Yummy Yum Yum Bars
Delicious layered bars featuring chocolate cake flavor, gooey marshmallows, crunchy peanuts, perfect for parties or sweet treats. Easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the chocolate cake mix with water and pat into a greased and floured 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the baked base with marshmallows, M&M's, and peanuts.
- Bake for an additional 2 to 4 minutes or until the marshmallows and M&M's are melted.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the cake mix. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter is a great substitute. You can also mix in mini chocolate chips with the marshmallows for extra sweetness. For a crunchier texture, try using roasted peanuts or even swapping them out for almonds or walnuts, which pair beautifully with the chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
These Yum Yum Bars are perfect for parties or as a sweet treat after dinner. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert. They also pair well with fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas, making them a delightful complement to a summer picnic or barbecue.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Yum Yum Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until slightly warm, which will soften the marshmallows again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yummy Yum Yum Bars contains roughly 4 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While chocolate is a classic choice, you can experiment with other flavors such as vanilla or even red velvet for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the overall taste and sweetness may vary depending on the flavor chosen.
How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?
To prevent burning, keep a close eye on the bars during the last few minutes of baking. You can also cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil if they start browning too quickly. Removing them from the oven as soon as the marshmallows are puffed and slightly golden will help achieve the perfect texture.
Can these bars be made ahead of time?
Yes! Yum Yum Bars can be made a day in advance, making them great for parties or gatherings. Just follow the recipe, allow them to cool completely, and store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to a month; just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
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).