Bring the classic campfire treat indoors with these gooey, chocolatey s’mores bars! They feature a buttery graham cracker crust, melty chocolate chips, and toasted marshmallows, all topped with a golden, sweet layer. These bars are easy to make, transport-friendly, and perfect for any gathering or sweet tooth craving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and quick assembly.
- Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- No campfire needed: Enjoy s’mores flavor year-round.
- Perfect texture: A crunchy crust with gooey marshmallow and chocolate layers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Spatula
- Oven mitts
- Knife for cutting bars
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and graham cracker crumbs. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
Step 4: Add Marshmallows and Chocolate
Evenly sprinkle the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips over the baked crust, ensuring good coverage.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In another bowl, beat together the sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the marshmallows and chocolate chips.
Step 6: Bake the Bars
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the marshmallows are melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed for extra gooeyness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes a perfect pairing.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for a few seconds to restore the gooey texture.
Variations
- Peanut Butter S’mores Bars: Add a drizzle of peanut butter or swirl it into the topping before baking.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the marshmallow layer.
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks.
- Salted Caramel S’mores: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the top before baking.
Helpful Notes and Tips
- Pack the crust tightly: Use the back of a measuring cup to press the graham cracker crust firmly for a sturdy base.
- Watch closely while baking: The marshmallows can brown quickly, so check frequently during the final baking stage.
- Cool completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Duff Goldman: “Always use fresh marshmallows—they toast better and won’t clump together.”
- Christina Tosi: “A pinch of flaky sea salt on top before serving balances the sweetness beautifully.”
- Mary Berry: “Line your pan with parchment paper so you can lift the bars out easily for cutting.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, but chop them into smaller pieces for even melting and distribution.
2. What can I use instead of graham crackers?
Digestive biscuits or crushed vanilla wafers are excellent substitutes.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them up to two days in advance and store in an airtight container.
4. How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?
Keep a close eye during the final baking stage. If they brown too quickly, tent the dish with aluminum foil.
5. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
These s’mores bars are a delightful treat that bring the campfire experience indoors. Easy to make and absolutely irresistible, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every gooey bite!
S’mores Bars Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter with the graham cracker crumbs until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Add Marshmallows and Chocolate: Evenly sprinkle the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips over the baked crust.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the marshmallows and chocolate.
- Bake the Bars: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the marshmallows are melted.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your gooey, chocolatey S’mores Bars!
Notes
- Pack the crust tightly: Use the back of a measuring cup to press the graham cracker crust firmly for a sturdy base.
- Watch closely while baking: The marshmallows can brown quickly, so check frequently during the final baking stage.
- Cool completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting to ensure clean slices.