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Magically delicious cheesecake bars combine the nostalgic crunch of Lucky Charms cereal with velvety smooth cream cheese filling for an irresistible no bake treat. The colorful marshmallow bits and festive green hue create a playful dessert that brings childhood cereal enjoyment into sophisticated sweet territory. Perfect for St. Patrick's Day celebrations or anytime you need a whimsical, easy to prepare dessert that will delight both children and adults alike.
I created these cheesecake bars for my son's birthday party that fell near St. Patrick's Day, wanting something festive that wouldn't require additional oven time with all the other party preparations. The colorful creation was such a hit that the children and adults alike were reaching for seconds, and several parents requested the recipe before leaving. What began as a time saving solution has become our most requested spring celebration dessert, bringing smiles with its playful appearance and satisfying taste.
Playful Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the cereal mixture.
- Mini marshmallows: Bind the cereal together with sweet, sticky goodness.
- Lucky Charms cereal: Provides the signature flavor and colorful visual appeal.
- Cream cheese: Delivers tangy richness essential to the cheesecake layer.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the filling with subtle citrus notes.
- Heavy whipping cream: Creates a light, mousse like texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling to perfect balance.
- Green food coloring: Adds festive color perfect for St. Patrick's Day.
- Lucky Charms marshmallows: Provide decorative and flavorful garnish.
Preparation Method
- Cereal Base Creation:
- Melt butter over low heat in a saucepan. Add mini marshmallows and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Cereal Incorporation:
- Mix in Lucky Charms cereal, ensuring even coating without crushing the pieces.
- Base Formation:
- Press mixture into a parchment lined 9x9 inch baking pan and allow to cool.
- Cheesecake Preparation:
- Beat softened cream cheese with lemon juice until smooth. Separately, whip heavy cream, gradually adding sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Color Enhancement:
- Add green food coloring to the whipped cream mixture, adjusting to desired shade.
- Gentle Combination:
- Fold whipped cream mixture into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined without deflating.
- Layer Application:
- Spread cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled cereal base.
- Setting Process:
- Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Final Decoration:
- Before serving, top with reserved Lucky Charms marshmallows and sprinkles.
- Serving Preparation:
- Lift from pan using parchment handles, cut into bars using a warmed knife, and allow to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving.
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My family particularly enjoys these bars straight from the freezer during warmer months, appreciating their ice cream like consistency on hot days. My children love helping separate the colorful marshmallows from extra cereal for the topping, turning preparation into a fun activity. We've found these bars make perfect portable treats for picnics when stored in a cooler, maintaining their shape and cool creaminess even outdoors.
Festive Presentations
For a magical dessert table, serve alongside rainbow themed treats for a St. Patrick's Day celebration. Arrange on a tiered stand with chocolate gold coins, rainbow fruit skewers, and green macarons. Use small pots of additional Lucky Charms marshmallows as 'pots of gold' for a whimsical touch.
For individual servings, cut smaller squares and place in cupcake liners. Top with a large marshmallow and insert a paper straw or lollipop stick for an easy, mess free treat. Package in clear cellophane bags tied with rainbow ribbon for a visually appealing gift.
Flavor Adaptations
Chocolate Lucky Charms bars add cocoa richness by incorporating three tablespoons of cocoa powder into the marshmallow mixture and two tablespoons into the cheesecake filling. A drizzle of melted chocolate and additional marshmallows complete this indulgent version.
Fruity rainbow bars introduce citrus brightness by adding lemon, orange, or lime zest to both the cereal base and cheesecake filling. Fruity Lucky Charms or a blend with Fruit Loops enhances the summery appeal.
Mint chocolate bars bring a wintery twist with half a teaspoon of peppermint extract in the cheesecake filling and a layer of crushed Andes mints before topping with marshmallows. This version is perfect for Christmas or winter gatherings.
Storage Directions
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days for a softer cheesecake texture. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
For a firmer ice cream bar consistency, store in the freezer for up to one month. Allow bars to sit at room temperature for five minutes before serving for the best texture.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these Lucky Charms Cheesecake Bars ahead of time?
- Yes, these bars can be made 2-3 days in advance. Keep them in the freezer and add the marshmallow toppings just before serving for the best presentation.
- → How should I store leftover Lucky Charms Cheesecake Bars?
- Store leftover bars in the freezer in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. You can also keep them in the refrigerator if you prefer a softer texture, but they'll only last 3-4 days.
- → Can I use a different cereal instead of Lucky Charms?
- Absolutely! Try Fruity Pebbles, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, or Cocoa Puffs for different flavors. Just keep the same measurements for the cereal base.
- → Do I need to let the bars thaw before serving?
- It's best to let them thaw for about 10-15 minutes after removing from the freezer. This allows the cheesecake layer to soften slightly while still maintaining its structure.
- → What can I use instead of green food coloring?
- You can use matcha powder for a natural green color, or skip the coloring altogether. Alternatively, choose another food coloring to match different holiday themes.