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Campfire S'mores Rice Krispie Treats are a mashup of nostalgic childhood flavors with chewy marshmallow goodness and the promise of gooey chocolate in every bite. When I first brought these to a backyard bonfire they disappeared before the fire was even hot. This recipe captures all the comforts of s'mores and none of the sticky mess so everyone can get that campfire feeling anytime.
My kids beg me to make these for every sleepover and I love how the campfire roasting step makes any gathering feel extra special.
Ingredients
- Butter: adds rich flavor and helps the treats stay soft use high quality unsalted if you can
- Mini marshmallows: create the signature stretchy gooey texture always check that they are fresh and soft not hard or stale
- Vanilla extract: brings out all the best flavors choose pure vanilla for the best taste
- Rice Krispies cereal: gives these treats their iconic crispy chew look for fresh crisp cereal for best results
- Graham crackers: add authentic s'mores crunch break into bite sized pieces for the classic campfire feel
- Semi sweet chocolate chips: bring smooth melty chocolate flavor use your favorite brand for best texture and taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with softened butter or nonstick spray getting into every corner so you can easily lift out the finished treats
- Melt the Butter:
- Place a large heavy pot on low heat and gently melt the stick of butter stirring as needed so it does not brown or burn
- Add Marshmallows:
- Pour in sixteen ounces of mini marshmallows and stir slowly over low heat until seamless gooey and completely melted
- Add Vanilla Extract:
- Take the pot off the heat and add one half teaspoon of vanilla extract stirring very well so that every marshmallow bit is infused with vanilla
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- Immediately add seven cups of rice cereal and two cups of broken graham cracker pieces mix fast but gently to avoid crushing the cereal coat everything with a glossy marshmallow blanket
- Mix in Chocolate Chips and Extra Marshmallows:
- Add one cup of chocolate chips and an extra cup of mini marshmallows at this stage fold them in so that there are ribbons of chocolate and pockets of unmelted marshmallows for that true s'mores effect
- Press into Pan:
- Working quickly scrape the sticky mixture into the prepared pan use a greased spatula or press with wax paper to get an even layer press firmly but do not smash so they stay soft
- Top and Set:
- Sprinkle more chocolate chips and marshmallows over the top press gently to secure in place let the pan cool for one to two hours at room temperature until the bars hold their shape
- Cut and Serve:
- Once fully set slice into big squares for maximum marshmallow pull and rich chocolate pockets serve as is or carefully skewer and roast over the fire for golden toasted edges just like a classic s'more
Graham crackers always remind me of making s'mores with my dad on summer vacation so now I sneak in an extra handful for the crunch every time I make these. My kids love the extra chocolate on top because it melts just enough if you warm them up.
Storage Tips
Store these treats in an airtight container at room temperature and they will stay soft for about a week. If you want to keep them even longer wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months. Let frozen treats come back to room temperature or pop in the microwave for a few seconds for that melty campfire effect.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the semi sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate or dark chocolate if that is your favorite. For a nutty version fold in half a cup of creamy peanut butter or add a cup of chopped roasted nuts for crunch. You can also use gluten free graham crackers and cereal for an allergy sensitive crowd.
Serving Suggestions
You can serve these straight from the pan or make campfire magic by roasting a square over an open flame for crispy edges and a gooey center. Try them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sundae twist or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra flair at a party.
Cultural and Historical Context
These treats blend two iconic American flavors. Rice Krispie treats have been a favorite bake sale treat since the 1930s and s'mores harken back to summer campfires and family vacations. This mashup is all about honoring both and making new campfire memories no matter where you are.
Seasonal Adaptations
During summer serve chilled in bite size pieces for barbecues. In winter wrap up squares to share as holiday gifts. Add crushed peppermint for a festive holiday twist.
Success Stories
A few friends have made these for school bake sales and said they always sell out first. My niece once brought them on a camping trip and even the grown ups ended up fighting over the last piece.
Freezer Meal Conversion
If you want treats ready for a spur of the moment gathering make a double batch cut into squares and freeze in single layers between wax paper. When ready to serve defrost for an hour at room temperature or give them a quick toast over a campfire.
These s'mores rice krispie treats are easy to make ahead and always hit the spot. They are sure to make new family memories wherever you serve them.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How should I store these treats for maximum freshness?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To freeze, wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- → Can I use other types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Semi-sweet is classic, but try milk or dark chocolate chips based on your taste. Chunks or bars also melt well.
- → What’s the best way to reheat for a gooey texture?
Briefly microwave a square for about 10–15 seconds to revive that warm, gooey s’mores sensation. Handle with care, as it can get hot quickly.
- → Are there ways to add extra flavor or crunch?
Mix in peanut butter when melting marshmallows for nutty richness, or fold in chopped nuts like almonds or peanuts for enhanced crunch.
- → How do I keep the mixture from sticking to the pan?
Grease your baking dish well and use a greased spatula or wax paper to press the mixture, ensuring smooth, even bars that don’t stick.
- → Can these be made ahead for gatherings?
Yes! Prepare, cool completely, and cut ahead of time. Store until ready to serve—perfect for parties or campouts.