Valentines Treats Chocolate Marshmallow Squares

Name: Valentines Treats Chocolate Marshmallow Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups marshmallows (mini or regular); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons butter

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I always look forward to Valentines Day, and this year, I wanted to create something extra special. These Chocolate Marshmallow Squares are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious! Combining rich chocolate with gooey marshmallows and a crunchy base, they make the perfect treat for sharing with loved ones. I've experimented with different proportions and textures to achieve the ideal balance, and I can’t wait to share my tips with you. Trust me, these treats will become a beloved tradition in your household.

Created by

Etta Langton

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:17:34.548Z

When I first created these Chocolate Marshmallow Squares, I wanted to bring together a sense of nostalgia with a modern twist. I remembered the childhood joy of biting into a marshmallow-coated treat and knew I had to recreate that experience. After numerous attempts, I found that adding a touch of vanilla to the chocolate enhances the flavor immensely!

One of my favorite tips is to let the chocolate set slightly before adding the marshmallows. It makes for a beautiful contrast between the layers and ensures that the marshmallows don’t sink too deep. These squares have become a staple during celebrations, and I hope they bring you as much joy as they bring me.

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Decadent chocolate that satisfies every sweet tooth
Soft and fluffy marshmallow layer for a delightful texture
Great for sharing with loved ones or enjoying alone!

      

The Essential Role of Each Ingredient

Understanding the components of these Chocolate Marshmallow Squares can elevate your baking experience. The graham cracker crumbs form the base, providing a slightly sweet and crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft marshmallows. When mixed with cocoa powder, the crust becomes a rich foundation that's not only delicious but also visually appealing. Using unsweetened cocoa allows you to control the sweetness of the finished product, ensuring a balanced flavor.

The marshmallow layer is the star of the show, bringing a light and airy texture that complements the chocolate topping. Heavy cream is crucial here; it helps to melt the marshmallows smoothly, creating a silky layer that holds together beautifully. If you're looking to cut down on calories, you can experiment with lighter cream alternatives, though this may affect the texture slightly. Always aim for high-quality marshmallows for the best results, as their quality can dramatically impact flavor and mouthfeel.

Perfecting the Technique

When preparing the base, make sure to press the crust firmly into the greased baking pan. This prevents it from crumbling when cut into squares later. I recommend using a flat-bottomed measuring cup to achieve a compact and even layer. It's essential to bake the crust in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes; this step enhances the flavor and improves the texture by creating a firmer base that holds its shape well during slicing.

For the chocolate topping, melting the chocolate chips and butter together on low heat is crucial; this prevents burning and ensures a glossy finish. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and shiny, which indicates that it’s ready to be poured over the marshmallow layer. If you don’t have semi-sweet chocolate chips, you can substitute with dark chocolate for a richer taste or even milk chocolate for a sweeter result. Just be aware that the overall sweetness of the squares will be affected.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth preparation process!

For the Base

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup melted butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Marshmallow Layer

2 cups marshmallows (mini or regular)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Topping

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons butter

Once you've gathered all the ingredients, you're ready to start making these delightful treats!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for delightful and delicious Chocolate Marshmallow Squares!

Prepare the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased square baking pan to form an even layer.

Make the Marshmallow Layer

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and marshmallows. Stir continuously until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Pour this over the base layer and spread evenly.

Prepare the Chocolate Topping

In another saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and butter together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Once melted, pour over the marshmallow layer and spread evenly. Let the squares cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker setting.

Cut and Serve

Once set, remove from the pan and cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious Valentine's Day treat!

These steps are easy to follow and will yield delicious results every time. Don’t forget to share with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate topping or a sprinkle of crushed nuts for crunch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Marshmallow Squares can be prepared in advance, making them a great option for parties or spontaneous gatherings. Once set, store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating to extend their freshness to about a week. Just be aware that refrigeration can slightly alter the texture of the marshmallow layer, giving it a firmer bite.

For an enticing presentation, consider drizzling some additional melted chocolate or even sprinkles on top before serving. You can also layer some fresh berries or a sprinkle of sea salt just before cutting them into squares to add a vibrant twist. These ideas not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a delightful contrast in flavor!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your marshmallow layer isn't setting properly, it could be due to the marshmallows not being melted thoroughly. Ensure that the cream is heated just enough to begin simmering, and keep stirring until you achieve a completely smooth mixture. If it’s too runny post-melting, you can try adding a bit more marshmallows or let it cool slightly before spreading it over the base to help it thicken.

Another common challenge is achieving the right balance in the chocolate topping. If the chocolate mixture seizes and becomes grainy, it likely overheated. If this happens, you can add a bit more butter to the mixture off the heat, stirring well until it smooths out. Keep an eye on it to maintain that luscious, glossy consistency that will impress everyone when serving these delightful squares.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can experiment with dark or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

Store the squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! These squares can be made a day in advance, making them perfect for parties and gatherings.

→ Is there a way to make these squares healthier?

You can substitute a portion of the graham cracker crumbs with whole wheat flour and use sugar alternatives in the marshmallow layer.