Hello, Good News! Welcome to our blog, where we share with you the best recipes for your sweet tooth. Today, we are going to show you how to make mallowmelt, a delectable dessert that is featured in the popular fantasy book series, Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger.
If you are a fan of the books, you probably know that mallowmelt is a favorite treat among the elves, especially Sophie Foster, the main protagonist. It is described as a gooey, chocolatey, marshmallowy concoction that melts in your mouth and makes you feel warm and fuzzy. Sounds amazing, right? Well, you don’t have to travel to the Lost Cities to enjoy this dessert. You can make it at home with some simple ingredients and a few easy steps. Let’s get started!
What is Mallowmelt?
Mallowmelt is a type of bar cookie that consists of a butterscotch base, topped with marshmallows, chocolate chips, and more butterscotch chips. It is then drizzled with condensed milk and baked until golden and bubbly. The result is a rich and decadent dessert that is soft, chewy, and crunchy at the same time.
Mallowmelt was created by Shannon Messenger, the author of the Keeper of the Lost Cities series. She came up with the idea while writing the first book, when she wanted to give Sophie a special treat that would make her feel happy and comforted. She experimented with different ingredients until she found the perfect combination. She then shared the recipe on her website[^1^] for her fans to try.
Why is Mallowmelt so Popular?
Mallowmelt is not only delicious, but also has a special meaning for the fans of the Keeper of the Lost Cities series. It is a symbol of friendship, love, and adventure. It represents the bond between Sophie and her friends, who often share mallowmelt together during their missions or celebrations. It also represents Sophie’s connection to her biological parents, who left her clues about their identity through mallowmelt wrappers.
Mallowmelt is also popular because it is easy to make and customize. You can use different types of chips, such as white chocolate or peanut butter, or add nuts or sprinkles for extra crunch and flavor. You can also cut them into different shapes or sizes, or decorate them with frosting or candies. The possibilities are endless!
How to Store Mallowmelt?
Mallowmelt is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, when it is still warm and gooey. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat them, you can microwave them for 10 seconds or bake them in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
Mallowmelt can also be given as a gift to your friends or family. You can wrap them individually in parchment paper or foil, or place them in a cute box or tin. You can also attach a note or a card with a quote from the books or a personal message.
How to Make Mallowmelt?
Now that you know what mallowmelt is and why it is so popular, let’s learn how to make it. Here are the ingredients and steps you will need:
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter
- 2 cups (340 g) butterscotch chips, divided
- 2/3 cup (133 g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups (150 g) miniature marshmallows, divided
- 2 cups (340 g) semisweet chocolate chips, divided
- 1 14 oz (397 g) can of sweetened condensed milk
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) metal baking pan.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1 cup (170 g) of the butterscotch chips with the butter in the microwave. It’s easiest to work in 20 second intervals, stirring in between. Set aside to cool slightly. (Note: Do not over melt! It’s okay if a few lumps remain.)
- In a large bowl, whisk the brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until combined.
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder and salt until combined.
- When the butterscotch mixture has cooled, pour into the large bowl and whisk to combine with the brown sugar/egg/vanilla mixture.
- Add the flour mixture and stir until just mixed.
- Stir in 2 cups (100 g) of the marshmallows, 1 cup (170 g) of chocolate chips and 1/2 cup (85 g) of the butterscotch chips.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Top with the remaining marshmallows, chocolate, and butterscotch chips, scattering evenly.
- Drizzle the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until set. The top will be browned but still quite gooey.
- Cool completely (at least 2-3 hours) and cut into bars. Enjoy!
