There’s something so nostalgic and fun about cereal bars—and when you make them with Captain Crunch Berries and gooey marshmallows, they instantly become a colorful treat that kids and adults can’t resist.
These Captain Crunch Marshmallow Bars are soft, chewy, and just the right amount of sweet. No baking, no fuss—just happy bites!
Why I Love This Recipe
It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.
The berry flavor from the cereal pairs perfectly with the sweet marshmallow base.
Kids absolutely love the vibrant colors, and grown-ups get a hit of childhood joy.
Perfect for lunchboxes, bake sales, or just a fun weekend snack.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Captain Crunch Berries cereal – Bold, fruity, and colorful with satisfying crunch.
Mini marshmallows – Melt into a sweet, gooey base while some stay whole for extra texture.
Butter – Adds richness and helps the marshmallows melt smoothly.
Nonstick spray or butter – Essential for easy cleanup and pressing the bars.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Spray everything – Your hands, spatulas, and the pan—this sticky treat needs it.
Melt on low heat – Prevents scorching the marshmallows or butter.
Add cereal off heat – Keeps the texture from getting soggy or over-mixed.
Don’t press too hard – Light pressure keeps the bars chewy, not dense.
Cool at room temp – Don’t refrigerate or they’ll harden too much.
How to Make Captain Crunch Marshmallow Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Spray a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray and set aside.
Step 2: Melt the Marshmallows
In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
Add in 5 cups of mini marshmallows and stir until fully melted and smooth.
Remove from heat.
Step 3: Mix in Cereal and Extra Marshmallows
Add Captain Crunch Berries cereal and the remaining 1 cup of mini marshmallows into the melted mixture.
Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Spread and Press
Transfer the mixture into the greased pan.
Gently press into an even layer using a buttered spatula or sprayed hands.
Step 5: Cool and Cut
Let the bars cool completely at room temperature.
Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!
What to Serve It With
A tall glass of milk – Classic pairing for any cereal treat.
Hot cocoa or iced coffee – Great contrast to the sweetness.
Vanilla ice cream – Make it a sundae by crumbling bars on top.
Fresh berries – Serve alongside for an extra fruity twist.
Pack in lunchboxes – A fun surprise for kids (or adults!).
Variations / Substitutions
Use original Captain Crunch – Or mix with other cereals like Fruity Pebbles or Trix.
Add white chocolate chips – Stir them in with the cereal for extra richness.
Use jumbo marshmallows – Just chop them roughly before melting.
Add sprinkles or colored sugar – For extra flair and fun.
Make it dairy-free – Use plant-based butter and vegan marshmallows.
Storage & Leftovers
Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Avoid the fridge: It makes the bars hard and less chewy.
Freeze-friendly: Wrap individual bars and freeze up to 1 month.
To serve from frozen: Let thaw at room temp for 20–30 minutes.
Best fresh: These bars taste best within the first 1–2 days of making.
FAQs
Can I use a different cereal?
Yes! Fruity Pebbles, Trix, or even Rice Krispies work well.
Why do my bars get hard?
Overheating the marshmallows or pressing too firmly can cause them to become dense and tough.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use vegan butter and marshmallows.
Should I refrigerate them to set faster?
It’s best to let them cool at room temperature to maintain chewiness.
How do I cut them cleanly?
Spray your knife with nonstick spray before slicing.
Can kids help with this recipe?
Yes! It’s a fun, safe, no-bake recipe perfect for little hands (with adult help on the stovetop).
Can I double the batch?
Totally! Use a larger sheet pan or two standard pans if needed.
Final Thoughts
These Captain Crunch Marshmallow Bars are the definition of playful food.
They’re simple to make, instantly cheerful, and totally delicious.
Whether you’re whipping them up for a party, a school treat, or just to satisfy your cereal cravings, they’ll hit the sweet spot every time.
Captain Crunch Marshmallow Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Spray a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray and set aside.
- In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter.
- Add 5 cups of mini marshmallows and stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
- Add cereal and remaining 1 cup of mini marshmallows. Stir until evenly combined.
- Press mixture evenly into the greased pan using sprayed hands or a buttered spatula.
- Let cool completely at room temperature. Cut into squares and enjoy.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/captain-crunch-marshmallow-b
Notes
- For easy cleanup, line the pan with parchment paper before pressing the mixture.
- Want more gooey bites? Add an extra ½ cup of unmelted marshmallows at the end.
- A dash of vanilla extract in the melted base adds an extra layer of flavor.
