Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars Recipe: A Delicious Treat for Every Occasion
Introduction
Looking for a delightful dessert that is easy to make and will satisfy your sweet cravings? Look no further than this Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars recipe. These gooey and decadent treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a sweet indulgence after a long day. With their rich butterscotch flavor and fluffy marshmallow topping, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1 cup shredded coconut
For the Topping:
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups miniature marshmallows
- 1 cup butterscotch chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Steps
Step 1: Preparing the Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, butterscotch chips, and shredded coconut. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 2: Pressing the Base
Transfer the base mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Using the back of a spoon or your hands, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the dish. Ensure that the base is tightly packed to prevent it from crumbling later.
Step 3: Adding the Topping
Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the prepared base, spreading it evenly with a spoon or spatula. Sprinkle the miniature marshmallows, butterscotch chips, and chopped nuts (if using) on top of the condensed milk. Press the toppings gently into the milk to ensure they stick.
Step 4: Baking the Bars
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the marshmallows are lightly toasted. Keep an eye on the bars during the last few minutes to prevent them from burning.
Step 5: Cooling and Slicing
Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This will allow the bars to set and become easier to slice. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles of your desired size.
Variations
While the classic Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars are already delicious on their own, you can add your own twist to this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
Chocolate Drizzle:
After the bars have cooled, melt some chocolate (milk, dark, or white) and drizzle it over the top for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Peanut Butter Swirl:
Add a swirl of peanut butter to the condensed milk before adding the toppings. Use a knife or toothpick to create a marbled effect before baking.
Fruity Twist:
Sprinkle dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, on top of the condensed milk along with the other toppings. This adds a burst of fruity flavor to the bars.
Tips
- Make sure to tightly pack the base mixture to prevent it from crumbling when sliced.
- For a neater appearance, use a ruler or straight edge to press the base mixture evenly into the baking dish.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean and even cuts.
- Experiment with different toppings and variations to customize the bars to your liking.
Conclusion
These Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars are a delightful treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth. With their gooey marshmallow topping and rich butterscotch flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want to indulge in a delicious dessert, this recipe is a must-try. So gather the ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy these mouthwatering bars that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
While it is recommended to use unsalted butter to have better control over the saltiness of the recipe, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful of the additional saltiness it may add.
2. Can I substitute butterscotch chips with other types of chips?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of chips such as chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or peanut butter chips to create your own unique flavor combination.
3. Can I make these bars in advance?
Absolutely! These bars can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They also freeze well, so you can make a large batch and enjoy them later.
4. Can I omit the shredded coconut?
If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can omit it from the recipe without any major changes. The bars will still turn out delicious and gooey.
5. How long do these bars stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these bars can stay fresh for up to 5-7 days. However, they are so delicious that they are unlikely to last that long!
