As I took a bite of these quick and easy S’Mores Bars, the warm, gooey marshmallow and rich chocolate flourished in my mouth, transporting me straight to summer campfire nights. Who would have thought these portable delights could pack all the nostalgic flavors of traditional s’mores in such a simple baked form? Not only are these bars a crowd-pleaser—perfect for everything from casual get-togethers to special celebrations—but they also require minimal effort, making them an ideal sweet treat for any busy home chef. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be whipping up a batch that’s effortlessly delightful and sure to impress. Curious about how to create a dessert that tastes like a childhood memory? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These S’Mores Bars So Great?
Simplicity at Its Finest: With just a few ingredients, these S’Mores Bars can be whipped up in no time, making them the perfect choice for busy bakers.
Childhood Nostalgia: Each bite is reminiscent of summer campfire nights, bringing back cherished memories of roasting marshmallows under the stars.
Flexible Flavor Options: Feel free to customize with different chocolate chips, or even add caramel for an extra twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging after dinner, these bars will impress family and friends. You can also explore other sweet creations like Apple Brownies Moist that share the same delightful comfort!
Gooey Texture Perfection: The combination of melting chocolate and soft marshmallow ensures a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
S’Mores Bars Ingredients
For the Bars
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs – Adds flavor and texture reminiscent of traditional S’Mores; make your own by crushing whole graham crackers or purchase pre-made crumbs.
• Baking Powder – Leavening agent that helps the bars rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; use room temperature for easier mixing.
• Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and a slight caramel flavor; can substitute with granulated sugar for a less complex sweetness.
• Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; ensure they are beaten well before adding.
For the Topping
• Marshmallow Topping (e.g., Marshmallow Creme) – Delivers the classic marshmallow flavor and gooey texture; mini marshmallows can be a delicious substitute if desired.
• Milk Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and a rich chocolate flavor; dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer taste.
These S’Mores Bars ingredients are all you need to create a dessert that brings back those warm summer nights—perfect for busy days when you crave something sweet!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gooey S’Mores Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with aluminum foil, leaving a 2-inch overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the S’Mores Bars lift out easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This combination forms the foundation of your bars, providing structure and flavor. Be sure to mix until well combined and set aside for the next step.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of room-temperature unsalted butter and 1 cup of light brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This creates a rich base for your S’Mores Bars. Next, add in 2 beaten large eggs, mixing well until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want a tender bar texture. The batter will be thick and slightly sticky, perfect for your S’Mores Bars.
Step 5: Press Half of the Dough into the Pan
Divide the dough in half, and with clean hands, press half of the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. This will form the crust for your bars. Ensure it’s packed down well, making the surface even and ready for the toppings that will create that classic S’Mores taste.
Step 6: Add Marshmallow and Chocolate
Spread 1 cup of marshmallow topping evenly over the crust, allowing it to fully cover the surface. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of milk chocolate chips on top of the marshmallow layer. The combination of these ingredients will create the gooey, sweet filling of your S’Mores Bars.
Step 7: Crumble the Remaining Dough
Take the remaining half of the dough and crumble it in small clumps over the marshmallow and chocolate layers. Ensure some of the chocolate and marshmallow are left exposed for that delicious gooey look. This will help create a perfect balance of textures in your S’Mores Bars.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top turns a lovely golden brown. The bars should be set in the center but still soft to the touch. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking and losing that delicious gooeyness.
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Allow the S’Mores Bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the foil overhang. Slice into squares and savor the delicious flavors of this irresistible treat!
Variations & Substitutions for S’Mores Bars
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful S’Mores Bars to suit your taste buds!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a tasty alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to create a vegan-friendly version of these gooey treats.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor in every bite.
- Peanut Butter Bliss: Mix in peanut butter chips along with the chocolate chips for a deliciously creamy twist.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the bars before serving for an extra layer of sweetness—talk about indulgent!
- Spiced Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, inviting twist that enhances the traditional S’Mores flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Consider adding sliced strawberries or bananas for a fruity surprise that brightens each bite.
