Valentines Treats Chocolate Marshmallow Squares

Name: Valentines Treats Chocolate Marshmallow Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 1/4 cup water; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large egg whites; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips; Sprinkles or edible glitter

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I absolutely love making these Valentines Treats Chocolate Marshmallow Squares! They’re easy to whip up and always a hit during the holiday season. The combination of rich chocolate and fluffy marshmallow creates a sweet treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and loved ones. Plus, the vibrant colors make them visually appealing, adding a lovely touch to any Valentine’s celebration. I often find myself sneaking a square or two before they even make it to the party platter!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:29:34.746Z

When I first made these chocolate marshmallow squares, I was amazed at how quickly they came together. The real trick lies in the perfect balance of chocolate and marshmallow – too much of either can throw off the texture! I also recommend letting them chill before cutting to get those clean edges.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different toppings, but I always come back to the classic drizzle of chocolate for that extra indulgence. These squares are not only delicious but also make for a delightful homemade gift that anyone will cherish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate flavor paired with fluffy marshmallow
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones
Visually stunning with a customizable look

      

Creating the Perfect Marshmallow Layer

The marshmallow layer is the heart of these squares, providing a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate on top. When cooking the sugar mixture, it’s crucial to monitor the temperature closely with a candy thermometer. If you exceed 240°F, the marshmallow may become too firm, which can affect the texture of your bars. Aim for a glossy, slightly thick syrup consistency before incorporating it into the whipped egg whites.

Whipping the egg whites to soft peaks is another key step for achieving that fluffy marshmallow texture. This stage means the egg whites should hold a shape when you lift the beaters out, but not be fully stiff. If you accidentally overbeat them, the marshmallow will be tougher and not have that ideal fluffy quality. If that happens, gently fold in additional egg whites until you achieve the desired consistency.

Melting Chocolate Like a Pro

For the chocolate layer, using semi-sweet chocolate chips ensures a rich, satisfying sweetness that balances well with the fluffy marshmallow. When melting chocolate, patience is key. Heat in 30-second intervals and stir vigorously to prevent burning. If you notice the chocolate is seizing or becoming grainy, adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil can help restore the texture to a smooth, glossy finish.

If you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, you can substitute dark chocolate chips or even a mixture of milk and dark chocolate. This will give your squares a more complex taste profile without sacrificing the sweetness. Just keep an eye on the melting times as different chocolates may have varying melting points.

Troubleshooting Tips and Storage

If your chocolate layer seems to separate or does not adhere well to the marshmallow, it may be due to the marshmallow layer still being slightly warm or wet when you pour on the chocolate. Always ensure the marshmallow has completely set and cooled to room temperature before adding the chocolate. If you want to speed things up, refrigerating it for about 15-20 minutes can do the trick.

To store these bars, cut them into squares and keep them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap each square in wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can defrost in the refrigerator overnight before serving, but I often enjoy them straight from the freezer for a fudgy, cool treat!

Ingredients

For the Marshmallow Layer

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup water
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Layer

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

For Garnish

1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Sprinkles or edible glitter

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth workflow.

Instructions

Prepare the Marshmallow Layer

In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it boil without stirring until it reaches 240°F (soft ball stage).

Whip the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until they reach soft peaks. Gradually pour the hot sugar mixture into the egg whites while continuously beating, then add the vanilla extract and beat until thick and fluffy.

Pour the Marshmallow Layer

Spread the marshmallow mixture into a greased 8x8 inch pan, smoothing the top as much as possible. Let it set for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Chocolate Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and nuts if using.

Combine Layers

Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the set marshmallow layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Top with mini chocolate chips and sprinkles.

Set and Cut

Allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker results. Once set, cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy your homemade treat with a cup of tea or coffee!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor twist, consider mixing in some peppermint extract to the marshmallow layer for a festive touch.

Garnishing for a Festive Touch

Adding sprinkles or edible glitter not only enhances the visual appeal of your chocolate marshmallow squares but can also reflect your personal style or the theme of your occasion. Consider using heart-shaped sprinkles for Valentine’s Day for an even more festive look. This final touch transforms your treats from simple to stunning, making them a highlight of any dessert table.

If you’re looking for a unique twist, you can also drizzle some white chocolate over the cooled chocolate layer before cutting. Not only does this create a beautiful contrast, but it introduces a creamy flavor that complements the rich chocolate and fluffy marshmallow perfectly.

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to make a larger batch for a big gathering, this recipe can easily be scaled up. Simply double the ingredients and use a 9x13-inch pan instead of the 8x8-inch pan. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking times slightly for both the marshmallow and chocolate layers. To ensure even cooking, make sure to spread the mixtures evenly in the pan.

For smaller servings, you can cut the squares into smaller pieces. This not only makes them adorable bite-sized treats but also allows for easy sharing. Just be cautious while cutting; using a sharp knife can help you achieve clean edges for a more polished look.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate or white chocolate can be used for variety.

→ How long do these squares last?

They can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

→ Is it possible to make these marshmallow squares vegan?

Yes, you can use aquafaba instead of egg whites and dairy-free chocolate.

→ What can I substitute for corn syrup?

You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute, though it may change the sweetness slightly.