M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars: A Sweet and Colorful Treat

Treat yourself to a guilt-free dessert that’s as fun as it is delicious! These M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without derailing your goals. Light, fluffy marshmallows are paired with crunchy, colorful M&M’s in a soft, buttery base that’s sure to please both kids and adults. Whether for a party, holiday, or just because, these bars are a dreamy, crowd-pleasing treat!

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 cup quick oats
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup light butter or butter substitute
• 1/4 cup brown sugar substitute (e.g., Truvia, Swerve Brown)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
• 1/4 cup mini M&M’s (or sugar-free chocolate candies for fewer points)
• 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Instructions

Prepare the Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine quick oats, applesauce, light butter, brown sugar substitute, and vanilla extract. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove and let cool.

Create the Topping

1. Spread the mini marshmallows evenly over the cooled oat base.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine semi-sweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.
3. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the marshmallows, ensuring an even coating.

Add the M&M’s

1. Sprinkle the mini M&M’s over the melted chocolate while it’s still warm so they stick.
2. Let the bars set at room temperature or refrigerate for faster cooling.

Slice and Serve

1. Once fully set, cut into 12 equal bars. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container.

Nutritional Information

(Per Bar)

• Calories: ~110
• Protein: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• WW Points: ~3 (adjust based on specific brands)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Colorful and Fun: Mini M&M’s make this dessert visually appealing and perfect for kids or special occasions.
2. Easy to Make: Minimal prep and no complicated techniques make this a beginner-friendly recipe.
3. Lightened Up: Using applesauce and a sugar substitute keeps the points low without compromising flavor.
4. Customizable: Swap out M&M’s for sugar-free candies or dark chocolate chips for a different twist.

Tips for Success

• Use Parchment Paper: This makes it easier to remove the bars from the pan and ensures clean slicing.
• Keep an Eye on the Marshmallows: They can melt too much if the base is too warm. Allow the oat layer to cool slightly before adding marshmallows.
• Make it Seasonal: Use holiday-themed M&M’s or sprinkles to adapt this recipe for different celebrations.

Serving Suggestions

• Dessert Platter: Include these bars on a dessert tray alongside other lightened-up treats.
• Party Favorites: Serve at birthday parties or gatherings for a colorful, portion-controlled option.
• On-the-Go Snack: Pack them in lunchboxes or as a quick treat for road trips.

These M&M’s Marshmallow Dream Bars are the ultimate combination of fun, flavor, and mindful indulgence. With their chewy base, gooey marshmallow layer, and bursts of chocolatey goodness, these bars are a must-try for anyone craving a lightened-up version of a classic dessert. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying one for yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your dessert rotation!