Cherry Brownie Dream Bars 🍒
Indulge in these delightful Cherry Brownie Dream Bars, a layered treat featuring a rich brownie base, a fluffy marshmallow layer, sweet maraschino cherries, and a crunchy chocolate peanut butter cereal topping. Perfect for any occasion!
Equipment
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish
- Microwave-safe Bowl
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 18 ounces brownie mix (plus ingredients like eggs, oil, water as per package directions; consider a whole-grain or lower-sugar option for a healthier twist)
Marshmallow Layer
- 7 ounces marshmallow creme (a light version works great!)
Cherry Layer
- 10 ounces maraschino cherries thoroughly drained
Peanut Butter Cereal Topping
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate for a richer, healthier flavor)
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural peanut butter is a good choice!)
- 3 cups crispy rice cereal
Optional Garnish
- Reddi-wip or fresh whipped cream and extra maraschino cherries for topping (optional, for a beautiful finish)
Instructions
- Prep Your Cherries: Start by draining your maraschino cherries really well. Pat them super dry with a paper towel, then cut each cherry in half and set them aside.
- Bake the Brownies: Prepare your chosen brownie mix according to the package instructions for a 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake as directed, then let the brownies cool completely. For a perfect foundation, chill them in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
- Marshmallow Layer: Once your brownies are nice and cold, spread the marshmallow creme evenly over the top. Pop the pan back into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let the marshmallow set a bit.
- Add Cherries: Carefully arrange your halved cherries over the chilled marshmallow layer.
- Melt the Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Heat this mixture in 30-second bursts, stirring thoroughly after each one, until it's smooth and fully melted.
- Mix in Cereal: Stir the crispy rice cereal into the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture until every piece is completely coated.
- Spread the Crunch: Gently spread this delicious crispy topping over the cherries, making sure to cover them entirely.
- Chill and Enjoy: Return the bars to the refrigerator for at least one more hour to allow them to firm up completely before slicing into individual bars. Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Optional Garnish: For an extra special touch, serve each bar with a dollop of Reddi-wip or fresh whipped cream and a whole maraschino cherry on top!
Notes
Feel free to customize with your favorite brownie mix or chocolate type for a personalized touch.
Nutrition Information (per 1/36 serving):
Calories: 195
Total Carbs: 27g
Net Carbs: 26g
Fats: 9g
Protein: 3g
Calories: 195
Total Carbs: 27g
Net Carbs: 26g
Fats: 9g
Protein: 3g
