Rainbow Nut Bars
Colorful and indulgent, these Rainbow Nut Bars combine creamy peanut butter, butterscotch, marshmallows, nuts, and coconut into a sweet, crunchy treat perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter, peanut butter, and butterscotch chips together over low heat.
- Cool the mixture slightly.
- Add marshmallows, chopped nuts, and 1 cup of coconut to the mixture.
- Mix well until combined.
- Pat the mixture into a buttered 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining coconut on top.
- Cool until firm in the refrigerator.
- Cut into small bars and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use smooth peanut butter instead of chunky. If you want to add a little crunch, consider substituting half the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin. You can also swap the butterscotch chips for chocolate chips for a different flavor. Make sure to keep the heat low while melting to prevent burning the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Rainbow Nut Bars are delightful on their own but also pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. For a fun dessert platter, serve them alongside Mom'S Pineapple-Coconut Bars and Brownies (Mom'S) for a variety of flavors. They make great snacks for parties, picnics, or after-school treats.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Rainbow Nut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can freeze the bars for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them individually to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rainbow Nut Bars contains roughly 558 calories, with 6g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans, depending on your preference. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they mix well with the other ingredients.
What can I do if my mixture is too sticky?
If the mixture is too sticky to handle, you can lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray while pressing it into the pan. Alternatively, chilling the mixture in the refrigerator for a short time before pressing can also help it firm up and become easier to work with.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free butterscotch chips and ensuring that your nuts and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.
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).