If you’re craving a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that doesn’t require turning on the oven, these No Bake Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars are a sweet revelation. With just six ingredients and no baking time, this chewy, peanutty, gooey delight is perfect for parties, holidays, or an easy after-school snack. These bars blend rich butterscotch flavor with fluffy marshmallows, salty peanuts, and creamy peanut butter to create an irresistible treat in under 10 minutes.
Don’t miss our Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars if you’re into nostalgic, no-fuss dessert ideas!
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Why These No Bake Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars Are Everyone’s Favorite
What Makes This Recipe So Special?
This recipe is a vintage classic that has stood the test of time. It’s one of those treats your grandma probably made for bake sales or family picnics, and it still shines today thanks to its perfect combo of salty, sweet, and chewy. But what sets these bars apart is the texture—gooey marshmallows nestled in a buttery, butterscotch-peanut coating that sets firm enough to slice, but soft enough to melt in your mouth.
Perfect for Parties, Potlucks, or Sweet Cravings
These bars are a host’s dream. They travel well, store beautifully, and disappear fast. Whether you’re planning a tailgate, potluck, or just need a last-minute dessert for a crowd, they’re ready in minutes—no oven required. Even better, kids can help make them!
Looking for inspiration? Try our Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles for another easy party-ready sweet.
Nostalgic Flavors: Like a Payday Bar but Better
Think of this recipe as a homemade version of a Payday bar—but with marshmallows! The peanut and butterscotch combo gives it a distinctly old-school candy vibe. The marshmallows lighten up the richness, making them fun, fluffy, and dangerously addictive.
Discover great ideas like our Peach Bars if you love classic desserts with a modern twist.
Time-Saving and Kitchen-Friendly
No mixer. No baking. Just one saucepan and a spatula. That’s it. These bars are the go-to for anyone short on time but big on flavor. They’re the kind of recipe you’ll memorize after one batch because it’s that simple.
Check out our Ruler Rice Krispies Recipe if you want more clever, no-bake ideas that also double as back-to-school treats!
Ingredients Breakdown and Customization Ideas
Classic Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a quick look at the base ingredients that make these bars magic:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butterscotch chips | Sweet, rich flavor base | Avoid overheating—they burn fast |
| Peanut butter | Adds creaminess and richness | Creamy or crunchy works |
| Butter | Helps everything melt together smoothly | Use real unsalted butter |
| Mini marshmallows | Create gooey, pillowy texture | Rainbow or plain both work |
| Cereal | Adds crunch and volume | Cheerios or Rice Krispies are best |
| Peanuts | Salty crunch to balance sweetness | Use roasted & salted for best bite |
Don’t miss our Apple Cinnamon Blondies for another sweet treat that plays with texture like these bars.
Easy Ingredient Swaps & Dietary Tweaks
- Nut-free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter and use crunchy pretzels instead of peanuts.
- Vegan: Choose dairy-free chips, vegan butter, and Dandies mini marshmallows.
- Fun twist: Use rainbow marshmallows for a playful pop of color.
These swaps make it easy to adapt the bars to dietary needs or pantry limitations without losing the essence of the recipe.
How to Make No Bake Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars Step-by-Step
Tools and Setup You Need
You don’t need much to pull off this recipe:
- 9×13-inch pan
- Non-stick spray or parchment paper
- A deep saucepan
- Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
Pro tip: Line your pan with parchment for easy lifting and clean slicing.
Melting and Mixing: Getting That Smooth Base
- Add butter, peanut butter, and butterscotch chips to your saucepan.
- Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly to avoid scorching.
- Once melted and smooth, remove from heat.
If the chips seize or become grainy, the heat was too high—low and slow is the way to go.
Folding in the Magic: Marshmallows, Nuts, and More
- Gently fold in mini marshmallows, peanuts, and cereal while the mixture is still warm.
- Stir carefully so the marshmallows don’t completely melt—this keeps their soft texture.
- Spread the mix evenly into your prepared pan and let cool.
Place the pan in the fridge for quicker setting, but don’t cover it until it’s fully cooled.
Storage, Serving & Make-Ahead Tips
How to Store for Maximum Freshness
After your bars are fully set, you can store them in an airtight container:
- At room temperature: They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Keep them in a cool spot away from heat or sunlight.
- In the fridge: Great for hot climates or longer shelf life. They’ll last up to 10 days chilled, but will be firmer in texture.
- In the freezer: Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap tightly in parchment or wax paper, then seal in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for about 2 months.
Don’t miss our Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats for another easy, make-ahead recipe that stores beautifully.
Cutting Perfect Bars Without the Mess
Cutting these chewy bars can get sticky if you’re not careful. Here’s how to keep it clean and sharp:
- Let them cool fully before slicing.
- Use a sharp knife coated with non-stick spray or dipped in hot water.
- Wipe between cuts for neat squares.
Looking for more sweet slicing tips? Check out our Pumpkin S’mores Cookies that also benefit from smart slicing strategies.
Make-Ahead and Gift-Giving Ideas
These bars are a hit in treat boxes, bake sales, or mailed care packages (during cooler months). To prep ahead:
- Make and slice the bars, then freeze until you’re ready to package.
