Valentines Treats Chocolate Marshmallow Squares

Name: Valentines Treats Chocolate Marshmallow Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g butter; 2 cups mini marshmallows; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup puffed rice cereal

Highlighted under: Special Food

I love making these Valentine's Treats Chocolate Marshmallow Squares every year because they are a delightful mix of flavors and textures that just scream celebration. The rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with the fluffy marshmallow, making it an indulgent treat that's perfect for sharing. Each square is a little slice of happiness, and the process is surprisingly simple and rewarding. Whether I'm packing them in a box for a loved one or setting them out on a party platter, these squares are always a hit and a sweet reminder of the joy of the season.

Created by

Yasmin Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-06T12:17:34.269Z

When making these chocolate marshmallow squares, I found that using high-quality chocolate made all the difference. It adds a depth of flavor that really elevates the treat. I also recommend letting the squares set in the fridge for a while after cutting them; this ensures they hold together nicely and don’t become a gooey mess when served.

Additionally, I experimented with adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before serving, which beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the marshmallow and chocolate. Just trust me—the little twist transforms these squares from ordinary to extraordinary!

        Why You'll Love These Squares
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fluffy marshmallow
Simple to make with just a few ingredients
Perfect for gift-giving or as a delightful party treat

      

The Importance of Quality Chocolate

The chocolate you choose is crucial for achieving the rich flavor in these squares. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. It provides a deeper, more complex flavor profile that balances the sweetness of the marshmallows and sugar. Additionally, avoid baking chocolate as it often contains less cocoa and more fillers, which can compromise the final taste.

When melting chocolate, using a double boiler instead of a direct flame is ideal to prevent scorching. If you don’t have one, you can create a makeshift double boiler by placing a heat-proof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. This method allows for gentle heat, ensuring your chocolate melts smoothly without any lumps.

Always stir the chocolate continuously while melting to promote even heating and prevent it from seizing. If your chocolate does end up becoming too thick or grainy, try adding a small amount of vegetable oil or butter to bring back its glossy consistency.

Texture and Serving Suggestions

The combination of fluffy marshmallows and crispy puffed rice gives these squares their delightful texture. It's essential to mix the marshmallows and cereal gently so that the marshmallows retain some of their airiness. Overmixing could lead to a dense mixture, which is not what you want. Aim for a sticky yet light mixture that will hold its shape once set.

Once you've chilled the squares and cut them into pieces, consider dusting them with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an elegant finish. This not only enhances their appearance but also adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the chocolate. I also love to package them in clear bags tied with a ribbon for a charming gift idea.

These chocolate marshmallow squares can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled. If you prefer a colder treat, serve them directly from the refrigerator. They also hold up well in a decorative tin or container for several days, making them perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a sweet snack throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious squares:

Ingredients

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g butter
2 cups mini marshmallows
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup puffed rice cereal

Make sure everything is measured and ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious chocolate marshmallow squares:

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped dark chocolate and butter. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the mini marshmallows, sugar, and vanilla extract. Pour the melted chocolate over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated.

Add Rice Cereal

Gently fold in the puffed rice cereal until fully incorporated. The mixture should be sticky but well combined.

Press into Pan

Line a square baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into the pan using a spatula or your hands.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the squares to set. Once firm, lift them out of the pan and cut into squares.

Enjoy these delicious squares with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a handful of crushed nuts or a drizzle of caramel over the top before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

These chocolate marshmallow squares can be prepared in advance, making them a fantastic option for parties or festive occasions. You can store prepared squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Additionally, if you want to enjoy them at their best, consider slicing them just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.

If you plan to make them well in advance, you can freeze the uncut squares. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This method helps preserve their delightful flavor and texture.

To ensure the best quality post-freezing, avoid topping the squares with any garnishes before freezing, as these could affect the texture once thawed. Once they're thawed, feel free to add any desired finishing touches, such as drizzled chocolate or sprinkles.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate mixture becomes too thick to work with during preparation, it might be due to overheating the chocolate. Always melt chocolate gently to maintain its fluidity. If necessary, reheat gently with a hint of butter or cream until it loosens up. This will help you achieve the right consistency for mixing in the marshmallows and cereal.

If the marshmallow squares aren't setting properly, it could be due to improper ratio of ingredients or insufficient refrigeration time. Ensure that the mixture is tightly packed into the pan, as this helps it hold its form when chilled. If they remain too soft, consider chilling them for an additional 10-15 minutes.

In case the squares are too sticky to cut once set, try running a sharp knife under hot water before slicing. This simple technique can prevent the chocolate from dragging and ensures clean, even cuts, resulting in beautifully presented squares.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but keep in mind it will make the squares sweeter.

→ How long will these squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these marshmallow squares?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months for a quick treat later.

→ What can I substitute for puffed rice cereal?

You can use crispy rice or even crushed graham crackers as a substitute.