Get ready to transform your holiday baking game with these irresistible Peeps Crumbly Christmas Bars that combine the nostalgic charm of marshmallow Peeps with a delightful oatmeal base! Imagine biting into a perfectly crumbly, golden-brown bar studded with colorful, gooey marshmallows that capture the pure joy of the holiday season. These bars are not just a dessert; they're a celebration of festive flavors that will have your family and friends begging for more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Peeps (variety of colors)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- Pour the melted butter into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until the mixture becomes a crumbly, moist dough that holds together when pressed.
- Press approximately two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even base layer. Use the back of a spoon or measuring cup to compact the mixture.
- Arrange the colorful Peeps marshmallows evenly across the oat base, covering the entire surface. Try to distribute different colored Peeps for a festive appearance.
- Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the Peeps, creating a crumbly topping that partially covers the marshmallows.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the Peeps are slightly melted and puffy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. The bars will set and become firmer as they cool.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Cut into 16 even squares using a sharp knife.
- For best texture and flavor, serve at room temperature. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Choose a variety of Peeps colors to make your bars look extra festive and fun.
- Make sure to press the base layer firmly to create a solid foundation for your bars.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.
- For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars.
- Use parchment paper overhang for easy removal and clean cutting.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain the perfect texture and freshness.
- For a more intense marshmallow flavor, try using seasonal Peeps flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 118kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 13mg
