Snowdrift Bars Recipe
Snowdrift Bars are a delightful no-bake dessert layered with buttery coconut, Nilla wafers, marshmallows, and cream cheese frosting. Perfect for winter gatherings.
12 Servings
Ingredients
For the Bars:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅔ cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 2 cups Nilla wafer cookie crumbs
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
For the Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese room temperature
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Prepare the pan
- Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Cook the butter mixture
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Add the granulated sugar and stir continuously for 1 minute until dissolved.
Temper the eggs
- Place the lightly beaten eggs in a heatproof bowl. Slowly whisk in the hot butter–sugar mixture, a tablespoon at a time, to temper the eggs. Once several tablespoons have been incorporated, whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan.
Thicken the base
- Return the saucepan to low heat. Whisk constantly for 7–8 minutes until the mixture thickens and the sugar is fully dissolved.
Add flavor and cool
- Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and shredded coconut. Allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature, about 1 hour.
Incorporate dry ingredients
- Fold in the cookie crumbs and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed. Spread the mixture into the prepared pan using a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours.
Prepare the frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth, about 1–2 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed. Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined.
Assemble and serve
- Spread the frosting evenly over the chilled bars. Use the parchment to lift the bars out of the pan, then cut into squares. Serve chilled or slightly softened at room temperature.
Notes
To make Snowdrift Bars gluten free, substitute the Nilla wafer cookie crumbs with certified gluten-free vanilla wafers or graham crackers. Double-check the marshmallows and other packaged ingredients for gluten-free labeling to avoid cross-contamination.