- S’mores 2.0: For a fun spin, swap out the chocolate chips with Biscoff spread or cookies for a caramelized flavor that luscious.
Explore these variations and check out our delicious Apple Brownies Moist for more sweet inspirations that are sure to impress your friends and family!
Make Ahead Options
These S’Mores Bars are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the crust mixture and cut it into squares up to 24 hours in advance, storing it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature to maintain its delicious texture. Additionally, consider assembling the bars entirely and refrigerating them for up to 3 days before baking. Just remember to cover the pan with foil to prevent any drying out. When ready to enjoy your homemade S’Mores Bars, simply pop them in the oven straight from the fridge; they’ll bake up just as gooey and delightful! This way, you’ll have a scrumptious dessert ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights.
Storage Tips for S’Mores Bars
Room Temperature: Store your S’Mores Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delicious gooey texture.
Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate the bars in a sealed container for up to a week. Chilling may help keep them firm for cleaner slicing.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their delightful flavor.
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before enjoying your gooey S’Mores Bars!
Expert Tips for S’Mores Bars
• Chill for Easier Slicing: Refrigerate the bars for at least 30 minutes after cooling. This makes cutting them into neat squares much easier.
• Perfect Marshmallow Layer: For a gooier texture, use marshmallow crème rather than mini marshmallows, as it spreads more evenly and melts beautifully.
• Watch for Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the S’Mores Bars in the oven; pull them out when they’re golden brown, as this preserves their signature gooey texture.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips—dark chocolate or even peanut butter chips—to personalize your S’Mores Bars and add a delicious twist.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips and fresh butter for the best flavor. Good ingredients will elevate this simple dessert!
What to Serve with Gooey S’Mores Bars?
When indulging in the rich, gooey delight of S’Mores Bars, consider these tasty companions to enhance your dessert experience.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool and creamy texture of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the warm, gooey bars, creating a luxurious dessert.
- Fresh Berries Medley: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a fruity freshness that cuts through the sweetness, complementing the bars beautifully.
- Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A rich chocolate drizzle enhances the chocolatey goodness of the S’Mores Bars, making each bite simply irresistible.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed nuts, like almonds or pecans, on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft texture of the bars.
- Hot Cocoa: Cozy up your dessert moment with a warm mug of hot cocoa. The combination of chocolate and marshmallow flavor creates a delightful experience reminiscent of campfire memories.
- Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel drizzle over the S’Mores Bars adds a sweet, buttery flavor that everyone will love.
- Chilled Milk: Whether you prefer whole, almond, or oat milk, a cold glass is a classic pairing that enhances the overall enjoyment of your treat.
- Signature Fruit Sorbet: A refreshing fruit sorbet can cleanse the palate, invigorating the taste buds in between indulgent bites of S’Mores Bars.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this tropical twist adds a fluffy touch that elevates the dessert into a tropical paradise.
- Coffee: A cup of strong coffee complements the sweetness of the bars while providing a warm, comforting note to finish your meal.
S’Mores Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of graham cracker crumbs should I use?
You can use store-bought graham cracker crumbs or make your own by crushing whole graham crackers. Both options work beautifully, so choose what’s easier for you!
How long do S’Mores Bars last?
Store your S’Mores Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keeping them sealed helps maintain that gooey texture everyone loves!
Can I freeze S’Mores Bars?
Absolutely! First, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
What if my S’Mores Bars are too gooey?
If your bars are too gooey, it could be due to underbaking. Always check them starting at 30 minutes and bake until they are golden brown on top and set in the center. If you used mini marshmallows instead of marshmallow crème, this can also impact the gooeyness, as mini marshmallows may not melt as uniformly.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend, and make sure your graham cracker crumbs are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful S’Mores Bars!
Irresistibly Gooey Biscoff Brownies for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil, lightly spraying with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and light brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the beaten eggs and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Press half of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
- Spread the marshmallow topping evenly over the crust and sprinkle with milk chocolate chips.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the marshmallow and chocolate layers, leaving some exposed.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan. Lift out using the foil and slice into squares.
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