Easy Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars Ready in 30 Minutes

Did You Know 72% of Home Bakers Avoid Fudge Because They Think It’s Too Difficult?

If you’ve ever shied away from making fudge because it seems finicky or time-consuming, I have a secret to share: these Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars are here to change everything. With just a handful of pantry staples and no candy thermometer required, this recipe is the ultimate gateway to creamy, dreamy fudge perfection. And the best part? The chewy marshmallow swirls and tart cherry bursts make each bite a nostalgic trip to your favorite candy shop—without the fuss.

I’ll never forget the first time I made these bars for my grandmother’s birthday. She took one bite, closed her eyes, and whispered, “This tastes like happiness.” That’s the magic of combining rich chocolate fudge with fluffy marshmallow and bright cherries—it’s not just a dessert, it’s a moment. Whether you’re gifting them in pretty boxes (they stay fresh for days!) or sneaking midnight slices straight from the fridge, these bars have a way of turning ordinary days into little celebrations.

Why This Recipe Works (Even If You’ve Burned Fudge Before)

Traditional fudge recipes can be intimidating—stir constantly, watch the temperature, pray to the sugar gods. But this version? It’s practically foolproof. Here’s why:

• Sweetened condensed milk does the heavy lifting, ensuring the fudge sets up creamy instead of grainy
• Mini marshmallows melt into pillowy ribbons that stay soft for days
• Freeze-dried cherries add vibrant flavor without making the fudge soggy (unlike fresh fruit)
• The 10-minute active prep time means more enjoying, less stressing

Fun fact: The marshmallow layer isn’t just for texture—it creates a gorgeous marbled effect when you swirl it through the fudge. When I brought these to my book club last winter, three people asked if I’d taken a pastry class (spoiler: I absolutely had not). That’s the beauty of recipes that look fancy but are secretly simple—they make you feel like a kitchen wizard.

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Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars: A Sweet Symphony of Flavors

There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and tart cherries—especially when they come together in these dreamy Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a cozy weekend treat, or just because, these bars promise to be a showstopper. Let’s gather our ingredients and dive in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup unsalted butter – The foundation of our fudge layer. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for that perfect creamy texture.
• 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the fudge just right, balancing the tartness of the cherries.
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder – Opt for high-quality cocoa powder for a deep, chocolatey flavor.
• 4 large eggs – They’ll help bind everything together while keeping the fudge delightfully soft.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Just enough to give the bars structure without making them dense.
• 1/2 tsp salt – A pinch to balance the sweetness and elevate the chocolate.
• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows – These will melt slightly into the fudge, creating irresistible gooey pockets.
• 1 cup dried cherries – Their tangy sweetness cuts through the richness of the chocolate. If you prefer, you can use maraschino cherries (drained and chopped) for a juicier bite.
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – For an extra layer of melty goodness on top.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the paper to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Cream the Butter & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. This step is key for that smooth, velvety fudge texture, so don’t rush it!
3. Add the Cocoa & Eggs: Sift in the cocoa powder to avoid lumps, then mix until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, letting its warmth meld into the batter.
4. Fold in the Dry Ingredients: Gently mix in the flour and salt just until combined. Overmixing can make the bars tough, so a light hand is best here.
5. Layer the Goodness: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Now, sprinkle the mini marshmallows and dried cherries over the top, pressing them lightly into the batter. They’ll sink a bit as they bake, creating those lovely swirls of flavor.

At this point, your kitchen should already smell like a chocolate lover’s paradise. But trust me, the best is yet to come—once these bars bake and cool, they transform into something truly extraordinary. Stay tuned for the finishing touches and baking tips in the next part!

Conclusion

These Cherry Marshmallow Fudge Bars are the perfect blend of rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and pillowy marshmallows—a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat! Whether you’re whipping them up for a holiday gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, they’re sure to be a hit. The best part? They require no baking and come together in just a few simple steps.

So why not give this recipe a try? We’d love to hear how yours turn out—tag us on social media or leave a comment below with your thoughts! And if you’re craving more decadent desserts, check out our dessert recipes for more sweet inspiration.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used, but make sure to pit and chop them finely. Keep in mind that fresh cherries have a slightly tart flavor compared to maraschino cherries, so you may want to adjust the sweetness if needed.

How should I store these fudge bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’d like to keep them longer, they can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw them in the fridge before serving.

Can I substitute the marshmallows with something else?

If you’re not a fan of marshmallows, you can try mini marshmallow bits or even omit them entirely. For a different texture, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruit instead.

Why is my fudge not setting properly?

If your fudge isn’t setting, it may be due to insufficient chilling time or not heating the chocolate mixture enough. Make sure to let it cool completely in the fridge for at least 2 hours before cutting. If it’s still too soft, try reheating the mixture slightly longer next time.

Can I use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes! White chocolate will give these bars a sweeter, creamier flavor. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness of any additional mix-ins accordingly.