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If you have ever missed the fireside nostalgia of a classic s’more but wanted something shareable and truly indulgent S’mores Bars capture that flavor in every bite. Imagine chewy cookie dough mingling with graham cracker softness plus rich melted chocolate blanketed with toasty marshmallow. These bars are a picnic favorite for my family and every summer gathering turns into a demand for this gooey treat.
My first time baking these I was skeptical about them matching up to real campfire s’mores but one bite transported me straight back to those starry nights The marshmallow ribbon in the middle is now the highlight no one wants to miss
Ingredients
- Butter: softened for richness and moisture seek out high quality for extra creaminess
- Sugar and brown sugar: contribute chew and caramel flavor which is key to the soft bar texture
- Eggs: for structure and a tender crumb farm fresh gives the best result
- Vanilla extract: deepens the sweet notes pure vanilla is a must
- All purpose flour: forms the base go for unbleached flour for better flavor
- Graham crackers: crushed for signature s’mores flavor choose a classic honey graham for authenticity
- Baking soda and baking powder: balanced for lift and tenderness check freshness for reliable rise
- Salt: sharpens flavors and keeps the bars from being too sweet use fine sea salt if possible
- King size milk chocolate bars: create classic meltiness Hershey’s is traditional but any creamy bar will work
- Marshmallow cream: gives that unmistakable gooey layer fluffier versions give best spreadability
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Spray a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal. Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees so it is hot when you are ready to bake.
- Make the Cookie Dough Base:
- In a large mixing bowl cream together the softened butter with white and brown sugars. Keep mixing for several minutes until light and fluffy since this builds the foundation of texture. Beat in eggs and vanilla which enriches and flavors the dough turn your mixer to low and slowly add these in until everything looks smooth and creamy.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk together flour finely crushed graham cracker crumbs baking soda baking powder and salt. Make sure the graham crackers are a fine even crumb so they blend into the dough seamlessly. Slowly pour the dry mix into your wet batter mixing on low until just combined Avoid overmixing so the bars stay tender.
- Layer the Base:
- Press two thirds of your cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Press flat with your hands or a spatula so the edges are not higher than the center This helps the bars bake evenly.
- Add the Chocolate Layer:
- Lay the unwrapped king size chocolate bars evenly across the dough Next slightly melt the marshmallow cream so it is easy to spread then carefully spread it over the chocolate Take your time to avoid pulling up the chocolate or base.
- Top With More Dough:
- Break the remaining dough into small pieces Flatten them between your palms and scatter over the marshmallow cream so patches of marshmallow peek through This forms pretty golden pockets after baking.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for thirty to forty minutes watching that the dough on top turns golden brown and the center no longer appears wet Slight bubbling from the marshmallow is normal Let the bars cool completely so they set properly and do not fall apart when sliced
The marshmallow cream layer is my favorite because it creates sticky pockets that roast perfectly under the oven heat I will never forget the first time I let my daughter swirl it on herself and laugh as it pulled into shiny ribbons This step makes these bars extra special for us
Storage Tips
To keep your s’mores bars soft store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days Stack with parchment between layers to avoid sticking If you want extra chewiness pop a slice in the microwave for eight seconds before eating
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap your favorite milk chocolate for dark or use half and half for a twist If you are short on marshmallow cream regular large marshmallows can work cut them in half and pack tightly so there are no gaps For gluten free needs use certified gluten free graham crackers and all purpose flour blends
Serving Suggestions
S’mores bars are irresistible at room temp but for a warm gooey treat serve slightly heated with a scoop of vanilla ice cream Cut into smaller cubes for party platters or lunchbox treats and save edges for snacking
Cultural and Historical Context
S’mores trace back to American scouting cookouts in the 1920s where the combo of chocolate marshmallow and graham cracker got its name from campers always begging for some more These bars capture that iconic trio in portable form perfect for when a fire is not possible
Seasonal Adaptations
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon in the winter for a cozy flavor Dot with fresh raspberries in summer for a fruity pop Use pumpkin spice blend in the dough for autumn gatherings
Success Stories
My neighbor made these s’mores bars for her daughter’s birthday and they disappeared faster than anything else on the table Several friends have adapted them with peanut butter cups or peppermint patties for fun twists Each time I bring them to a potluck someone stops me for the recipe
Freezer Meal Conversion
S’mores bars freeze surprisingly well Slice them after cooling and wrap tightly in plastic then foil or zip top bags Freeze up to two months and thaw on the counter Whenever I stash a batch away they are gone in days
Every time I bake these bars the kitchen fills with the aroma of campfire treats and family laughter. One slice and you will see why they are a staple at every gathering in our home.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep the bars from sticking to the pan?
It's best to coat your baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.
- → Can I substitute marshmallow cream with regular marshmallows?
Yes, mini marshmallows can be used in place of cream, but they may melt differently. Spread them evenly for best texture.
- → What type of chocolate works best?
Milk chocolate bars melt smoothly for a classic taste, but dark or semi-sweet chocolate can be used for a richer flavor.
- → Are these bars best served warm or at room temperature?
They're delicious both ways! Enjoy slightly warm for extra gooeyness or let cool for firmer slices and neater serving.
- → How should I store leftover bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.