M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe for its speed and simplicity. With just five minutes of prep and zero baking, I can whip up a big batch of delicious bars in no time. The combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and butterscotch is rich and comforting, while the mini marshmallows add a light, chewy texture. The M&Ms on top bring a fun pop of color and crunch that makes these bars feel extra special. Whether I’m making treats for a potluck, a birthday, or just for myself, these dream bars never disappoint.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 11 oz butterscotch chips

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• 10.5 oz mini marshmallows

• 1 cup M&Ms

Directions

1. I line a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick foil and set it aside.

2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, I combine the chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, and peanut butter. I microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until it’s fully melted and smooth.

3. I stir in the mini marshmallows until they’re completely coated in the chocolate mixture.

4. Then I pour everything into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

5. I sprinkle the M&Ms over the top and gently press them down so they stick.

6. The bars go into the refrigerator for about 2 hours, or until they’re firm and set.

7. Once chilled, I cut them into squares and store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 36 bars.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes swap the M&Ms for crushed pretzels or chopped nuts if I want a salty twist.

• For a holiday version, I use seasonal M&Ms to match the occasion.

• If I’m out of butterscotch chips, I replace them with more chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips.

• I like to mix in a handful of Rice Krispies for added crunch.

• For a nut-free option, I substitute sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter.

Storage/Reheating

I store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them firm. They stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, I freeze them in a sealed container with parchment between layers, and they thaw perfectly at room temperature. These bars don’t need reheating, but if I want a gooier texture, I leave them out of the fridge for about 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

How long do these bars last?

They stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week, and they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I make these bars without a microwave?

Yes, I can melt the mixture over a double boiler on the stovetop if I prefer not to use a microwave.

What kind of peanut butter works best?

I use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture. Natural peanut butter can separate and may not mix as well.

Can I use large marshmallows?

I recommend mini marshmallows because they mix more evenly, but I can chop large ones into smaller pieces if that’s all I have.

Are these bars gluten-free?

The ingredients themselves can be gluten-free, but I always check the packaging—especially for the M&Ms and butterscotch chips—to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars are a go-to treat when I want something quick, colorful, and crowd-pleasing. They come together in minutes, require no baking, and deliver the perfect mix of creamy, chewy, and crunchy textures. Whether I’m making them for a celebration or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these bars always hit the spot.

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