Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars

These Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with the sweetness of maraschino cherries and fluffy vegan marshmallows. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With their creamy texture and fruity flavor, they stand out as a unique dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious fudge bars without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of semi-sweet chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and maraschino cherries creates an irresistible taste that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
• Versatile Treat: These fudge bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply as a sweet snack at home. They can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without any animal-derived products, these fudge bars are suitable for those following a vegan lifestyle.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or fruits to make these bars even more unique!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making these Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-inch square baking dish
• Parchment paper or foil
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• 8-inch square baking dish: This size is perfect for creating thick fudge bars that hold their shape well.
• Parchment paper or foil: Using this helps with easy removal of the fudge from the pan, ensuring clean cuts when slicing into bars.

Ingredients

These Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars are rich, creamy, and packed with bursts of fruity flavor from maraschino cherries and fluffy sweetness from mini vegan marshmallows. Perfect for a quick and decadent dessert!

For the Filling

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Mix-Ins

• 1 cup maraschino cherries (drained)
• 2 cups mini vegan marshmallows

How to Make Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate Mixture

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt chocolate chips and butter, stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in sweetened condensed milk until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Fold in Mix-Ins

Gently fold in drained maraschino cherries and mini vegan marshmallows, ensuring even distribution.

Step 5: Set the Fudge

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Use the overhang to lift the fudge out of the pan. Slice into bars and serve chilled.

How to Serve Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars

These Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars are delightful as they are, but you can elevate the experience with some creative serving ideas. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your dessert presentation.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the fudge bars alongside a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the fudge beautifully.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over the fudge bars adds an extra layer of decadence. This simple touch can make your dessert look gourmet.

Topped with Whipped Coconut Cream

• Lighten up the rich flavors with a dollop of whipped coconut cream on top. This adds a creamy texture and a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with cherries.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the fudge bars on a decorative dessert platter along with other sweet treats for a visually appealing spread at parties or gatherings.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two fudge bars to create an ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite plant-based ice cream for a delightful treat that’ll wow your guests.

How to Perfect Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars

To ensure your Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use quality chocolate chips: Select high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for rich flavor. The better the chocolate, the tastier your fudge will be.

• Don’t overheat the chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips over low heat to prevent burning. Stir constantly for smooth results and avoid lumps.

• Fold gently: When incorporating cherries and marshmallows, fold gently to prevent breaking them apart. This keeps their shape and texture intact in each bar.

• Chill properly: Allow enough time in the refrigerator for the fudge to firm up completely. Overnight chilling is best for optimal texture.

• Cut with a hot knife: For clean edges, dip your knife in hot water before slicing. Wipe it dry between cuts to maintain neatness.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars can create a balanced dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement this sweet treat.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing out the rich flavors of the fudge bars.

2. Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy nutty granola on the side for added texture and flavor contrast, making each bite more interesting.

3. Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of plant-based ice cream provides a creamy counterpart that pairs deliciously with the chewier fudge bars.

4. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of chocolate-covered pretzels makes an excellent contrast to sweet cherry flavors in the fudge.

5. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy coconut treats echo some of the same flavors found in the fudge while offering a different texture.

6. Chia Seed Pudding: A light chia seed pudding can offer balance and nutrition, making it a great accompaniment without overshadowing your dessert’s richness.

7. Caramelized Bananas: Sweet caramelized bananas add warmth and depth; serve them warm beside chilled fudge bars for an exciting temperature contrast.

8. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti provide a satisfying crunch that works well when dipped into coffee or enjoyed alongside your fudge bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using the wrong type of chocolate: Ensure you use semi-sweet chocolate chips for the perfect balance of sweetness in your fudge bars.
• Not draining cherries fully: Excess liquid from maraschino cherries can make your fudge too runny. Be sure to drain them well before adding.
• Skipping refrigeration time: Allowing the fudge to chill for at least 4 hours ensures it firms properly. Don’t rush this step!
• Overheating the chocolate: Melt chocolate over low heat and stir continuously to prevent burning. A gentle approach yields a smooth texture.
• Neglecting parchment paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment paper is crucial for easy removal of the fudge once set. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil for freezing.
• Use an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm bars for about 5-10 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid melting completely.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars.

Can I customize the flavors in my Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars?

Yes! You can add different fruits like raspberries or use various flavored chocolates to create unique versions of these fudge bars.

What if I don’t have mini vegan marshmallows?

You can chop larger vegan marshmallows into smaller pieces as a substitute, ensuring they mix well into the fudge.

How do I ensure my fudge bars set properly?

Make sure you refrigerate them for enough time (at least 4 hours) so they can firm up correctly and hold their shape when sliced.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars are perfect for making ahead of time. Just store them properly as mentioned above.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry vegan marshmallows Fudge Bars are a deliciously rich treat that everyone will love. Their creamy texture combined with bursts of fruity flavor makes them an instant favorite. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or toppings!