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Creamy Hot Cocoa Bomb Bars: Easy Marshmallow Treat

Creamy Hot Cocoa Bomb Bars - featured image

A no-bake, comforting dessert featuring a rich dark chocolate base topped with toasted marshmallows. These bars are quick to make, using simple pantry staples for an indulgent winter treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup dark cocoa powder
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy (optional)

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, heavy cream, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.
  3. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches a gentle simmer and the cocoa is fully dissolved, about 5 minutes. Do not let it boil vigorously.
  4. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Add 1 cup of mini marshmallows to the hot chocolate mixture and stir gently until mostly melted and incorporated.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press down evenly to form a firm, flat base. Let cool for 10 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mini marshmallows evenly over the base. Add white chocolate chips if using.
  8. Place the pan under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely, until marshmallows puff up and turn golden brown. Alternatively, use a kitchen torch.
  9. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature to allow the topping to firm up.
  10. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper, slice into squares, and sprinkle with crushed peppermint if desired.

Notes

Keep heat low when melting the base to prevent burning the cocoa. Watch marshmallows closely under the broiler as they burn quickly. Bars are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For dairy-free, substitute butter and cream with coconut-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot cocoa, marshmallow bars, no-bake dessert, winter treats, chocolate dessert, easy recipes, holiday baking