S’more Bars are an incredible treat that encapsulates the essence of summer and campfire gatherings—all wrapped up in a deliciously gooey and crispy dessert. If you adore the classic combination of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows, then get ready to indulge in these amazing S’more Bars. This recipe combines convenience, flavor, and nostalgia, serving as a delightful reminder of nights spent around the campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories with friends and family. Not only are these bars easy to make, but they also promise to bring joy and smiles to everyone who takes a bite.
Imagine biting into a rich chocolate layer surrounded by soft marshmallows and a crispy graham cracker crust, all enhanced by the warm, buttery flavors that make S’mores a beloved favorite. Each bar offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, ensuring that every slice is just as satisfying as the last. These S’more Bars aren’t just desserts; they’re a festive experience that can be enjoyed on special occasions or simply as a delightful everyday indulgence.
Let’s explore why S’more Bars should be on your baking list, how to prepare them, the ingredients you’ll need, and the simple steps to create this extraordinary treat that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore S’more Bars, and the unique combination of flavors and textures is just the beginning. Here are several more reasons why this recipe will win your heart:
1. Easy to Make: The straightforward preparation keeps the process enjoyable and stress-free.
2. No Campfire Required: Enjoy the classic S’more flavors without requiring any outdoor setup or fire.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: These bars are perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or even family movie nights.
4. Customizable: You can tweak ingredients based on your preferences, like using vegan chocolate or gluten-free graham crackers.
5. Make Ahead: They store well and can be made days in advance, allowing for stress-free entertaining.
6. Kid-Friendly: Both kids and adults will love indulging in this nostalgic treat, making it a great family dessert.
With all these reasons supporting the charm of S’more Bars, it’s clear why they should become a staple in your kitchen.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Creating S’more Bars is surprisingly quick! Here’s a breakdown to help you organize your baking time:
– Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
– Cooling Time: 30-60 minutes (depending on your patience!)
Overall, you can have these bars ready to enjoy within about an hour and a half, including cooling time.
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 2 cups mini marshmallows
– Additional chocolate chips for topping (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making S’more Bars is as easy as following these simple steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time and mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
6. Add Graham Cracker Crumbs: Fold in the graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chips, and marshmallows until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
7. Pour into Pan: Evenly spread the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out with a spatula.
8. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Cool: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. For easier cutting, transfer to the refrigerator to cool further if desired.
10. Cut and Serve: Once cooled, cut the bars into squares and serve. Optionally, top with extra chocolate chips for an appealing finish.
Enjoy the delightful creation of S’more Bars made fresh right in your kitchen!
How to Serve
Serving S’more Bars can elevate the experience for you and your guests. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Presentation: Arrange the bars on a decorative platter, possibly garnishing with more mini marshmallows or chocolate chips for flair.
2. Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside scoops of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of hot fudge for an indulgent treat.
3. Occasions: These bars are perfect for summer barbecues, birthday parties, or holiday gatherings. You can also package them as sweet gifts for loved ones.
4. Storage: Store leftover bars in an air-tight container at room temperature for up to a week, but they are best enjoyed fresh!
By keeping these serving tips in mind, your S’more Bars will provide a wonderful experience that everyone will remember and crave, making them an extraordinary addition to your repertoire of desserts. With their rich flavor and nostalgic background, you will find that S’more Bars are far more than just a simple treat; they are a delightful way to share joy with those you love!
Additional Tips
– Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best results, ensure that your ingredients, especially marshmallows and chocolate, are fresh. This will enhance the overall flavor of your S’more Bars.
– Mind the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Ovens can vary, so check the bars a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
– Let Them Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set and makes for cleaner slices.
– Serve Warm: For an extra treat, try serving S’more Bars warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The combination is heavenly!
– Experiment with Mix-Ins: Consider adding nuts or butterscotch chips for a delightful twist. This alteration can add another layer of flavor and texture.
Recipe Variation
Feel free to customize your S’more Bars by trying out these variations:
1. Double Chocolate Version: Use chocolate graham crackers instead of regular ones for an intensified chocolate flavor.
2. Nutty Delight: Add some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the batter for some crunch.
3. Vegan Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use flaxseed meal instead of eggs to create a vegan-friendly version.
4. Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl some creamy peanut butter through the batter before baking for a delicious peanut butter twist.
5. Caramel Surprise: Add a layer of caramel sauce between the graham cracker crust and the chocolate layer for a decadent addition.
Freezing and Storage
– Storage: To keep your S’more Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They taste best within the first few days.
– Freezing: You can freeze S’more Bars for up to three months. Cut them into squares and wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave.
Special Equipment
While preparing S’more Bars doesn’t require fancy tools, a few essential items will make the process smoother:
– Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl for mixing batter and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
– 9×13-inch Baking Pan: This is the perfect size for baking your S’more Bars.
– Spatula: A rubber spatula helps to spread the batter evenly in the pan.
– Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results.
– Parchment Paper: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper assists in easy removal and cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, you can use regular marshmallows. Just be aware that they may require slightly longer to melt.
What should I do if my bars are too crumbly?
If your bars come out crumbly, they may have been overbaked or there wasn’t enough moisture. Ensure all measurements are accurate, and consider adding a touch more butter or marshmallows next time.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate to cater to your taste preferences.
How do I know if the bars are done baking?
Look for golden brown edges and a center that is slightly firm. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour and graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives to suit your dietary needs.
Conclusion
S’more Bars are more than just a simple dessert; they’re a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer memories. With their perfect combination of flavors and textures, they promise to bring joy to any gathering. Whether for a party, family movie night, or just because, these bars are sure to impress everyone. Try making S’more Bars today and enjoy the deliciousness that comes with every gooey, chocolatey bite!
S’more Bars: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Delight
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 2 cups mini marshmallows
– Additional chocolate chips for topping (optional)
Instructions
Making S’more Bars is as easy as following these simple steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time and mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
6. Add Graham Cracker Crumbs: Fold in the graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chips, and marshmallows until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
7. Pour into Pan: Evenly spread the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out with a spatula.
8. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Cool: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. For easier cutting, transfer to the refrigerator to cool further if desired.
10. Cut and Serve: Once cooled, cut the bars into squares and serve. Optionally, top with extra chocolate chips for an appealing finish.
Enjoy the delightful creation of S’more Bars made fresh right in your kitchen!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 bars
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g