Easy Marshmallow Five Layer Bars
Chewy, chocolatey marshmallow layered bars with coconut and pecans, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for parties, picnics, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix package.
- Combine the cake mix and melted butter, then press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
- In a saucepan, mix water and cake mix, then cook until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Spread the cooked mixture evenly over the cake base in the pan.
- Sprinkle miniature marshmallows, chocolate chips, coconut, and chopped pecans evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and marshmallows are melted and bubbly.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular butter. If you're looking to cut calories, you can substitute a sugar-free cake mix and use unsweetened coconut. To ensure even baking, make sure to spread the marshmallows and chocolate chips evenly. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or substitute with more coconut.
Serving Suggestions
These Easy Marshmallow Five Layer Bars are perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, and they pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fun twist, serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. They also make a delightful treat alongside coffee or hot cocoa for an afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm and the chocolate chips are slightly melted. This will enhance the gooey texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Marshmallow Five Layer Bars contains roughly 1908 calories, with 22g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 173g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), iron (73% of the Daily Value), and protein (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. It also contributes 23g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! You can substitute the yellow or chocolate cake mix with any flavor you prefer, like red velvet or spice cake. Just keep in mind that different flavors may alter the overall taste of the bars, but it can lead to delicious variations.
How do I prevent the marshmallows from sticking?
To prevent sticking, you can lightly spray the marshmallows with cooking spray before adding them to the bars. Additionally, making sure the bars are completely cooled before cutting will help maintain their shape and prevent the marshmallows from becoming too gooey.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze Easy Marshmallow Five Layer Bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).