Chef Mitchell preparing Gooey Chocolate Marshmallow Bars
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with chocolate desserts for a family gathering. The combination of gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate was an instant hit. Over the years, I've perfected the recipe to ensure it's both easy and delicious. Now, these bars are a staple in my household and loved by everyone who tries them."

With over 10 years of experience in the culinary world, I specialize in American cuisine and snack recipes. Having created over 1000 recipes, my goal is to share delicious and simple meals that anyone can make at home. My culinary journey began in a professional kitchen, and I have a passion for creating comforting and tasty dishes.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Gooey Chocolate Marshmallow Bars served on a plate

Why This Gooey Chocolate Marshmallow Bars Recipe Works

This recipe combines the richness of chocolate with the fluffiness of marshmallows, creating a delightful texture that appeals to all. The balance of sweetness and chocolate flavor makes these bars irresistible. Plus, they are simple to make and perfect for any occasion.

The technique of folding marshmallows into the batter just before baking ensures that they remain soft and gooey in the final product. This method creates a delicious contrast with the firm chocolate base, resulting in an enjoyable treat.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips. This will enhance the chocolate flavor and ensure your bars are as rich as possible. Also, be careful not to overbake; you want them to remain soft and gooey in the center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the bars a day in advance. Once they are baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Just make sure to add the confectioners' sugar right before serving to keep them looking fresh.

You may substitute an equal amount of coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Alternatively, unsweetened applesauce can be used to reduce fat content, but this may alter the texture slightly, resulting in a less rich flavor.

The bars are done when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs. Keep in mind that they will firm up as they cool, so it's okay if they look slightly underbaked in the center.

Absolutely! These bars can be frozen for up to three months. After baking and cooling, slice them into squares, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.

These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel on top can elevate them even further. Serve them with a glass of milk for a classic treat!

When stored in an airtight container, these bars can last in the fridge for about a week. However, they are best enjoyed fresh for optimal gooeyness.

Yes, making them in advance is recommended for parties or events. Just prepare them the day before, cool, and store properly. Adding the confectioners' sugar just before serving will help retain their appearance.

To reheat, place the bars in a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 10-15 seconds. This will make them warm and gooey again. If you're reheating multiple bars, adjust the time accordingly to avoid overheating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your bars turn out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or not enough fat in the recipe.

Solution: To prevent this, ensure you follow the baking time closely, and consider adding a bit more butter next time to keep them moist.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Some may find the bars lacking in crispiness on the edges.

Solution: You can achieve a crisper edge by baking them a few minutes longer, but watch closely to prevent burning.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the bars have a dry or tough texture, they may be overcooked.

Prevention: Next time, reduce the baking time slightly and check for doneness earlier to maintain the gooey texture.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center is too gooey and not set, it could be undercooked.

Recovery: To recover, return the bars to the oven for a few minutes, checking frequently to avoid overbaking.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the edges of the bars are burnt, it may be due to uneven heat in the oven.

Prevention: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures and consider using an insulated baking pan for even baking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the bars are too sweet, consider reducing the sugar in the recipe or adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Too Salty: If they taste too salty, ensure to measure your salt accurately next time and double-check other ingredients that might contribute sodium.

Bland: For a bland flavor, add extra vanilla extract or a pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate taste.

Fresh ingredients for Gooey Chocolate Marshmallow Bars

Essential Ingredients for Gooey Chocolate Marshmallow Bars

The core ingredients include butter, sugars, eggs, and cocoa powder, which all work together to create a rich, chocolatey base. The mini marshmallows are key to achieving the gooey texture that sets these bars apart from regular brownies.

Using high-quality chocolate chips will greatly enhance the flavor of your bars. Choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a more intense chocolate experience. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in the final outcome.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Butter: Always use unsalted butter for baking. This allows you to control the saltiness of your dessert. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth batter.
  • Cocoa Powder: Choose a high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa will give a rich, smooth taste, while natural cocoa offers a more robust chocolate flavor. Store it in a cool, dry place for longevity.
  • Chocolate Chips: Opt for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness. Avoid chocolate chips that contain added wax, as they won't melt smoothly. You can also mix different types of chocolate for added depth.
Cooking process for Gooey Chocolate Marshmallow Bars

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

This recipe involves simple steps that anyone can follow. Start by mixing your butter and sugars until creamy, then incorporate the eggs and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients for a smooth batter, and finish by folding in the chocolate chips.

Achieving the perfect texture is key. Don’t overmix once the flour is added, as this can lead to toughness. Bake until the edges are just set, allowing the center to remain gooey and delicious.

Key Technique for Perfect Gooey Chocolate Marshmallow Bars

The key to achieving the perfect gooeyness is in the baking time. Pull the bars out of the oven when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, ensuring they retain their gooey center. The residual heat will continue to cook them slightly as they cool.

Gooey Chocolate Marshmallow Bars

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
    For sweetness
  • 1 cup brown sugar
    Packed for richness
  • 2 cups mini marshmallows
    For gooey texture
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
    For chocolate flavor

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup butter, softened
    Key fat for richness
  • 4 large eggs
    Bind the mixture
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    Base for structure
  • 1 cup cocoa powder
    For chocolate flavor
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    For leavening
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    Enhances flavor
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
    For added crunch
  • 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar for dusting
    Finishing touch

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

  2. Mix Butter and Sugars

    In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla

    Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

  4. Combine Dry Ingredients

    In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

  5. Mix Dry into Wet

    Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

  6. Fold in Chocolate Chips

    Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.

  7. Spread in Pan

    Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.

  8. Add Marshmallows

    Sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the top of the batter.

  9. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.

  10. Cool and Dust

    Allow to cool completely in the pan, then dust with confectioners' sugar and cut into squares.

  11. Serve

    Enjoy your gooey chocolate marshmallow bars warm or at room temperature.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To keep your Gooey Chocolate Marshmallow Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be refrigerated for extended freshness but may lose some of their gooey texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra treat. They are perfect for parties or as a sweet snack any time of the day.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to add different mix-ins like peanut butter chips, caramel swirls, or dried fruits for a unique twist. You can also experiment with different nuts for added crunch.