- Layer with parchment in decorative tins or boxes for gifting.
They’re great for the holidays, birthdays, or when you want to wow with minimal effort. Try pairing them with Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread in your next dessert tray.
Variations on Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars You’ll Love
Chocolate Twist: Add Cocoa or Chips
If you’re a chocolate lover, it’s easy to make these bars even richer:
- Replace ½ cup butterscotch chips with chocolate chips.
- Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the melted mixture for depth.
You can also swirl melted chocolate over the top before they cool.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Chocolate Strawberry Brownies for another chocolate-heavy, bar-style treat.
Tropical Take: Coconut and Pineapple
Want something a bit brighter? These fun tropical twists bring an island vibe:
- Swap cereal with shredded coconut for extra chew.
- Fold in small bits of dried pineapple or mango.
- Top with toasted coconut flakes for texture.
This version pairs well with summer parties or tiki-themed events.
Cereal Party Mix: Fruity Pebbles & More
Give your bars a colorful crunch with cereal swaps:
- Use Fruity Pebbles, Cocoa Puffs, or Rice Krispies for added flair.
- Kids especially love this version thanks to the rainbow specks and fun textures.
- For extra marshmallow-y goodness, add 1 more cup of minis.
You could even cut them into fun shapes for themed parties or bake sales.
Troubleshooting Tips for This No Bake Dessert
Why Are My Bars Too Sticky or Soft?
Too much heat or marshmallow can make these bars a gooey mess. Here’s how to fix it:
- Undermelted butterscotch: Reheat gently and stir until fully smooth.
- Too much marshmallow: Stick to the recipe. Overloading causes excess moisture.
- Didn’t cool long enough: Let bars sit until fully set—1 hour minimum at room temp, 30 minutes in the fridge.
How to Fix Overly Sweet Results
These bars are sweet by nature, but you can balance the flavor:
- Add more peanuts or use unsweetened peanut butter.
- A pinch of flaky sea salt on top helps cut the sugar.
- Choose plain Cheerios or low-sugar cereals instead of sweetened ones.
Why Didn’t My Chips Melt Properly?
Butterscotch chips are sensitive to high heat. If they turn grainy or clump:
- Make sure to melt slowly over low or medium-low heat only.
- Add the butter first to coat the pan and regulate heat distribution.
- Stir constantly, and avoid letting the mix sit unattended on the stove.
If you need more no-fail bar ideas, check out our Tiramisu Truffles Recipe—they’re another easy dessert win without baking drama.
FAQs About No Bake Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter can work as a substitute if you want a slightly different nutty flavor. Just make sure it’s not too oily or runny. Avoid natural almond butters unless they’re thick and smooth, or your bars might not hold together well.
How long do these bars last?
At room temperature, they last about 5 days in an airtight container. In the fridge, they can go up to 10 days. Want to prep ahead? Freeze them for up to 2 months for grab-and-go treats.
Can I skip the cereal or substitute it?
Absolutely. You can leave out the cereal entirely and just add an extra ½ to 1 cup of peanuts or shredded coconut. For fun textures, try using Rice Krispies, Cornflakes, or even crushed pretzels for a salty twist.
Are these safe to ship in warm weather?
These bars can melt if exposed to heat for long periods. If shipping, pack them with ice packs and insulated materials—or opt to send them during cooler months. For summer-friendly treats, explore our Frozen Yogurt Bites instead.
Conclusion: Why These Bars Are a Must-Try No Bake Classic
No Bake Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars are more than just easy—they’re a nostalgic, crave-worthy treat with layers of flavor and texture that hit every note: chewy, crunchy, sweet, salty, and fluffy. Whether you’re whipping up something last minute for a bake sale or prepping dessert for a family gathering, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
They come together in under 10 minutes, don’t require an oven, and can be endlessly customized to suit your taste. So go ahead—make a batch (or two). And if you love easy recipes like this, don’t miss our No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls for another instant favorite!
PrintNo Bake Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars
These No Bake Butterscotch Marshmallow Bars are a chewy, crunchy, sweet treat made with just six ingredients and no oven. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or anytime you need a quick and crowd-pleasing dessert.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes + cooling
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 11 ounces butterscotch chips
- 2 cups salted peanuts
- 1 cup cereal (e.g., Cheerios or Rice Krispies)
- 10 ounces mini marshmallows (plain or rainbow)
Instructions
- Spray a 9×13-inch pan with non-stick spray or line with parchment paper.
- In a large, deep saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter, peanut butter, and butterscotch chips. Stir constantly until smooth.
- Remove from heat and gently fold in the peanuts, cereal, and mini marshmallows.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Let cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate to speed up the process.
- Once fully cooled, cut into bars and serve. Store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Use low heat to prevent the butterscotch chips from burning.
- Don’t use natural peanut butter—it may affect consistency.
- For vegan version, use dairy-free chips, butter, and vegan marshmallows.
- Bars freeze well for up to 2 months.
- Let bars cool completely before covering to prevent condensation.
