If you have a sweet tooth that craves a delightful combination of chewy, gooey, and crisp textures all in one bite, then you are going to adore the Mud Hen Bars (Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Meringue Bars) Recipe. This nostalgic treat brings together a buttery base, melted chocolate chips, fluffy mini marshmallows, and a light, caramelized meringue topping that simply melts in your mouth. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just indulging in a cozy night in, these bars are an irresistible crowd-pleaser that promises smiles and satisfied bellies with every square.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic in Mud Hen Bars (Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Meringue Bars) Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key part in creating the perfect balance between rich, sweet, and airy, transforming humble pantry staples into a show-stopping dessert.
- 1/4 cup shortening: Provides a tender crumb and helps bind the dough with a slight firmness.
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened): Adds rich flavor and moisture for a buttery base.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and promotes browning for that lovely golden color.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, aromatic essence.
- 1 whole egg + 2 eggs (separated): The whole egg and yolks enrich the dough while the whites create the fluffy meringue topping.
- 1 & 1/2 cups flour: The structural backbone, providing the perfect chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Lightens the dough ensuring it’s not too dense.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 1 cup mini marshmallows: Adds a soft, gooey texture that melts beautifully in the oven.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Brings a sweet, melty richness to each bite.
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed): Used in the meringue for a caramel-like sweetness and chewy texture.
How to Make Mud Hen Bars (Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Meringue Bars) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start things off by preheating your oven to 350°. Preparing your baking pan is just as important—give your 9×13 pan a light spray with nonstick spray to ensure your bars come out effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Make the Dough Base
In a large bowl or using your mixer, cream together the shortening, softened butter, granulated sugar, one whole egg, and two egg yolks (remember to set aside the whites for later). Add in the vanilla extract and beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is where the luscious richness begins to build.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Spread
Mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined—overmixing here can make the bars tough. When spreading the dough in your pan, wet your fingers lightly; this trick stops the sticky dough from clinging to your hands and smooths it out beautifully, creating the perfect base layer.
Step 4: Layer the Good Stuff
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips and mini marshmallows evenly over the dough. Watching those morsels peek out promises gooey, melty bites once baked—trust me, the anticipation is real!
Step 5: Whip Up the Meringue Topping
Using a clean, dry mixing bowl with your mixer’s whisk attachment, beat the two reserved egg whites on high until stiff peaks form—this usually takes about two minutes. Then, gently fold in the light brown sugar using a rubber spatula until it’s fully incorporated and smooth, forming a sweet, caramel-colored meringue.
Step 6: Top and Bake
Spread the meringue carefully over the marshmallows and chocolate chips. Don’t fret if it’s not perfectly smooth—rustic is charming here. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown. Around 30 minutes usually does the trick, but keep an eye on that gorgeous crust forming.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Once your Mud Hen Bars are golden and bubbling, patience is key—let them cool completely in the pan. Cutting too soon risks gooey messes, but once cooled, each bar cuts into a neat, chewy square that’s ready to devour.
How to Serve Mud Hen Bars (Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Meringue Bars) Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Mud Hen Bars, consider dusting them lightly with powdered sugar or a gentle drizzle of melted chocolate. A sprinkle of crushed nuts on top before baking adds delightful crunch and an earthy contrast to the sweetness.
Side Dishes
These bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Serve alongside a robust cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the richness and enhance the indulgent experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a whimsical touch, serve your Mud Hen Bars on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh berries or edible flowers. Cut bars into bite-sized pieces for parties or layer them in clear jars for a charming homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store leftover Mud Hen Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay moist and delicious for up to three days, maintaining that perfect chew and gooey top.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars for up to two months. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready, and they’ll taste just as wonderful as fresh.
Reheating
If you prefer warm bars, gently heat them in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300° for about 5 to 7 minutes. The chocolate chips will melt slightly, and the meringue will soften, bringing the flavors to life all over again.
FAQs
Can I substitute shortening with all butter in the Mud Hen Bars (Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Meringue Bars) Recipe?
Absolutely! Using all butter will give a richer flavor but might alter the texture slightly, making the base a bit softer. Many bakers prefer butter for its taste, so feel free to experiment.
Why do I need to save egg whites separately in this recipe?
The egg whites are essential for making the meringue topping. Whipping them to stiff peaks creates the light, fluffy layer that bakes to a beautiful golden crust atop your bars.
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
You can, but mini marshmallows melt more evenly and distribute better. If you use regular-sized marshmallows, consider chopping them into smaller pieces for consistent texture.
What happens if I overbake the Mud Hen Bars (Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Meringue Bars) Recipe?
Overbaking can dry out the bars and toughen both the base and the meringue topping. It’s best to keep an eye on the golden color and pull the bars out as soon as the meringue is browned and set.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend in the same quantity. Just ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
Making the Mud Hen Bars (Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Meringue Bars) Recipe at home is like inviting a warm hug from your oven—comforting, sweet, and irresistibly satisfying. These bars have a wonderful homey charm that turns any occasion into something special. So dust off your mixing bowls, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself—you deserve the joy these delightful bars bring.
