5-Ingredient Oven Baked Summer Treat: The Sweet, Crunchy, Irresistible Dessert That Disappears First

Why This Recipe Is a Keeper

Before we dive into the method, here is why this summer treat will become a favorite.

  1. Only 5 ingredients. Simple and flavorful.

  2. No special equipment. Just a sheet pan.

  3. Ready in under 30 minutes.

  4. Crunchy and gooey. The perfect texture combination.

  5. Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves malted milk balls and marshmallows.

  6. Budget-friendly. Simple ingredients are inexpensive.

  7. Perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Servings: 12

  • 2 cups whole uncrushed malted milk balls

  • 2 cups mini marshmallows

  • 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

Ingredient Notes

Malted milk balls: Use whole malted milk balls. They add crunch and chocolate flavor.

Mini marshmallows: Toasted marshmallows add sweetness and gooey texture.

Graham crackers: Crushed graham crackers form the buttery crust.

Unsalted butter: Binds the crust and adds richness.

Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and helps bind the dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a rimmed sheet pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, stir together the crushed graham crackers and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture into an even layer across the bottom of the sheet pan.

Step 3: Add the Toppings

Scatter the mini marshmallows evenly over the crust. Add the whole uncrushed malted milk balls across the top so every bite gets some candy crunch.

Step 4: Add the Condensed Milk

Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk as evenly as possible over the top, making sure it reaches most of the marshmallows and candy.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the marshmallows are puffed and lightly golden and the edges are bubbling.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the pan cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing or breaking into pieces.

How to Serve This Summer Treat

This sweet, crunchy dessert is delicious on its own, but a few additions make it even better.

With Ice Cream: Serve with vanilla or chocolate ice cream.

With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness.

With Fresh Berries: Add strawberries or raspberries.

With Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle with extra chocolate.

With Coffee: Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.

Variations & Tips

Make It with Chocolate Chips: Substitute chocolate chips for the malted milk balls.

Make It with Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts.

Make It with Different Crackers: Use vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits.

Make It with Caramel: Drizzle with caramel sauce.

Make It with Coconut: Add shredded coconut.

Make It with Peanut Butter: Add peanut butter chips.

Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers.

Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and condensed milk.

Make It in a 9×13 Pan: Use a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Pro Tips for Absolute Success

Press the crust firmly. This prevents it from crumbling.

Do not overbake. The marshmallows should be golden, not burnt.

Let the dessert cool completely. This allows it to set.

Cut into squares or break into pieces. Both work.

Store in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different candy?
Yes. Chocolate chips or peanut butter cups can be used.

Can I use a different marshmallow?
Yes. Large marshmallows can be used.

Can I use a different cracker?
Yes. Vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits work.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Why is my crust crumbling?
The butter was not evenly distributed. Press firmly.

Can I add more toppings?
Yes. Add chocolate chips or nuts.

Can I use a different pan?
Yes. Any rimmed baking sheet works.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
This recipe is designed for the oven.

The Beauty of Simple Desserts

There is something deeply satisfying about a dessert that comes together with almost no effort. This summer treat is a celebration of simplicity. It is sweet. It is crunchy. It is the kind of dessert that makes people happy.

Keep malted milk balls in your pantry. Keep marshmallows and graham crackers in your cupboard. Keep butter and condensed milk in your fridge. This recipe is the reason why.


Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18–22 minutes
Cooling Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings

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