These irresistible S’mores Bars bring the beloved campfire treat right to your kitchen in just 45 minutes. Featuring layers of buttery graham cracker crust, rich chocolate, and gooey marshmallows, this dessert captures all the nostalgic flavors without the campfire.
Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or satisfying your sweet tooth any day of the week. Each decadent square packs the perfect balance of crunch and melt-in-your-mouth goodness that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients for Heavenly S’mores Bars
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups, measured correctly for the perfect base
- Graham cracker crumbs: 2 cups from about 16 crackers, finely crushed
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon for proper rise
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon to enhance flavors
- Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened to room temperature
- Light brown sugar: 1 1/2 cups, packed for caramel notes
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for warmth
- Eggs: 2 large, at room temperature
- Marshmallow creme: 7 ounces for gooey goodness
- Chocolate bars: 3 (4.4 ounce) Hershey’s bars or 2 1/2 cups chips
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare your 9×13 pan with grease or parchment
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Combine flour, graham crumbs, baking powder, and salt
- Cream Base: Beat butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla
- Combine: Mix in dry ingredients until just combined
- Layer Base: Press half the dough into prepared pan evenly
- Add Marshmallow: Dollop and spread marshmallow creme (tip: use hot water-dipped spoon)
- Chocolate Layer: Add chocolate pieces or chips evenly
- Top Layer: Cover with remaining dough pieces, creating even layer
- Bake: 28-32 minutes until golden brown
- Finish: Cool completely before cutting into squares
Baking Tips for Perfect S’mores Bars
Hey there, baker! These S’mores Bars can be extra amazing with a few simple tips. Press the bottom layer firmly and evenly – I like using the bottom of a measuring cup for this.
When working with marshmallow creme, keep a glass of hot water nearby for your spoon – it makes spreading so much easier! For the top layer, don’t worry if it’s not perfect – those little gaps will create lovely spots where the marshmallow peeks through.
Easy Variations
Love classic s’mores but want to mix it up? Try using different chocolate varieties – dark chocolate adds richness, while peanut butter cups bring a whole new twist! You can also swap regular graham crackers for cinnamon or chocolate ones. For extra texture, try sprinkling some mini chocolate chips on top before baking.
Storage Tips
These bars stay fresh at room temperature for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. While they’re amazing warm, letting them cool completely helps them cut more cleanly.
If you need them to last longer, pop them in the fridge for up to a week – just bring to room temperature before eating for the best texture.
Serving Ideas
These bars are wonderful on their own, but try warming them up for 10-15 seconds in the microwave for that fresh-from-the-oven feel. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra special dessert. They’re perfect for bake sales, picnics, or any gathering where you want to bring the campfire feeling indoors!
S’mores Bars
Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Electric mixer
Ingredients
Base and Topping
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs about 16 full crackers
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter 2 sticks, softened
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 7 ounces marshmallow creme or fluff
- 3 Hershey’s chocolate bars 4.4 ounce each, or 2 ½ cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13” baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl combine the flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs and vanilla and beat until well combined.
- Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the flour mixture, mixing until combined.
- Press half of the dough mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Dollop marshmallow creme on top and gently spread into an even layer. If the marshmallow creme gets really sticky you can dip your spoon in hot water (shake off excess water) and it will help to spread.
- Break the chocolate bars into pieces and layer over the marshmallow (or sprinkle with chocolate chips).
- Place small pieces of dough all over the top, flattening into an even layer as best you can.
- Bake for 28-32 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely before cutting and serving.
