Name: Delicious Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks to Celebrate!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces Medium Candy Canes (Avoid mini versions for better stability); 12 pieces Large Marshmallows (Opt for vegan varieties like Dandies if desired); 1 cup Dairy-Free Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (Enjoy Life Chocolates recommended); 1 teaspoon Coconut Oil (Can be substituted with another oil)

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The aroma of melted chocolate and crisp peppermint wafts through the kitchen as I prepare to make my favorite festive treat: Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks. These delightful little candies not only bring a cheerful twist to holiday gatherings, but they’re also tailored for everyone, being dairy-free and delightfully allergy-friendly. What’s not to love about a quick recipe that pleases both kids and adults alike? With a crunchy candy cane base, puffy marshmallow center, and a luscious dairy-free chocolate coating, these treats are perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cozy cup of hot cocoa. So, are you ready to add this scrumptious holiday favorite to your sweet repertoire?

Why are these peppermint sticks irresistible?

Delightfully Festive: These Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks capture the essence of the holiday season with their vibrant colors and flavors, making them the perfect festive treat.

Allergy-Friendly: Crafted to accommodate various dietary needs, they’re dairy-free, nut-free, and gluten-free, ensuring that everyone can indulge without worry.

Quick and Easy: Whip these up in no time! The simple preparation requires just a few ingredients and minimal steps, letting you enjoy the fun instead of feeling overwhelmed.

Crowd-Pleasing Candy: Whether for a party or a cozy night in, these sweet sticks charm both kids and adults, making them an instant hit at any gathering. Pair them with a cup of homemade dairy-free hot cocoa for a delightful combo!

Customizable Fun: Feel free to get creative! Swap out the fillings or experiment with different chocolate varieties to suit your taste. Give it a personal touch that’s uniquely yours.

Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks Ingredients

For the Sticks
• Medium Candy Canes – Adds a delightful peppermint flavor while serving as the perfect stick base; avoid mini versions for better stability.
• Large Marshmallows – Provides a sweet, chewy texture; opt for vegan varieties like Dandies if desired.

For the Chocolate Coating
• Dairy-Free Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Delivers a rich chocolate layer; Enjoy Life Chocolates are a fantastic choice that keeps these Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks dairy-free.
• Coconut Oil – Helps melt the chocolate smoothly; if you’re in need, this can be substituted with another oil like vegetable oil.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks

Step 1: Prepare Candy Canes
Begin by unwrapping 12 medium candy canes and gently break off the curved tops to create sticks. Use a rolling pin or a mallet to smash the broken pieces into fine crumbs. Set the crushed candy canes aside on a plate, which you will use later for coating the chocolate marshmallow peppermint sticks.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dairy-free semi-sweet chocolate chips with a teaspoon of coconut oil. Heat in the microwave on high for 1 minute, then remove and whisk thoroughly. Return to the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth—this usually takes about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Dip Peppermint Sticks
Take each broken candy cane stick and dip the broken end into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s well coated. Next, press this chocolate-covered end onto one side of a large marshmallow. Place the marshmallows on a sheet of parchment paper to ensure they won’t stick while you continue assembling the chocolate marshmallow peppermint sticks.

Step 4: Chill Marshmallows
Transfer the assembled marshmallows to the refrigerator and chill for 15 minutes. This will help the chocolate adhere better to the marshmallows. After chilling, they should feel firmer to the touch, ready for the next delicious step in making your Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks.

Step 5: Coat with Chocolate
Once the marshmallows are chilled, remove them from the refrigerator, and dip each marshmallow stick into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s thoroughly covered. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before rolling the marshmallow in your prepared crushed candy cane crumbs for a festive finish.

Step 6: Set and Store
Place the finished chocolate marshmallow peppermint sticks back on parchment paper and refrigerate them for an additional 15 minutes to let the chocolate set completely. Once set, store the treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Enjoy the joy these delightful treats bring to your festive celebrations!

Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks even further!

Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate: Try using dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor. It creates a lovely contrast with the sweet marshmallows.
Flavored Chocolate: Add a splash of mint extract to the chocolate for an extra burst of peppermint flavor. This enhances the overall taste profile and makes them even more festive.
Nut-Free Crunch: For a delightful texture, roll the chocolate-coated sticks in crushed nuts like almonds or pecans, ensuring they stay nut-free for allergy considerations. The added crunch complements the softness of the marshmallow.
Don’t Forget the Sprinkles: After coating the sticks in chocolate, roll them in colorful sprinkles instead of candy cane crumbs. This adds a playful touch—perfect for holiday parties!
Fruity Marshmallows: Swap out traditional marshmallows for fruit-flavored options, like strawberry or raspberry. This tantalizing twist introduces a fun flavor combination that’ll surprise anyone who bites in.
Peppermint Crunch Coating: Use crushed peppermint candies instead of traditional candy canes for a bolder peppermint kick. These are also visually stunning, adding a beautiful pop of color.
Homemade Candy Cane: If you’re feeling crafty, make your own peppermint-infused marshmallows. This allows for a completely tailored flavor that celebrates the holiday spirit!

