Holiday Marshmallow Bites Recipe

Welcome to a festive treat that’s sure to steal the show at your next celebration: the wonderfully squishy, sweet, and scrumptious Holiday Marshmallow Bites! These delightful morsels offer a perfect balance of rich chocolate, crunchy toasted coconut, and refreshing peppermint that will make everyone reach for just one more. Whether you’re popping them right off the tray or adding a magical touch to your holiday hot cocoa, Holiday Marshmallow Bites bring joy in every bite, celebrating all the tastes and textures that make the season so special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in crafting these irresistible Holiday Marshmallow Bites. From the creamy chocolate to the crunchy coconut and bright peppermint, they blend together for an unforgettable flavor and texture experience.

• 7 ounces sweetened shredded coconut: Toasting this adds a nutty crunch and golden color that complements the marshmallows beautifully.
• 8 ounces Baker’s semi-sweet chocolate (2 bars): Provides a rich, deep cocoa flavor that balances the sweetness.
• 8 ounces Baker’s white chocolate (2 bars): Adds a creamy sweetness and perfect pairing for peppermint.
• 4 tablespoons coconut oil (divided): Helps melt the chocolate smoothly and gives a delicate coconut undertone.
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract: Enhances the toasted coconut’s flavor with an extra tropical note.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Delivers that classic, refreshing holiday freshness.
• 24 ounces Jet-Puffed Marshmallows (2 bags): The star of the show, soft and chewy for the perfect bite.
• ½ cup peppermint candies crushed (or candy canes): Adds festive color, an icy crunch, and festive flavor to the white chocolate bites.

How to Make Holiday Marshmallow Bites

Step 1: Toast the Coconut

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet and toast it until it turns a beautiful golden brown, about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it because coconut can quickly go from toasty to burnt. Once done, transfer the coconut to a bowl and let it cool completely. This step creates a wonderful texture and nutty flavor contrast with the chocolate and marshmallows.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolates

Next up, prepare two double boilers — one for the semi-sweet chocolate and one for the white chocolate. Into each, add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to help melt the chocolate to a silky smooth consistency. Once melted, reduce the heat to medium-low to keep the chocolate from seizing. Stir the coconut extract into the semi-sweet chocolate and the peppermint extract into the white chocolate. This infusion packs each chocolate dip with flavor, so don’t skip it!

Step 3: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper — you’ll want one for the semi-sweet coconut-coated marshmallows and one for the white chocolate peppermint-coated marshmallows. This makes cleanup a snap and keeps the bites from sticking.

Step 4: Dip and Decorate

Now for the fun part! Dip each marshmallow into the melted semi-sweet chocolate, swirl to coat, then immediately sprinkle with toasted coconut. Place it on one baking sheet with the chocolatey, coconut side facing up. Repeat until you’ve coated one whole bag of marshmallows. For the second bag, dip marshmallows into the white chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies before setting them on the other baking sheet. This double-dipping technique not only looks festive but also gives guests two wonderful flavor options to enjoy!

Step 5: Chill and Set

Once all your marshmallows are dipped, pop the trays into the fridge or freezer until the chocolate hardens completely. This chilling step locks in the crunchy coating and seals in the flavor, ensuring your Holiday Marshmallow Bites hold their shape and look as good as they taste.

How to Serve Holiday Marshmallow Bites

Garnishes

Presentation is everything, and garnishes take Holiday Marshmallow Bites from delightful to downright dazzling. Try adding a dusting of edible glitter or some extra crushed peppermint sprinkled on top just before serving. Fresh mint sprigs or small candy canes alongside your bite-sized treats also create a vibrant holiday display that’s hard for anyone to resist.

Side Dishes

Pairing your Holiday Marshmallow Bites with warm beverages like rich hot cocoa, spiced coffee, or creamy eggnog elevates the festive mood and complements the sweet and minty flavors perfectly. They also make a wonderful contrast when served next to salted nuts or caramel popcorn, offering a variety of textures and tastes for your guests to enjoy.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel free to get creative when presenting these festive treats. Arrange the Holiday Marshmallow Bites on a tiered dessert stand for an elegant holiday centerpiece or place them in colorful mini cupcake liners for individual servings. For a charming gift idea, package them in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon or tuck a few into a festive jar for a thoughtful homemade gift that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Holiday Marshmallow Bites (and you probably will!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, they stay fresh and delicious for up to one week, making them perfect for snacking throughout the holidays without losing any of their charm.

Freezing

Want to prepare these sweet treats in advance? Holiday Marshmallow Bites freeze wonderfully. Lay them flat in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to one month. When you’re ready, just transfer them to the fridge to thaw gradually before serving.

Reheating

While these bites are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer a slightly softer chocolate coating, allow them to come to room temperature naturally. Avoid microwaving, as the marshmallows can melt and lose their delightful texture. Patience is key to preserving that perfect poppable bite!

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate instead of Baker’s chocolate?

Absolutely! You can substitute with any good-quality semi-sweet and white chocolate bars or chips. Just make sure they melt smoothly for the best coating consistency.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

No problem! Vanilla extract can be used as a milder flavor or you can add a small amount of crushed peppermint candies directly into the white chocolate for that minty touch.

Is it necessary to use coconut oil?

The coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly and adds a subtle coconut flavor, but you can substitute with vegetable oil or omit it—just keep an eye on the texture to avoid thick, clumpy chocolate.

Can I make these bites without toasted coconut or peppermint candies?

Yes! The toasted coconut and peppermint candies add texture and flavor, but you can get creative with sprinkles, nuts, or crushed cookies if you prefer other toppings.

How long do Holiday Marshmallow Bites last?

Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, they stay fresh for up to one week, and if frozen, up to one month. Always keep them chilled for the best taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about making and sharing these Holiday Marshmallow Bites that goes beyond their delicious flavors. They bring warmth, sweetness, and festive spirit to every gathering, making each moment a little brighter. I hope you dive in and enjoy every squishy, chocolatey bite — trust me, they’ll quickly become a beloved holiday tradition in your home!