Holiday Marshmallow Bites Recipe

If you are searching for a delightfully festive treat that’s both squishy and sweet, look no further than these enchanting Holiday Marshmallow Bites. Perfectly blending rich chocolate, toasted coconut, and refreshing peppermint, this recipe is a poppable party favorite that can also turn an ordinary cup of hot cocoa into a luxurious holiday experience. These little bites capture the spirit of the season in every melt-in-your-mouth morsel, making them an absolute must-have at any festive gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Holiday Marshmallow Bites is a breeze because each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of texture and flavor. From the luscious chocolates to the aromatic extracts and crunchy toppings, every component makes this treat truly unforgettable.

• 7 ounces sweetened shredded coconut: Toasting this adds a nutty flavor and satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the marshmallow softness.
• 8 ounces Baker’s semi-sweet chocolate: Provides a rich, deep cocoa backdrop that balances the sweetness elegantly.
• 8 ounces Baker’s white chocolate: Brings a creamy, smooth sweetness that pairs wonderfully with peppermint.
• 4 tablespoons coconut oil (divided): Helps the chocolates melt smoothly and creates a lovely sheen when coating the marshmallows.
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract: Adds an extra layer of tropical aroma that complements the toasted coconut topping.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Delivers a refreshing, festive burst of flavor that brightens the white chocolate coating spectacularly.
• 24 ounces Jet-Puffed Marshmallows: The soft, pillowy star of the show that absorbs the rich chocolates perfectly.
• ½ cup peppermint candies, crushed: Adds a festive crunch and colorful specks that finish these bites with holiday cheer.

How to Make Holiday Marshmallow Bites

Step 1: Toast the Coconut

Start by spreading the shredded coconut evenly on a baking sheet and placing it in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven. Keep a close eye—about 5 minutes—to ensure it turns a beautiful golden brown without burning. This toasty coconut will provide a fragrant and crunchy topping for half of your marshmallow bites and is key to elevating their flavor.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolates

Set up two double boilers—one for the semi-sweet chocolate and one for the white chocolate—each combined with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Use medium heat to melt the chocolates slowly, stirring occasionally until they reach a silky, smooth consistency. This method protects the chocolate from burning and keeps it luscious for dipping.

Step 3: Add Extracts to Chocolates

Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir coconut extract into the semi-sweet chocolate, then blend peppermint extract into the white chocolate. These extracts infuse your Holiday Marshmallow Bites with signature holiday flavors, creating a delightful contrast between the two batches.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will make it super easy to transfer the finished bites to the fridge or freezer and ensures they don’t stick or lose their perfect shape.

Step 5: Dip and Top Marshmallows

Take one bag of marshmallows and dip each piece into the semi-sweet chocolate, then sprinkle generously with the toasted coconut. Place each coated marshmallow on the parchment-lined sheet with the chocolate and coconut side facing upward. Repeat this process with the second bag, dipping each marshmallow in white chocolate and topping with crushed peppermint candies. This dual coating makes your Holiday Marshmallow Bites irresistibly festive and diverse in flavor and texture.

Step 6: Chill Until Set

Transfer the baking sheets to the fridge or freezer until the chocolate hardens completely, usually about 15 minutes. This step helps lock in that glossy finish and ensures the bites are firm yet chewy when you enjoy them.

How to Serve Holiday Marshmallow Bites

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch when serving your Holiday Marshmallow Bites, consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or edible glitter. Fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of crushed candy canes around the serving plate further enhance the festive look and elevate the peppermint notes deliciously.

Side Dishes

These marshmallow treats pair beautifully with warm beverages like hot cocoa, spiced cider, or a creamy eggnog latte. Their sweetness and texture balance the warmth and spice, creating a soothing and indulgent holiday-inspired combination your guests will adore.

Creative Ways to Present

For a whimsical presentation, serve your Holiday Marshmallow Bites on a decorative platter topped with pine sprigs or cranberries. Alternatively, thread a few onto festive skewers to create edible holiday kabobs, perfect for a fun party centerpiece. These ideas make serving fun and can wow your guests visually and taste-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Holiday Marshmallow Bites fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their chewy centers and crisp chocolate coatings for up to one week, so you can savor the holiday magic a little longer.

Freezing

If you want to prepare these bites well in advance, they freeze wonderfully. Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray to freeze initially, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container. Frozen Holiday Marshmallow Bites keep their texture and flavor for up to a month, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.

Reheating

To enjoy the best texture after freezing, allow the bites to thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. They don’t require heating; just bring them to room temperature before serving for that perfectly soft and chocolatey experience.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can substitute chocolate chips, but keep in mind their melting properties are slightly different due to added stabilizers. Melt slowly and stir frequently to avoid graininess and ensure a smooth coating for your Holiday Marshmallow Bites.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

If peppermint extract isn’t on hand, you can use vanilla extract as a substitute, though the bites will lose some of their signature minty freshness. Alternatively, a small amount of crushed peppermint candy mixed into the white chocolate can help replicate that cool flavor.

Can I make these without coconut oil?

Coconut oil helps the chocolate maintain a glossy finish and smooth texture but is not absolutely essential. If you omit it, your chocolate may firm up more firmly and be less shiny, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Is there a way to make these bites nut-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally nut-free as long as you use brands of chocolate, coconut, and marshmallows made in nut-free facilities. Just double-check ingredient labels to ensure there is no cross-contamination.

How long do the Holiday Marshmallow Bites last?

Properly stored in an airtight container in the fridge, these treats maintain their best texture for up to a week. Beyond that, they may lose some freshness but generally remain safe to eat for a few days more.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the scoop on making these scrumptious Holiday Marshmallow Bites, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get dipping! Their perfect blend of chocolate, peppermint, and coconut makes for a cozy and charming addition to your holiday festivities. Once you try them, these bites are sure to become a beloved tradition that brings smiles and sweet memories year after year.