Marshmallow Five Layer Bars
Sweet, chewy five-layer bars feature chocolate cake crust topped with marshmallows, chocolate chips, coconut, and pecans, perfect for casual gatherings and satisfying dessert cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the cake mix, melted margarine, and water until well blended.
- Pat the mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 20 to 22 minutes until the crust is set.
- Layer mini marshmallows, semi-sweet chocolate pieces, flaked coconut, and chopped pecans over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the marshmallows begin to melt.
- Allow the bars to cool before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. You can also use gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free. If you want a bit of a crunch, try adding crushed graham crackers to the crust mixture. Remember to watch the bars closely during the final baking time to prevent the marshmallows from burning.
Serving Suggestions
These Marshmallow Five Layer Bars make a delightful treat on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. They pair wonderfully with Tropical Party Punch for a festive gathering. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing at parties or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave a square for about 10-15 seconds until warm and slightly gooey.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marshmallow Five Layer Bars contains roughly 307 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 24g fat.
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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans add a nice flavor, you can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even skip the nuts altogether if you prefer a nut-free version. Just ensure that whatever nut you choose is chopped to similar sizes for even distribution.
What should I do if I don't have mini marshmallows?
If you don't have mini marshmallows, you can cut regular marshmallows into quarters and use those instead. Alternatively, you can use marshmallow fluff for a different texture, but it will require adjustments in the layering process since it won't melt in the same way.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will help them maintain their texture and flavor until you're ready to serve them.
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).