COVID-19 might have stolen church holiday bazaars this year, but it hasn’t stolen their spirit. All November, I’ve been posting classic bake table recipes for you to make at home as well as showcasing some of my best bazaar finds over the years.

This week, it’s all about the P.B. These Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares are one of my all-time favourites. There’s some disagreement in my family about whether the marshmallows get mixed in or sprinkled on top. But I’m here to tell you to mix them in. Personally, I prefer the aesthetic of the thin coating on the marshmallows. It’s like a protective layer that seals in their squishiness. Just wait until the mixture has cooled somewhat before adding the marshmallows.

This recipe comes from a cookbook called “Your Guess Is as Good as Mine.” In other words, I have no idea where the recipe came from. Only that it’s on an index card written in my mom’s handwriting.

½ cup butter
1 package butterscotch chips
1 cup smooth peanut butter
3 ½ cups miniature marshmallows

In the lower pot of a double boiler, add water halfway to top and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer. In top of boiler, heat butter, butterscotch chips and peanut butter until melted. Remove from heat. Stir in marshmallows. Pour into buttered 8” x 8” pan. Refrigerate and cut into squares.

I’ve sometimes seen these made with multi-coloured marshmallows, but I’m in strong opposition. Multi-coloured marshmallows are fruit-flavoured and, if you ask me, fruit and peanut butter go together like potato chips and frosting. In other words, they don’t. You do what you want to do, though.

Now onto my Best o’ Bazaar-o-Rama Treasures!

1) Christmas Bitch

I was at a bazaar in 2018 when I felt a steely stare on my back. I turned around and almost wet myself when I saw this mean-faced ornament demanding that I take her home. In case there are any doubts, Christmas Bitch never likes any gifts she’s given and always proclaims your turkey is too dry. She was one dollar, but she was worth fifty. According to her.

2) Shell Lamp

I came across this Sistine Chapel of shell art at a bazaar in 2019. I’m not quite sure of the artist’s motivation or why they gave it to a bazaar and not the Louvre, but at least it’s found a happy home. And it actually lights up! At four dollars, I almost felt guilty spending so little. Almost.

That’s a wrap for this week. Come back next week for the final installment! Stay safe, everyone!