As the holiday season approaches, the joy of baking and sharing sweet treats becomes an essential part of the celebration. Among the many delightful desserts that grace our tables, Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars stand out for their festive colors, wonderful flavors, and irresistibly soft texture. These bars are not just a dessert; they embody the spirit of Christmas, bringing together family and friends over something deliciously sweet.
Why We Love This Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars Recipe
What makes Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars so beloved is their easy preparation and delightful flavors. They combine layers of soft cake, fluffy marshmallows, and crispy cereal into a treat that’s both chewy and crunchy, perfect for satisfying any sweet craving. The festive colors of red, green, and white sprinkles add a visually appealing touch, making them an excellent addition to any holiday spread. Not only do they taste great, but they also evoke a sense of joy and nostalgia, reminding you of cozy gatherings and festive cheer.
Ingredients for Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars
To prepare this delightful treat, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups white cake mix
- ½ box standard cake mix
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup oil
- 3 tablespoons sprinkles (red, green, and white jimmies)
- 7 ounces marshmallow cream
- 1 ½ tablespoons butter
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 cups holiday Fruity Pebbles or Rice Krispies
These ingredients work together to create layers that are not just flavorful but also bring a wonderful texture contrast to the bars.
How to Make Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars Directions
Creating these Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars is a straightforward process that offers a fun baking experience for both novices and seasoned bakers. Follow these steps for a delightful outcome:
- Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the initial layer of your bars while you prepare the other elements.
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, half of the standard cake mix, egg, oil, and sprinkles. Stir these ingredients until just blended. The mixture should be thick and sticky but spreadable.
- Press into the pan: Take a greased 9×9-inch baking pan and press the dough evenly across the bottom. Ensure the layer is snug and flat to allow even baking.
- Bake the crust: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until it’s slightly firm and lightly golden. This forms the layer that will support your gooey top.
- Add the marshmallow cream: Once removed from the oven, dollop spoonfuls of marshmallow cream over the baked layer. Allow the cream to heat and spread naturally; this will create a delicious marshmallowy center for your bars.
- Prepare the top layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter for about 20 seconds. Then, add the mini marshmallows and stir until they’re coated in the melted butter. Microwave this mixture for 45 seconds and stir until you achieve a smooth and glossy marshmallow mix. If not fully melted, you can microwave for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the crispy cereal: Gently fold in the Fruity Pebbles or Rice Krispies to the melted marshmallows. This will give your bars that wonderful crunch.
- Layer it up: Carefully spread the marshmallow cream layer evenly, then drop spoonfuls of the crispy mixture across the cream. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring you cover the marshmallow layer.
- Cool and cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. For the best results, avoid cutting them until right before serving to maintain their chewy texture.
These easy steps will lead you to a batch of Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars that will impress family, friends, and any holiday guests!
How to Serve Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars
Serving your Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars can be as fun and festive as preparing them. Here are a few ideas to elevate your serving game:
- Display them on a festive platter: Use a decorative holiday platter to showcase your bars. Layer them neatly, placing some sprinkles on top for that extra festive touch.
- Pair with beverages: These bars go wonderfully with warm seasonal drinks like hot cocoa or peppermint-flavored beverages. The mix of flavors complements the sweetness of the bars perfectly.
- Gift them: If you’re looking for a heartfelt gift for neighbors or friends, cut the bars into squares and package them in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. It’s a simple yet thoughtful gift that embodies the spirit of the season.
- Dessert table highlight: For holiday gatherings, place the bars amid your dessert table spread. They offer a colorful contrast against traditional holiday cookies and cakes.
With these serving suggestions, you can ensure your Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars are the star of the show.
Expert Tips for Making Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars
To make your Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars even more delightful, consider these expert tips:
- Don’t overmix the dough: When combining the ingredients for the crust, mix just until everything is blended. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which is not what you want for these gooey bars.
- Chill the marshmallow cream slightly: If your marshmallow cream is too runny, chilling it briefly in the refrigerator can make it easier to spoon onto the crust without spreading too much.
- Monitor the baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your crust while baking. It should be firm but not too browned. You can always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when ready.
- Allow them to cool completely: Patience is key! If you cut the bars too soon, they may fall apart. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature for the best results.
- Mix and match cereals: Feel free to experiment with different cereals or add-ins, such as crushed peppermint for an extra holiday flair. This allows you to personalize the bars to your taste.
Following these tips will help you create the perfect Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars everyone will enjoy!
How to Store Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars
Keeping your Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars fresh is simple when you know how to store them properly:
- Room Temperature: If you anticipate consuming them within a few days, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature. Line the container with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can place the bars in the refrigerator. Just remember to wrap the container tightly to avoid any absorption of odors from other foods.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
With these storage tips, you can enjoy your Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars beyond the holiday season!
Variations of Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars
While the classic recipe is delightful on its own, there are numerous variations you can explore to keep things exciting:
- Chocolate Peppermint Ooey Gooey Bars: Fold in some crushed candy canes into the marshmallow layer to give it a minty twist, or incorporate cocoa powder into the cake mix for a chocolatey base.
- Nutty Holiday Bars: For a crunchy texture, add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the crispy cereal mixture. This adds a wonderful contrast to the gooeyness of the bars.
- Fruit and Nut Mix: Mix in dried cranberries or cherries into the marshmallow cream before spreading, and sprinkle some slivered almonds on top for a festive touch.
- Layer with Frosting: Drizzle with a simple icing (powdered sugar mixed with milk) once the bars cool for an extra sweet layer. This can be done with flavored extracts like almond or vanilla for added depth.
Experimenting with these variations allows you to customize the bars to suit your own preferences or to cater to the tastes of your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars?
Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars are a festive dessert made from layers of cake mix, marshmallow cream, and crispy cereal. They’re characterized by their chewy texture and colorful presentation, making them perfect for holiday celebrations.
How do I make my Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars even more festive?
You can add festive-colored sprinkles, use holiday-themed cereal, or incorporate flavors like peppermint or chocolate to enhance the holiday spirit and presentation.
What should I do if my marshmallow cream is too stiff?
If your marshmallow cream is too stiff to spread, try warming it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds. This should make it easier to work with.
Is it necessary to chill the bars before serving?
Chilling is not necessary, but it can help the bars set better and make them easier to cut. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature before serving for the best results.
Can I freeze Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars?
Yes! They freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Christmas Ooey Gooey Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1.5 cups white cake mix
- 0.5 box standard cake mix half of a standard size box
- 1 large egg
- 0.25 cup oil can use vegetable or canola oil
- 3 tablespoons sprinkles (red, green, and white jimmies)
For the filling and topping
- 7 ounces marshmallow cream
- 1.5 tablespoons butter melted
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 3 cups holiday Fruity Pebbles or Rice Krispies for crispy topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, half of the standard cake mix, the egg, oil, and sprinkles. Stir until just blended.
- Press the dough evenly into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
Baking
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until it’s slightly firm and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and dollop spoonfuls of marshmallow cream over the baked layer.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and then add the mini marshmallows. Microwave for 45 seconds and stir until smooth.
- Gently fold in the Fruity Pebbles or Rice Krispies to the melted marshmallow mix.
- Spread the marshmallow cream layer evenly, then drop and spread the crispy mixture over it.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
- Serve on a festive platter and enjoy with warm beverages or as a holiday gift.
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