Mallowmelt Variations
If you want to try some different versions of mallowmelt, here are some ideas you can experiment with:
Fitz’s Favorite Chocolate-Mint Ripplefluffs
If you are a fan of Fitz Vacker, one of Sophie’s love interests in the series, you might want to try his favorite dessert: chocolate-mint ripplefluffs. These are similar to mallowmelt, but with a chocolate base and a minty twist. Here is how to make them:
- 1/2 cup (113 g) melted butter
- 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
- 1/2 cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40 g) cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (63 g) flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup (85 g) mini semisweet chocolate chips
- Chocolate mint candies (Andes mints recommended)
- Chocolate sprinkles
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin pan with foil liners (paper will work, but brownies tend to stick).
- In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter, both sugars, vanilla and eggs until smooth.
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa, salt and baking powder.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Scoop by 1/4 cup into the prepared muffin pan.
- Press 1 chocolate mint candy into the center of each and smooth batter over the top.
- Top with sprinkles.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove from oven and place a second chocolate mint candy on top.
- Let cool for 10 minutes then remove from pan to cooling rack and allow to cool completely.
Sophie’s Special Butter-Toffee Ripplefluffs
If you want to make something special for Sophie Foster, the heroine of the series, you might want to try her special butter-toffee ripplefluffs. These are similar to Fitz’s ripplefluffs, but with a buttery base and a toffee flavor. Here is how to make them:
- 12 tablespoons (170 g) unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
- 1 1/2 cups (300 g) packed brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (170 g) white chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup (120 g) toffee pieces (for those with nut allergies–smashed Werther’s Original hard candies work perfectly)
- 15 chocolate kisses
- Rainbow sprinkles
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin pan with foil liners(paper liners will work, but brownies tend to stick).
- In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla and whisk until well combined.
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder and salt.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips and toffee pieces.
- Scoop by 1/4 cup into the prepared muffin pan.
- Press 1 chocolate kiss into the center of each and smooth batter over the top.
- Top with sprinkles.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes then remove from pan to cooling rack and allow to cool completely.
Keefe’s Crazy Caramel-Peanut Butter Ripplefluffs
If you are feeling adventurous and want to try something that Keefe Sencen, Sophie’s best friend and prankster in the series, would love, you might want to try his crazy caramel-peanut butter ripplefluffs. These are similar to Sophie’s ripplefluffs, but with a peanut butter base and a caramel swirl. Here is how to make them:
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled
- 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
- 1/2 cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (125 g) creamy peanut butter
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) caramel sauce
- 15 mini peanut butter cups
- Peanut butter chips or chopped peanuts (optional)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin pan with foil liners (paper liners will work, but brownies tend to stick).
- In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter, both sugars, and peanut butter until smooth.
- Add the eggs and vanilla and whisk until well combined.
- In a small bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder and salt.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
- Scoop by 1/4 cup into the prepared muffin pan.
- Drizzle about 1 teaspoon of caramel sauce over each and swirl with a toothpick or knife.
- Press 1 mini peanut butter cup into the center of each and smooth batter over the top.
- Sprinkle with peanut butter chips or chopped peanuts if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes then remove from pan to cooling rack and allow to cool completely.
Mallowmelt FAQ
If you have any questions about mallowmelt, here are some answers you might find helpful:
What is Keeper of the Lost Cities?
Keeper of the Lost Cities is a fantasy book series by Shannon Messenger that follows the adventures of Sophie Foster, a 12-year-old girl who discovers she is an elf with special abilities. She joins a secret world of elves called the Lost Cities, where she makes new friends, faces enemies, and uncovers secrets about her past. The series has nine books so far, with more to come. You can find out more about the series on Shannon Messenger’s website or on Amazon.
Where can I buy mallowmelt?
Mallowmelt is not sold in stores, but you can make it at home with our recipe above. You can also order mallowmelt online from some fan-made shops on Etsy or other platforms. However, we cannot guarantee the quality or safety of these products, so please use your own discretion when buying from third-party sellers.
Can I make mallowmelt vegan/gluten-free/nut-free?
