The holiday season always seems to sprinkle a little extra magic into the air, doesn't it? For me, that magic often comes alive in the kitchen, especially when I whip up a batch of these delicious Christmas bars. With a rich blend of chocolate, gooey marshmallows, and a delightful crunch from graham cracker crumbs, each bite feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day.
What I love most is how adaptable these bars are; whether you’re looking for something nut-free, gluten-free, or even vegan, there’s a version for everyone at your holiday gatherings. In just about 45 minutes, you can create a dessert that not only pleases a crowd but also fills your home with tantalizing aromas that will entice friends and family alike! So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this easy and customizable holiday treat that's sure to become a staple in your festive repertoire.
Why Choose Christmas Bars for the Holidays?
Simplicity at Its Best: These Christmas Bars come together in just 45 minutes, making them a quick baking solution for holiday cravings.
Endless Customization: From nut-free to vegan options, you can easily adapt this recipe to fit any dietary needs or preferences.
Rich, Chocolatey Goodness: Each bite offers a decadent chocolate flavor paired with chewy marshmallows, giving them a delightful texture that’s sure to impress.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for festive gatherings, these bars will keep friends and family returning for seconds. Don’t forget to check out our other delicious easy holiday desserts for more sweet treats!
Perfect for Gifting: Package them beautifully, and you have the ideal homemade gift for loved ones this season!
Christmas Bars Ingredients
For the Base
• Graham Cracker Crumbs - Provides a sweet, crunchy base. You can crush whole graham crackers if preferred, ensuring a fresh taste.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder - Adds rich chocolate flavor. Use high-quality cocoa for the best results, enhancing the overall chocolatey goodness.
• Powdered Sugar - Sweetens the bars and gives them a smooth texture. This is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Unsalted Butter (melted) - Binds the mixture together while adding richness. Substitute with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
For the Filling
• Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can) - Adds moisture and sweetness, creating that lovely chewy texture that brings everything together.
• Mini Marshmallows - Introduces a fun, chewy element. Regular marshmallows can be used, but mini ones distribute better throughout the bars.
• Chocolate Chips - Adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness. Choose between dark, milk, or white chocolate chips based on your preference.
Optional Add-ins
• Chopped Nuts - Introduces a delightful crunch. Omit for nut allergies or substitute with seeds for a nut-free version.
These Christmas Bars are not just easy to make but also adaptable to fit various dietary needs, making them a versatile treat for your holiday celebrations!
How to Make Christmas Bars
Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and perfect texture for your Christmas bars.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed together, giving your bars a sweet base.
Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the melted butter and sweetened condensed milk into the dry mixture. Stir until fully combined, transforming it into a sticky, cohesive batter.
Fold in Mix-ins: For the Filling: Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips, along with any chopped nuts if you’re using them. Be careful not to overmix; you want those delicious chunks evenly distributed.
Spread and Bake: Spread your mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula, then bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly firm.
Cool and Cut: Allow your Christmas bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This helps them hold their shape better and makes them easier to serve.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of decadence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Christmas Bars?
Experience a festive explosion of flavors as you enjoy these delightful treats alongside your favorite holiday accompaniments.
- Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolatey flavor of hot cocoa pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bars, warming every chilly evening.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing contrast to the chewy texture of the Christmas bars, making each bite extra special.
- Peppermint Tea: The minty notes of peppermint tea offer a refreshing finish, balancing the richness of the bars while adding a festive touch.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a mix of fresh berries for a burst of acidity, cutting through the sweetness and elevating the holiday experience.
- Holiday Punch: A fruity or spiced holiday punch adds a bubbly and enjoyable element alongside these indulgent bars, perfect for gatherings.
- Cheese Board: Create a fun cheese board with assorted cheeses and crackers, where the sweet bars can shine as a dessert option to a savory spread.
- Fudge Brownies: For the true chocolate lover, serve alongside decadent fudge brownies for a double-chocolate delight that will steal the spotlight.
- Nutty Granola: Sprinkle a bit of nutty granola on top of the bars for added crunch and flavor contrast; it's a delightful surprise!
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the bars for an extra touch of indulgence that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Spiced Nuts: A handful of lightly spiced nuts provides a delightful crunch and a savory counterpart to the rich, chewy Christmas bars.
Creative Ideas for Christmas Bars
These delightful treats can be a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen.
- Nut-Free Variation: Omit the chopped nuts; increase the chocolate chips for extra sweetness and a satisfying texture.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour in place of regular graham cracker crumbs for a safe option.
- Vegan Twist: Replace butter with melted coconut oil and use a vegan-friendly version of sweetened condensed milk for a dairy-free treat.
- Festive Mint Flavor: Stir in peppermint extract to the mixture for a refreshing and festive mint chocolate flavor that will enchant your taste buds.
- Fruity Delight: Add in dried cranberries or cherries for a pop of color and a tart contrast to the sweet chocolate and marshmallows.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a fun unexpected heat that brightens up the chocolate flavors.
- Coconut Infusion: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical twist that complements the chocolate wonderfully.
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce throughout the batter before baking for a rich, gooey addition that elevates the bars to indulgent levels.
Expert Tips for Making Christmas Bars
- Perfect Butter: Ensure the butter is fully melted to avoid clumps in your mixture, leading to smooth and cohesive Christmas bars.
- Parchment Lining: Use parchment paper to line your baking pan for effortless removal and cleanup-no sticky mess!
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting to prevent crumbling and ensure clean, neat squares.
- Mix-Ins Mastery: Feel free to get creative with mix-ins, but don't overmix the batter; this helps maintain a chewy texture.
- Storing Tips: Keep your bars in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and flavor; they can last up to a week!
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for enhanced flavor in your Christmas bars.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Bars
Room Temperature: Store your Christmas bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the bars in the fridge where they can last up to 2 weeks; just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: Feel free to freeze your Christmas bars wrapped well in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: If frozen, you can reheat thawed bars in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that fresh, gooey goodness.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the base mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, melted butter, and sweetened condensed milk, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, fold in the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips, spread the mixture in your baking pan, and bake as directed. For optimal texture and taste, it’s best to cool the bars completely before cutting them; this allows them to set properly. By prepping ahead, you'll save precious time during the busy holiday season while still enjoying these delicious Christmas Bars just as they should be-rich, chewy, and utterly satisfying!
Christmas Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of graham cracker crumbs should I use?
Absolutely! Using regular graham cracker crumbs gives a lovely sweetness and crunch. You can also use whole graham crackers and crush them yourself for a fresher taste.
How should I store my Christmas bars?
Keep your Christmas bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, ensuring they stay chewy and delicious. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the fridge where they can stay fresh for about two weeks.
Can I freeze Christmas bars? How?
Yes, you can definitely freeze them! Wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and, if you like, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that gooey consistency.
What if my mixture seems too dry?
If your bar mixture appears too dry, it's likely because the butter isn't melted completely or you may need to add a bit more sweetened condensed milk. Start with a tablespoon or two, mixing until you reach the desired consistency.
Are these Christmas bars suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes, they are easily adaptable! Just omit the chopped nuts, and you can still enjoy the delightful flavors. Feel free to replace the nuts with extra chocolate chips or some seeds to retain that crunch without any allergens.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, substitute the unsalted butter with melted coconut oil and use a homemade or store-bought vegan condensed milk. This way, everyone can enjoy these festive treats!
Indulgent Christmas Bars: Easy, Chewy, and Totally Customizable
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Stir well.
- Pour in melted butter and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until fully combined.
- Gently fold in mini marshmallows and chocolate chips, along with any chopped nuts.
- Spread mixture into a greased baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Allow bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
- Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.
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