For more inspiration on festive goodies, be sure to check out the delicious Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls or indulge in sweet memories with Double Chocolate Muffins. Crafting your treats ensures each bite is filled with love and warmth!

What to Serve with Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks

The festive spirit of your kitchen will shine even brighter with delectable sides to complement these enchanting treats.

Homemade Dairy-Free Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, this beverage pairs perfectly with the chocolatey goodness, enhancing the cozy experience. Picture sipping a warm cup beside the twinkling lights, creating sweet moments.
Peppermint Bark: Crunchy, creamy, and bursting with holiday flavors, peppermint bark complements the peppermint sticks and makes for delightful gift-giving alongside them.
Fresh Fruit Skewers: Juicy strawberries and tart apple slices provide a refreshing contrast to the rich marshmallow treats, balancing sweetness with a burst of freshness.
Mini Gingerbread Cookies: The spiced warmth of gingerbread cookies creates a festive atmosphere and tastes divine with the minty delights of your peppermint sticks.
Nutty Caramel Brownies: Decadent and chewy, these brownies invite the richness of chocolate to play alongside the festive flavors, making every bite joyful.
Eggnog Latte: Warm frothy milk with a splash of eggnog and a sprinkle of nutmeg brings a merry twist to your beverage options, fitting beautifully with the holiday treat spread.
Spiced Apple Cider: Hot apple cider infused with cinnamon is the perfect warming drink to accompany your sweet sticks, enveloping you in holiday comforts.
Crushed Candy Cane Ice Cream: This cool treat echoes the peppermint flavors, providing a delightful contrast served over a warm chocolate marshmallow stick.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks

Room Temperature: Store your Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: If your kitchen is particularly warm, you can keep the peppermint sticks in the refrigerator for optimal firmness, but they should be consumed within 2 weeks.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chocolate-covered treats in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container; they’ll last up to 3 months but may lose some texture.

Reheating: If the sticks become slightly hard after refrigeration, leave them at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance their chewy marshmallow goodness.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time around the holidays! You can prepare the candy cane sticks and dip them in melted chocolate up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. Additionally, the marbled marshmallows can be assembled and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days before coating them with chocolate. Just make sure to chill them thoroughly so they are stable. When you’re ready to serve, simply finish dipping them in chocolate, roll in crushed candy canes, and refrigerate for another 15 minutes to set perfectly. Enjoy these festive treats as a delicious time-saver during the holiday hustle!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks

Chocolate Melting: Stir frequently while melting to avoid overheating chocolate; a smooth consistency is key for coating your sticks.
Chilling Time: Don’t skip chilling the marshmallows! This helps the chocolate adhere better, ensuring a delightful experience with each bite.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your work surface with parchment paper to prevent sticking during the setting process of your Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks.
Crushed Candy Coating: Make sure to roll the marshmallows in the crushed candy cane immediately after dipping, while the chocolate is still wet for better adherence.
Vegan Options: For a fully vegan treat, choose vegan marshmallows and ensure your chocolate is dairy-free; brands like Enjoy Life are excellent choices!

Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best candy canes for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing candy canes, opt for medium-sized ones instead of mini versions, as the latter may not provide the stability needed for dipping and pressing into marshmallows. Look for candy canes without dark spots or breakage, indicating freshness and quality.

What’s the best way to store Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks?
Keep your delicious treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you’re in a warm climate, the fridge is a safer bet, which maintains the sticks’ firmness while keeping them fresh.

Can I freeze Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once completely frozen (about 2 hours), transfer them into an airtight container or a freezer bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes for the best texture.

What should I do if my chocolate isn’t melting smoothly?
No worries! If your chocolate begins to set or seize, simply add a small amount of coconut oil (1 teaspoon at a time) and gently reheat in 15-second intervals, stirring frequently. This should help restore its fluidity, making it perfect for dipping.

Are these Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks safe for those with allergies?
Yes! These treats are designed to be dairy-free, nut-free, and gluten-free. To ensure they meet all dietary needs, check labels for allergens in chocolate chips and marshmallows. Brands like Enjoy Life Chocolates and Dandies vegan marshmallows are excellent options that cater to these dietary restrictions.

Can I use different types of chocolate for the coating?
The more the merrier! You can definitely experiment with dark or white chocolate for a unique twist. Just be sure to choose dairy-free versions, and feel free to add festive spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the chocolate for an added flavor dimension!