Yes, you can make mallowmelt suitable for different dietary preferences or restrictions by substituting some of the ingredients. For example, you can use vegan butter, vegan marshmallows, dairy-free chocolate chips, and plant-based condensed milk for a vegan version. You can use gluten-free flour or oat flour for a gluten-free version. You can use sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter for a nut-free version. However, please note that these substitutions may affect the taste or texture of the final product, so you may need to adjust the amounts or baking time accordingly.
How many calories are in mallowmelt?
Mallowmelt is a very indulgent dessert, so it is not recommended to eat too much of it. One bar of mallowmelt (about 2.5 x 2.5 inches or 6.4 x 6.4 cm) has about 380 calories, 18 grams of fat, 51 grams of carbs, and 5 grams of protein. This is based on the original recipe above, without any variations or toppings. If you want to reduce the calories, you can cut smaller pieces or use less condensed milk or chocolate chips.
Can I freeze mallowmelt?
Yes, you can freeze mallowmelt for up to 3 months. To do so, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for about an hour, or microwave them for 10 seconds.
What can I serve with mallowmelt?
Mallowmelt is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with some other treats to make it even more special. For example, you can serve it with ice cream, whipped cream, fresh fruits, nuts, caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or anything else you like. You can also make a mallowmelt sundae by layering mallowmelt pieces with ice cream and toppings in a large glass or bowl.
How can I make mallowmelt more healthy?
Mallowmelt is not a very healthy dessert, but you can make some changes to make it slightly better for you. For example, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, coconut sugar instead of brown sugar, dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet chocolate chips, and reduced-fat condensed milk instead of regular condensed milk. You can also add some oats, flax seeds, chia seeds, or other healthy ingredients to the batter for some extra fiber and nutrients.
What are some other desserts from the Keeper of the Lost Cities series?
Mallowmelt is not the only dessert that appears in the Keeper of the Lost Cities series. There are many other delicious treats that the characters enjoy throughout the books. Some of them are:
- Custard bursts: These are small pastries filled with creamy custard and topped with powdered sugar. They are Sophie’s favorite dessert at Foxfire Academy.
- Everblaze: This is a flaming dessert that consists of a cake soaked in brandy and set on fire. It is served at special occasions like banquets or festivals.
- Frosted flowers: These are edible flowers coated with sugar and frozen in liquid nitrogen. They are a delicacy among the elves and are often used as decorations or gifts.
- Gnomish brownies: These are brownies made by gnomes, who are creatures that live in harmony with nature and take care of plants and animals. They are very moist and fudgy and have a hint of mint.
- Lushberry juice: This is a drink made from lushberries, which are sweet and tangy fruits that grow in the Lost Cities. It is very refreshing and energizing and can be mixed with other flavors like lemon or ginger.
If you want to share your mallowmelt with other fans of the Keeper of the Lost Cities series, you can join some online communities where you can post pictures, videos, or reviews of your creations. Some of them are:
- The official Keeper of the Lost Cities fan club: This is a website where you can find news, updates, quizzes, games, and more about the series. You can also chat with other fans and share your thoughts and opinions.
- The official Shannon Messenger Instagram: This is where Shannon Messenger posts photos and stories about her life and her books. You can also see some fan art and fan mail that she receives from her readers.
- The Keeper of the Lost Cities subreddit: This is a forum where you can discuss anything related to the series with other fans. You can also share your fan art, fan fiction, theories, predictions, and more.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed this article about how to make mallowmelt, a delicious dessert from the Keeper of the Lost Cities series by Shannon Messenger. Mallowmelt is a gooey, chocolatey,marshmallowy concoction that melts in your mouth and makes you feel warm and fuzzy. It is easy to make and customize, and you can share it with your friends or family. You can also try some variations of mallowmelt, such as ripplefluffs, that are inspired by the characters from the series. If you have any questions about mallowmelt or the series, you can check out our FAQ section or join some online communities where you can chat with other fans.
Thank you for reading our article and we hope you have fun making and eating mallowmelt. If you liked this article, please check out our other articles on our blog, where we share more recipes and tips for your sweet tooth.