There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the combination of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows. These classic flavors evoke memories of campfires, family gatherings, and childhood adventures. But what if you could bring that nostalgic taste into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction? Enter S’mores Bars—an easy, gooey, and delicious dessert that brings the classic campfire treat to your table without the need for a fire. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a fun baking activity with kids, or simply craving a sweet treat, these S’mores Bars are sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing your oven first ensures it’s ready when you are. Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and to make for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt. Stir the mixture until it’s well combined, forming a crumbly yet cohesive mixture. This will serve as the foundation of your S’mores Bars.
Step 3: Press the Crust
Once the mixture is well combined, press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to ensure the crust is tightly packed and level. This will give your bars a firm base that holds together after baking.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Chips
Evenly sprinkle the chocolate chips over the graham cracker crust. Ensure that the chocolate covers the crust completely for that rich, gooey chocolate layer in every bite.
Step 5: Top with Mini Marshmallows
Next, layer the mini marshmallows on top of the chocolate chips. Cover the entire surface so that every bite of the bars has that classic S’mores flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the marshmallows as they toast to a golden brown and become gooey. Once the marshmallows reach your desired level of toastiness, remove the pan from the oven.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the S’mores Bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling period is crucial for the bars to set and makes slicing them much easier. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: These S’mores Bars are best enjoyed slightly warm when the chocolate is still melty and the marshmallows are gooey. For an even more decadent experience, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. However, the marshmallows may lose some of their softness when chilled.
Helpful Notes
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: For a finer crust, pulse the graham crackers in a food processor until they turn into fine crumbs. This will create a more cohesive base.
- Chocolate Chips: While semi-sweet chocolate chips are a classic choice, you can experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even a mix for varied flavor.
- Marshmallows: If you love extra gooey bars, feel free to add more marshmallows on top halfway through the baking process for an extra melty layer.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Alton Brown: Suggests using a blowtorch to give the marshmallows an extra toasty finish, mimicking that authentic campfire experience.
- Ina Garten: Recommends adding a pinch of sea salt on top after baking to balance the sweetness and elevate the flavor profile.
- Martha Stewart: Advises letting the bars cool for at least an hour before slicing to ensure they hold their shape and don’t fall apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of chocolate?
- Yes, you can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate chips for different flavors.
- Can I add other toppings?
- Absolutely! Try adding chopped nuts, a drizzle of caramel, or even some crushed candy on top for extra texture and flavor.
- What if I don’t have graham crackers?
- You can use digestive biscuits, crushed pretzels, or even a cookie crust as a substitute for graham crackers.
- Can I make these bars ahead of time?
- Yes, S’mores Bars can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container until ready to serve.
- How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?
- If your marshmallows are browning too quickly, you can cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- To make these bars gluten-free, use gluten-free graham crackers in the crust.
- How can I make the bars more gooey?
- Add extra marshmallows and slightly underbake the bars to keep them ultra-gooey.
- Can I freeze S’mores Bars?
- Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- What size pan can I use if I don’t have a 9×9 pan?
- You can use an 8×8-inch pan for thicker bars or a 9×13-inch pan for thinner bars; adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Can I double the recipe?
- Yes, to double the recipe, simply double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. The baking time might increase slightly, so keep an eye on it.
Conclusion
S’mores Bars are the perfect treat to bring the joys of the campfire into your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dessert that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers delicious results every time. Enjoy the gooey goodness, and don’t forget to get creative with your variations!