Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars have a way of making any holiday gathering instantly more fun! I remember the first time I saw these playful treats at a friend’s Christmas party years ago; the vibrant colors and unexpected crunch immediately caught my eye. They’re like a sweet, crunchy explosion of holiday joy! Making these Christmas spaghetti cookie bars has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen, filling the air with a sweet, buttery aroma. They are so incredibly easy to whip up, even if you’re short on time. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars Recipe
These festive bars are a holiday winner for so many reasons! They’re incredibly:
- Super Easy: Seriously, you can whip these up in minutes.
- Festive & Fun: The bright colors scream holiday cheer!
- No-Bake Magic: No oven needed means less stress and more time for fun.
- Kid-Friendly: Little hands can help with mixing and decorating.
- Quick to Make: Perfect for last-minute party prep.
- Deliciously Chewy & Crunchy: A delightful texture combination everyone enjoys.
- Perfect for Sharing: These easy elf spaghetti cookie bars are always a hit at parties.
- The Ultimate No-Bake Treat: These no bake elf spaghetti cookie bars are a lifesaver when you need a quick dessert.
Ingredients for Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars
Gather these simple ingredients for the best cornflake spaghetti cookie bars. The magic happens when sweet, gooey marshmallows bind crunchy cereal together, creating a delightful texture that’s perfect for any holiday celebration.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – provides richness and helps melt the marshmallows
- 1 (10 ounce) bag miniature marshmallows – the essential binder that makes these bars chewy
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a warm, comforting flavor
- 6 cups cornflake cereal – the star for that satisfying crunch in these spaghetti cookie bar recipe delights
- 1/2 cup red candy melts – for a festive pop of color and smooth topping
- 1/2 cup green candy melts – complements the red for a classic holiday look
- 1/4 cup festive sprinkles – the final touch to make these truly Christmas spaghetti cookie bars
How to Make Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars
Let’s dive into how to make elf spaghetti cookie bars! This recipe is so straightforward, it’s practically foolproof. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these festive treats come together, making it a perfect option for even the busiest holiday schedules. This spaghetti cookie bar recipe easy method ensures delicious results every time.
- Step 1: First, prepare your baking pan. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This simple step prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.
- Step 2: Grab a large saucepan and melt the 1/2 cup unsalted butter over low heat. Keep the heat gentle to avoid scorching the butter.
- Step 3: Once the butter is melted, add the 1 (10 ounce) bag miniature marshmallows. Stir constantly until the marshmallows are completely melted and the mixture is wonderfully smooth and gooey.
- Step 4: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for that classic sweet aroma and flavor.
- Step 5: Now for the crunch! Add the 6 cups cornflake cereal to the marshmallow mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until every single flake is evenly coated. You want that sticky goodness all over!
- Step 6: Carefully press the cereal mixture evenly into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands (lightly greased if needed) to create a flat, even surface for decorating.

- Step 7: Time for some holiday color! Melt the 1/2 cup red candy melts according to the package directions. Once smooth, drizzle this vibrant red mixture over the top of your cookie bars.
- Step 8: Next, melt the 1/2 cup green candy melts following the package instructions. Drizzle this green candy melt mixture over the bars, alternating with the red or creating fun patterns.
- Step 9: While the candy melts are still wet and glossy, immediately sprinkle the 1/4 cup festive sprinkles all over the bars. This is where they really start to look like festive treats!
- Step 10: Let the bars set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch. Patience here ensures clean cuts.
- Step 11: Once set, cut your beautiful elf spaghetti cookie bars into your desired serving size and enjoy this delightful dessert!
Pro Tips for the Best Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars
Want to elevate your holiday baking? Follow these simple tips for absolutely perfect elf spaghetti cookie bars every time. These tricks ensure your bars are wonderfully chewy and festive!
- Always use fresh marshmallows! Stale ones won’t melt as smoothly, affecting the chewiness of your Christmas spaghetti cookie bars.
- Melt your candy melts slowly and gently. Overheated candy melts can become thick and seize up, making them hard to drizzle.
- Decorate with sprinkles immediately after drizzling the candy melts. The wet candy coating is the only thing that will hold them in place.
- Proper storage is key for maintaining freshness. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.

What’s the secret to perfect chewy Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars?
The magic behind these chewy elf spaghetti cookie bars lies in fully melted marshmallows. Stir them until they’re completely smooth before adding the cereal. Also, resist the urge to press the cereal mixture too firmly into the pan; a gentle, even press is best for that delightful chew.
Can I make Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are fantastic for making ahead. Once they’ve cooled and set completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. They’re a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy holiday schedules. For more make-ahead dessert ideas, check out these latest recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars?
Watch out for stale cereal – it won’t absorb the marshmallow mixture well. Also, be super careful not to burn the marshmallows; low heat is crucial. If your candy melts seize up, try adding a tiny bit of vegetable oil (about 1/2 teaspoon) to help smooth them out. For more baking tips, you might find this guide on baking techniques helpful.
