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Irresistible Irish Mint Marshmallow Bars

Irish Mint Marshmallow Bars - featured image

These Irish Mint Marshmallow Bars are a quick and easy homemade treat bursting with minty freshness and gooey sweetness, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations or any festive occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal (or any crisped rice cereal you prefer)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 10 ounces marshmallows (about 4 cups mini marshmallows or 1 large bag)
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • Green food coloring (optional, a few drops)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Optional garnishes: crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
  • Optional garnishes: white chocolate drizzle

Instructions

  1. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. Lightly grease the paper with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in the microwave until just melted (about 30 seconds). Stir in 3 cups of Rice Krispies cereal and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Toss gently to coat the cereal evenly. Set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add 10 ounces of marshmallows and stir continuously until melted and smooth (about 5-7 minutes).
  4. Remove from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon peppermint extract and a few drops of green food coloring (if using). Mix until color is evenly distributed.
  5. Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the cereal in the large bowl. Fold gently but thoroughly until every bit of cereal is coated.
  6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Using a buttered spatula or wax paper, press the mixture evenly and firmly into the pan without pressing too hard.
  7. If desired, sprinkle crushed candy canes or drizzle melted white chocolate on top. Press gently to embed toppings slightly.
  8. Let the bars cool at room temperature for about 1 hour until firm. Refrigerate to speed up setting if desired, but avoid freezing.
  9. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife, wiping the knife with a warm damp cloth between slices for cleaner cuts.

Notes

[‘Use vegan marshmallows and coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.’, ‘Use certified gluten-free cereal for gluten-free bars.’, ‘Melting marshmallows on low heat prevents scorching.’, ‘Grease utensils to prevent sticking.’, ‘Do not over-press the mixture into the pan to keep bars light and chewy.’, ‘Start with less peppermint extract and add more to taste to avoid overpowering flavor.’, ‘Warm knife under hot water and dry before slicing for clean cuts.’, ‘Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: Irish Mint Marshmallow Bars, St. Patrick's Day dessert, mint marshmallow bars, easy homemade treats, peppermint dessert, Rice Krispies bars