Cherry Christmas Magic Bars

Golden Christmas Magic Bars (The Cherry & Marshmallow Treat)

Introduction to Golden Christmas Bars

As the holiday season approaches, baking becomes a way to share love and warmth. You might recognize these stunning bars from some of our previous photos! After many requests asking about the “golden bars with red cherries,” we are thrilled to finally share this specific recipe. Unlike our classic cocoa-based bars, these Golden Christmas Magic Bars rely on a buttery graham crust, creamy sweetened condensed milk, and a festive topping of bright red cherries and marshmallows.

Note: Love chocolate? If you prefer a rich, dark cocoa base instead of this golden version, try our popular Chocolate Marshmallow Christmas Bars recipe!

These bars are often called “Magic Bars” because they are incredibly easy to assemble—no mixer required! The layers melt together in the oven to create a chewy, gooey, and crunchy masterpiece that looks as good as it tastes. Let’s dive into the recipe that everyone has been asking for!

Why You’ll Love These Cherry Christmas Bars

These bars are a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. The bright red candied cherries make them pop on any holiday cookie platter. You’ll love them because they are “dummy-proof”—you simply layer the ingredients and bake. The flavor profile is a mix of caramel-like sweetness from the condensed milk, the crunch of nuts, and the soft chew of marshmallows. They are the perfect “blondie” alternative to traditional brownies.

Ingredients for Golden Christmas Bars

To recreate that beautiful image you love, you’ll need specific ingredients that create the golden color and festive look. Here’s what you’ll need:

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• 1½ cups (150 g) graham cracker crumbs: This forms the sturdy, buttery foundation of the bar.
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted: Essential for binding the crust together.
• 1 can (14 oz / 397 g) sweetened condensed milk: The “liquid gold” that binds all the toppings and turns into a caramel-like layer. Do not use evaporated milk.
• 1 cup (170 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips: Provides a classic chocolate hit without overpowering the golden color.
• ½ cup (85 g) white chocolate chips: Adds to the creamy texture and keeps the bars looking bright and festive.
• 1 cup (150 g) candied red cherries (glacé cherries): The star of the show! Cut them in halves or quarters. They provide the signature look from the photo.
• 1 cup (50 g) mini marshmallows: For that gooey, puffy white contrast against the red cherries.
• ½ cup (60 g) chopped nuts (optional): Walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a necessary crunch to balance the sweetness.

How to Make Golden Christmas Bars

The beauty of this recipe is in the layering. No heavy mixing is involved, making it a fun activity to do with kids!

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides. This is crucial because the condensed milk gets very sticky, and the paper makes it easy to lift the bars out later.

Step 2: Create the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs look like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. You can use the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it down tight.

Step 3: Add the “Magic” Liquid
Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust. Do not mix it in! Just let it coat the crumb layer. This will act as the glue for all your delicious toppings.

Step 4: Layer the Toppings
Now, sprinkle the toppings over the condensed milk in this order: chopped nuts, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and white chocolate chips.

Step 5: The Festive Finish
Finally, scatter the mini marshmallows and the halved candied cherries on top. Press them down very gently with a fork just so they adhere to the sticky layers below. This ensures they show up beautifully in the final photo!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes. You are looking for the edges to turn a golden brown and the marshmallows to be toasted but not burnt. The center might still look a bit jiggly, but it will set as it cools.

Step 7: Cool Completely
Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack. Patience is key here. You must let these bars cool completely (at least 2 hours) before cutting. If you cut them while warm, they will fall apart. For cleaner cuts, you can chill them in the fridge for 30 minutes before slicing.

Tips for Success

• Parchment Paper is a Must: Unlike the cocoa bars, these are stickier due to the exposed condensed milk. Do not skip the lining!
• Don’t Overbake: The marshmallows can burn quickly. Keep an eye on them during the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Customize the Cherries: If you want extra color, you can use a mix of red and green candied cherries.
• Clean Cuts: Wipe your knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts to prevent the marshmallow from sticking to the blade.

Equipment Needed

• 9×13 inch Baking Pan: Metal or glass works fine.
• Parchment Paper: For easy removal and cleanup.
• Medium Bowl: For mixing the crust.
• Spatula: To scrape every drop of condensed milk.

Variations of Golden Christmas Bars

• Coconut Lovers: Add ½ cup of shredded sweetened coconut along with the nuts for a tropical “7-Layer Bar” twist.
• Butterscotch Twist: Swap the white chocolate chips for butterscotch chips for an even richer, golden flavor.
• Dried Fruit Option: If you don’t like candied cherries, dried cranberries (Craisins) make a tart and chewy substitute that still looks festive.
• Salty & Sweet: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top right after baking to cut through the sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• These bars are very rich, so cut them into small squares.
• Serve them on a white platter to make the red cherries pop.
• They pair perfectly with black coffee or unsweetened tea to balance the sugar.

FAQs about Golden Christmas Bars

Are these the same as the chocolate bars?
No! These are the “blonde” version. They use condensed milk and vanilla flavors as the base rather than cocoa powder. If you want the dark chocolate version, check the link in the introduction!

Can I use fresh cherries?
I wouldn’t recommend it. Fresh cherries have too much water and will make the bars soggy. Stick to candied (glacé) or dried cherries.

How do I store them?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just separate layers with wax paper.

Final Thoughts

We are so happy to clear up the confusion and share the recipe that matches those mouth-watering photos! These Golden Christmas Magic Bars are sure to become a holiday staple alongside their chocolate cousins. Whether you are Team Chocolate or Team Golden, we have you covered this season. Happy Baking!

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