Sweet, crunchy, and loaded with gooey marshmallows, these Crunchdown Marshmallow Bars are treats that score big on flavor.

These Crunchdown Marshmallow Bars are game-day gold. A chewy cookie base layered with gooey marshmallows, crunchy Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, and a caramel drizzle makes them the ultimate tailgating treat. Baked in a 9-inch square pan, they’re thick, chewy, and easy to slice into shareable squares—perfect for snacking while you cheer every play and celebrate each touchdown.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with refrigerated Cinnamon Toast Crunch cookie dough
• Thick, chewy, and layered with gooey marshmallows
• Topped with crunchy Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal for extra flavor
• Caramel drizzle and cinnamon sugar make every bite irresistible
• Perfect for tailgating, game-day parties, or casual snacking
• These Crunchdown Marshmallow Barsslice easily into shareable squares

Ingredient Notes

• Cinnamon Toast Crunch cookie dough – Using the refrigerated dough makes these bars quick and foolproof. You can usually find it in the refrigerated section near other cookie doughs.
• Mini marshmallows – They melt down smoothly for that gooey, stretchy layer. You can swap in large marshmallows if that’s what you have on hand, just chop them up first.
• Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal – Crushing the cereal lightly (not into crumbs) gives the topping its signature crunch. Feel free to add a little extra for a thicker layer.
• Caramel sauce – Store-bought caramel works great here, but homemade caramel or a salted caramel drizzle will take these bars over the top.
• Cinnamon sugar – Just a pinch ties all the flavors together and adds a little sparkle to the finish.

Before You Bake

Do I need to spray the pan if I’m using parchment paper?
Yes, a light coat of baking spray helps keep the cookie base from sticking, especially at the edges. It also makes it easier to lift the bars out cleanly for slicing.

How long should I let the cookie base cool before adding marshmallows?
Just 5–10 minutes. You want it slightly cooled so the marshmallow layer spreads smoothly without sinking into the cookie.

Can I crush the cereal ahead of time?
Absolutely. Crush it lightly (not into crumbs) and keep it in a sealed bag so it stays crisp until you sprinkle it on.

Crunchdown Marshmallow Bars

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• Author: Taryn Camp

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package refrigerated Cinnamon Toast Crunch cookie dough
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cups mini marshmallows
• 3 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal, lightly crushed
• ½ cup caramel sauce
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper and lightly coat with baking spray. Press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is just set. Cool slightly.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the mini marshmallows and stir until smooth and fully melted.
3. Pour the marshmallow mixture evenly over the baked cookie base, spreading it to the edges. Immediately sprinkle the crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch on top, pressing gently to help it stick.
4. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce and finish with a light dusting of cinnamon sugar.
5. Let the bars cool completely at room temperature (or chill to speed things up). Lift out using the parchment paper, slice into squares, and serve at room temperature.

FAQ

Can I make Crunchdown Marshmallow Bars ahead of time?
Yes. These bars keep well covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for 4–5 days.

How do I keep the bars from sticking to the knife when slicing?
Spray a sharp knife with nonstick spray or wipe it with a little butter. You can also warm the knife under hot water and dry it before each cut.

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.

What’s the best way to crush Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal?
Place the cereal in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or the bottom of a measuring cup to gently crush. Aim for chunky pieces, not fine crumbs.

Can I use a different cookie dough flavor?
Definitely. Sugar cookie dough, snickerdoodle dough, or even chocolate chip would all pair deliciously with the marshmallow and cereal layers.

Sprinkle of Fun

Pass these Crunchdown Marshmallow Bars around during halftime and turn every bite into its own little touchdown celebration. They’re the kind of sweet that keeps the energy high for watching the game, tossing the football in the yard, or just hanging out with friends until the next big play.