S’mores Bars Recipe

If you’re craving the joy of a summer campfire treat without the hassle of building a fire, S’mores Bars are your answer. Imagine layers of buttery, golden graham cracker crust, smooth, melted chocolate, and gooey toasted marshmallows all in one oven-baked delight! These bars capture everything you love about classic s’mores, but in a fuss-free, sharable pan you can make at home any time of year. Get ready to indulge—you’re about to fall in love with the easiest, happiest dessert around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of S’mores Bars is just how few ingredients you need for huge flavor. Each one brings its own magic—the classic graham crackers’ crunch, chocolate’s creaminess, and that irresistible marshmallow toastiness all unite for a nostalgic treat.

• Graham cracker crumbs: These form the sturdy, toasty base and capture the signature s’mores flavor in every bite.
• Butter (melted): Rich, melted butter binds the crust together for a decadent texture and heavenly scent in the oven.
• Powdered sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and gives the crust more tenderness and structure.
• Hershey Chocolate Bars: Melty, classic milk chocolate is key for pure s’mores nostalgia—don’t be shy with the chocolate!
• Mini marshmallows: The crowning glory, they toast perfectly on top and deliver that gooey, stretchy s’mores magic.

How to Make S’mores Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees, then grease a 9×13-inch pan with non-stick butter spray. This step sets the foundation for easy release and clean cuts, so don’t skip it.

Step 2: Mix and Press the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine your graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Stir everything together until the crumbs look well-moistened and sandy. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan, then use your fingers to press it firmly and evenly along the bottom and slightly up the sides—this gives that real campfire graham cracker bite and keeps the bars sturdy.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Pop the pan in the oven and bake the crust for 5 to 8 minutes, just until you see the edges starting to turn a little golden. It’ll seem soft at first, but don’t worry—the crust will firm up as it cools. Let it cool for a few minutes before moving on.

Step 4: Layer with Chocolate

Now, unwrap those Hershey bars and lay them on top of your cooled graham cracker crust. Try to cover the base as much as possible—break a few pieces if you need to fit the corners. Place the pan back in the oven for about 3 minutes, just until the chocolate starts to melt and gleam.

Step 5: Marshmallow Time!

Let the pan cool for 1 to 2 minutes, then scatter a generous layer of mini marshmallows over the melted chocolate. Pack them in as snugly as possible for that luscious, puffy topping—this is where the S’mores Bars get their signature look.

Step 6: Broil—and Watch Closely

Set your oven to broil, then slide the pan back in. Now’s the moment to give the bars your undivided attention—marshmallows go from golden to burnt in seconds! Watch intently; as soon as they’re golden brown and toasty on top (about 2 minutes), pull them out.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the S’mores Bars cool completely; they’re easier to cut when chilled. If you have the patience, pop the pan in the fridge for an hour to firm them up. When you’re ready to slice, run a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and make your cuts—repeat as needed if things get sticky! Serve and enjoy every gooey, melty, perfectly layered bite.

How to Serve S’mores Bars

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a grown-up twist, drizzle with a swirl of chocolate sauce, or scatter extra crushed graham crackers on top for extra crunch. If you’re feeling bold, a few chocolate sprinkles or even a dollop of whipped cream can send your S’mores Bars over the top.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of cold vanilla ice cream or a tall glass of milk for the ultimate sweet treat. Try them alongside fresh berries for a summery contrast or serve with coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut S’mores Bars into small squares and arrange them on a rustic wooden board for a backyard-campfire vibe, or stack them with parchment paper in between for a picnic-style dessert. For parties, you can even skewer each square with a decorative toothpick for easy grab-and-go fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover S’mores Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, you can transfer them to the fridge to prevent chocolate melt and keep them firm.

Freezing

Absolutely, you can freeze S’mores Bars! Simply wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Let them thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before serving for best texture.

Reheating

For that just-baked gooeyness, pop a bar in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds—they’ll taste like they’re fresh out of the oven, with the chocolate and marshmallows melting into perfection.

FAQs

Can I use chocolate chips instead of Hershey bars?

Yes! While Hershey bars give that nostalgic s’mores taste, high-quality milk chocolate chips will melt beautifully and taste just as delicious in S’mores Bars.

What’s the best way to cut S’mores Bars without making a sticky mess?

Chill the bars well before cutting, then use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry. This helps the blade glide neatly through all those sticky, gooey layers.

Can I make S’mores Bars ahead of time?

Definitely—S’mores Bars taste great the next day! Just store them covered and, if possible, wait to add marshmallows and broil until close to serving for the freshest toastiness.

Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini ones?

Mini marshmallows cover the top more evenly and melt faster, but you can cut large marshmallows in half or quarters if needed. Just pack them tightly so you get that perfect toasted top.

Are S’mores Bars gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can easily swap in gluten-free graham crackers to make these bars safe for gluten-sensitive friends—just check your chocolate and marshmallows are gluten-free, too.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so universally joyful about pulling a tray of S’mores Bars from the oven and sharing them with family and friends. Whether you’re reliving summer nights or bringing the magic of s’mores indoors on a rainy day, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So go ahead—whip up a batch and make some delicious memories!

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