Best Ways to Serve Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars
These delightful festive spaghetti cookie bars are incredibly versatile and perfect for so many holiday occasions! They make a fantastic, eye-catching treat at any Christmas cookie bar recipes gathering, adding a burst of color and fun. I love including them as part of a larger cookie platter, where their playful appearance always stands out. They’re also a wonderful after-school snack for kids, bringing a little extra cheer to their day, especially when paired with a warm mug of hot chocolate. These Christmas spaghetti cookie bars are sure to be a hit! You might also enjoy these blueberry blondies for another sweet treat.
Nutrition Facts for Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars
When you’re whipping up these delightful elf spaghetti cookie bars, it’s helpful to know what you’re serving. These numbers are based on the recipe as written, offering a good overview of the nutritional breakdown for each bar.
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on general nutrition, you can refer to resources like the USDA FoodData Central.
How to Store and Reheat Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars
Properly storing your elf spaghetti cookie bars is key to keeping them fresh and delicious. Once they’ve completely cooled down to room temperature, which usually takes about 30 minutes after setting, you can store them. I find the best way is in an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out or picking up any unwanted odors from your pantry. You can keep them at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm and you want them to hold their shape a bit more firmly, you can pop them in the fridge for a couple of days, but I usually prefer them at room temp for the best chewy texture. These Reese’s Peanut Butter No-Bake Bars are also great for storing.
Reheating isn’t typically necessary for these no-bake treats. They’re designed to be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled. If you really wanted to warm them up, you could do so very gently in a microwave for just a few seconds, but honestly, it can make them a bit too soft and messy. For the best experience, stick to enjoying them as they are! These storage notes for Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars will help you keep them tasting great.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars
What are Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars?
Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars are a fun, no-bake dessert that looks like colorful strands of spaghetti! They’re made from a base of melted marshmallows and crunchy cornflakes, then decorated with drizzled candy melts and festive sprinkles. They’re a popular choice for holiday parties and celebrations because they’re so visually appealing and easy to make.
Why are they called Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars?
The name “Elf Spaghetti” comes from their appearance! When you drizzle the melted candy melts over the cornflake mixture, it creates thin, stringy lines that resemble strands of spaghetti. The bright, festive colors and sprinkles make them perfect for an “elf” theme, conjuring up images of Santa’s workshop and holiday fun. These Elf themed cookie bars are a playful nod to the season.
Can I use different cereals for Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars?
Yes, you absolutely can! While cornflakes provide the classic texture and look, other crispy cereals can work. Try Cheerios, crispy rice cereal, or even a festive-colored puffed cereal. Just make sure the cereal is crispy and not too sugary, as the marshmallows and candy melts already add plenty of sweetness. This flexibility makes them a versatile part of your Christmas cookie bars collection.
Can I make Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars dairy-free?
Making these dairy-free requires a few substitutions. You’ll need to find dairy-free butter, dairy-free marshmallows (many brands are available!), and dairy-free candy melts or white chocolate. Always check the labels carefully, as hidden dairy can be present. With these swaps, you can still create delicious and festive Christmas spaghetti cookie bars for everyone to enjoy.
Variations of Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars You Can Try
Looking to put your own spin on these delightful festive spaghetti cookie bars? I love how customizable they are! You can easily adapt them to suit your favorite flavors or to match specific holiday themes. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing for your next batch of Christmas cookie bar recipes.
- Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra layer of decadent flavor, fold in about 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark) into the cereal mixture along with the marshmallows. This makes for amazing chocolate elf spaghetti cookie bars!
- Play with Candy Melt Colors: Don’t limit yourself to just red and green! Try blue and white for a winter wonderland theme, or gold and silver for a touch of elegance. You can even mix colors for a marbled effect.
- Get Nutty (Optional): If you like a little crunchier texture and don’t have any nut allergies to worry about, consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cereal mixture.
- Sprinkle Extravaganza: Beyond standard holiday sprinkles, try using edible glitter, sanding sugar, or even small edible pearls for a truly dazzling finish on your holiday spaghetti cookie bars.
Amazing Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars: 10 Minute Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elf Spaghetti Cookie Bars are a festive and easy no-bake treat perfect for the holidays. These chewy bars combine sweet, crunchy elements for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 (10 ounce) bag miniature marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 cups cornflake cereal
- 1/2 cup red candy melts
- 1/2 cup green candy melts
- 1/4 cup festive sprinkles
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
- Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the cornflake cereal and stir gently until evenly coated.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Melt the red candy melts according to package directions. Drizzle over the cookie bars.
- Melt the green candy melts according to package directions. Drizzle over the cookie bars.
- Immediately sprinkle with festive sprinkles.
- Let the bars set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
- Cut into bars and serve your elf spaghetti cookie bars.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh marshmallows.
- Ensure candy melts are fully melted but not overheated.
- Decorate with sprinkles while the candy melts are still wet.
- Store leftover elf spaghetti cookie bars in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg







