, but you can take them up a notch by pairing them with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. These bars are also perfect for parties or bake sales—serve them on a decorative tray, and watch them disappear!

You can even cut them into small squares and include them in dessert platters alongside brownies, cookies, or other sweets for a fun, shareable dessert experience.

FAQs

Can I use different types of candy instead of M&Ms?
Yes! You can swap out M&Ms for other candies like Reese’s Pieces, chocolate chips, or chopped peanut butter cups for a different flavor profile.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the bars a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container until ready to serve.

How long do they last after being made?
The bars will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.
What if my bars turn out too hard or too soft?
Over-baking can cause the bars to harden, while under-baking may make them too soft. Adjust the baking time and check for golden edges to achieve the perfect texture.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Yes! Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Adjust the baking time as needed.

M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars

Author: Munil

Print Recipe

Description

M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars are a deliciously sweet and colorful treat, combining a buttery graham cracker crust with gooey melted marshmallows and crunchy M&Ms. Perfect for parties, holidays, or a fun dessert at home, these bars are easy to make and a surefire hit with both kids and adults. The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to switch up the toppings or even adjust it for dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup mini marshmallows

1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 cup M&M’s candies
1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/2 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 cup crushed pretzels

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the crust, followed by a layer of M&M’s candies, chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and crushed pretzels.
Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top of the layers.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the marshmallows are melted and slightly toasted.
Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish.
Once cooled, cut into bars and serve. Enjoy the gooey, chocolatey goodness of these M&M Marshmallow Dream Bars!

Notes

Crust Firmness:
When preparing the graham cracker crust, be sure to press it down firmly into the baking dish. This ensures the bars hold together well when cutting and serving. You can use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to help pack the crumbs tightly.
Marshmallow Melting Tips:
For perfectly melted marshmallows, keep the heat low if using the stovetop. Stir constantly to prevent the marshmallows from burning. In the microwave, use short bursts of 20-30 seconds, stirring between each to avoid overcooking. Overheating can make the marshmallows too firm once they cool.
Even Topping Distribution:
When sprinkling the M&Ms, spread them evenly across the marshmallow layer to ensure each bite is filled with a delicious combination of flavors. You can lightly press them into the melted marshmallows to secure them better during baking.

Customization Ideas:
- Change the color of M&Ms to match a holiday or special event (e.g., red and green for Christmas, pastel for Easter).
- Add extra toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for added texture and flavor.

Cooling for Clean Cuts:
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting, either at room temperature or in the fridge. Cooling ensures the marshmallows set, making it easier to cut clean squares without the bars sticking to the knife.
Storing and Freezing:
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze the bars by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Dietary Adjustments:
For a gluten-free version, substitute the graham crackers with a gluten-free alternative. To make the bars dairy-free, use plant-based butter and sweetened condensed coconut milk in place of regular butter and milk.