When the holidays roll around, nothing brings joy to both kids and adults quite like a sweet, crunchy treat. Holiday Avalanche Squares are exactly that: a decadent combination of melty chocolate, peanut butter, marshmallows, and crispy cereal that comes together to create a deliciously festive dessert. These squares are ideal for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or simply a treat to enjoy while sipping hot cocoa by the fire.

The magic of these bars lies in the textures and flavors. White chocolate provides creamy sweetness, while peanut butter adds a nutty depth. Rice Krispies cereal gives a satisfying crunch, and mini marshmallows lend a soft, gooey element that makes every bite comforting. Milk chocolate chips sprinkled on top add a touch of richness and color contrast, completing the “avalanche” effect that inspired the name.

This article will guide you through the preparation of Holiday Avalanche Squares, including ingredient explanations, step-by-step instructions, creative variations, serving suggestions, storage tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Ingredients Overview

Understanding the purpose of each ingredient ensures the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Chocolate

• 4 cups white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips

White chocolate forms the creamy base for the bars, while milk chocolate adds extra sweetness and visual contrast for a festive appearance.

Nut Butter

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

Peanut butter introduces a rich, nutty flavor and helps bind the cereal and marshmallows together. Its natural oils create a smooth, cohesive mixture that sets perfectly.

Cereal

• 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal

Rice Krispies provide a light, crispy texture that balances the soft marshmallows and creamy chocolate. They also make the bars fun and appealing to both kids and adults.

Marshmallows

• 3 cups mini marshmallows

Mini marshmallows add chewiness and a gooey element that enhances the “avalanche” effect of these festive bars. They also melt slightly when combined with the warm chocolate and peanut butter, creating a luscious texture.

Preparation Method

Follow these steps carefully to achieve perfectly gooey, crunchy, and festive squares.

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This ensures easy removal and clean edges.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the white chocolate chips and peanut butter. Stir continuously until smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat once fully combined.

Step 3: Mix in Marshmallows and Cereal

Quickly fold in the mini marshmallows and Rice Krispies cereal. Mix gently but thoroughly so that every piece of cereal is coated with the chocolate and peanut butter mixture. The marshmallows should distribute evenly without fully melting.

Step 4: Transfer to Pan

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press down gently with a spatula to create an even layer. Be careful not to press too hard, as this may flatten the marshmallows too much.

Step 5: Add Milk Chocolate Chips

Sprinkle the milk chocolate chips evenly over the top of the bars. For a slightly melted effect, you can place the pan in a preheated oven at 200°F (95°C) for 2–3 minutes, or let the residual heat from the chocolate melt them slightly.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for at least 1–2 hours, or until firm enough to cut cleanly. For faster results, refrigerate for 30–45 minutes.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper edges and transfer to a cutting board. Slice into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Serve as a festive dessert or snack.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are highly versatile and can be served in various ways:

Holiday Parties

Serve on a festive platter alongside cookies and other treats for a colorful holiday spread.

Gift Giving

Wrap squares individually in decorative cellophane or parchment for a homemade holiday gift.

Snack Time

Perfect for after-school snacks or cozy evenings at home with a cup of hot chocolate.

Dessert Platter

Pair with fresh berries or whipped cream for a more elaborate dessert presentation.

Variations and Enhancements

Customize Holiday Avalanche Squares to match your taste or occasion:

Chocolate Variety

Use dark chocolate chips or a mix of milk and white chocolate for a more decadent flavor.

Nut Options

Substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different nutty profile.

Add-ins

Incorporate festive sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or toasted coconut for seasonal flair.

Marshmallow Options

Use jumbo marshmallows chopped into smaller pieces or flavored marshmallows for a unique twist.

Cereal Alternatives

Swap Rice Krispies for other crispy cereals like Cocoa Krispies, Corn Flakes, or Cheerios for added variety.

Nutritional Benefits

While indulgent, these bars offer some positive elements:

Protein and Healthy Fats

Peanut butter provides protein and healthy fats that increase satiety.

Energy Boost

The combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and cereal delivers quick energy, perfect for active children or a festive pick-me-up.

Portion Control

Slicing the bars into small squares allows for easy portion control while still enjoying the flavors.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Room Temperature

Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Refrigeration

Refrigerate for up to 7 days if you prefer a firmer texture. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

Freezing

Wrap individual bars in parchment and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Make-Ahead

The mixture can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated, then pressed into the pan and topped with chocolate chips just before serving.

Conclusion

Holiday Avalanche Squares are a festive, fun, and indulgent treat that combines creamy chocolate, nutty peanut butter, gooey marshmallows, and crispy cereal. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing flavor make them perfect for holiday gatherings, family treats, or special occasions. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars deliver a sweet, satisfying dessert that will quickly become a favorite.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes. Ensure the Rice Krispies cereal you use is gluten-free and check that other ingredients do not contain gluten.

2. Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely. Mix and match white, milk, dark, or even semi-sweet chocolate chips for different flavors.

3. Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

Yes. Chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or raisins can be added for extra texture and flavor.

4. How do I prevent marshmallows from melting completely?

Fold them in gently after the chocolate and peanut butter mixture is melted. This ensures they retain some structure and create gooey pockets rather than dissolving completely.

5. Can I prepare the bars ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the mixture and press it into the pan a day ahead. Top with chocolate chips and cool before serving.

6. Can I make mini bars?

Yes. Use a smaller pan or mini muffin tins to make bite-sized bars for easier portioning and serving at parties.