Marshmallow Cherry Bars
Marshmallow Cherry Bars offer a delightful combination of sweet cherries, crunchy almonds, and fluffy marshmallow topping on a buttery crust, perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a sweet treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine margarine, brown sugar, and flour and press into an ungreased pan.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for 30 minutes; let cool.
- Soften gelatin in cold water.
- Combine sugar drained from cherries, cherry juice, and water to make 1/2 cup.
- Bring to a boil and boil for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in softened gelatin.
- Beat at medium speed until very stiff, about 20 minutes.
- Fold in cherries, chopped almonds, red food coloring, and almond extract.
- Spread the marshmallow mixture over the baked crust.
- Let stand at room temperature until it sets.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved before adding it to the hot mixture. You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped almonds or replace them with sunflower seeds. Adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar slightly if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the marshmallow cherry bars into squares and serve as a delightful dessert. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added indulgence. Consider serving them alongside a refreshing Easy Waldorf Salad for a balanced treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover marshmallow cherry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To refresh them, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marshmallow Cherry Bars contains roughly 260 calories, with 5g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh cherries instead of jarred cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but you'll need to pit and chop them before adding. Keep in mind that fresh cherries may have a slightly different texture and flavor compared to jarred ones.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make the marshmallow cherry bars vegan, replace the margarine with a vegan butter alternative and use a vegan-friendly gelatin substitute like agar-agar. Ensure all other ingredients are also plant-based.
What can I do if the marshmallow mixture doesn't set?
If the mixture doesn't set, it may be due to insufficient gelatin or not beating it long enough. Try chilling it in the refrigerator for a bit longer. If you find it still hasn't set, you could blend in more softened gelatin dissolved in water.
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).