Classic S’mores Bars
Introduction
A few summer nights spent camping in the woods conjure up memories of gathering around the crackling campfire with friends, roasting marshmallows to golden perfection and sandwiching them between crunchy graham crackers and rich chocolate. These timeless S’mores are not just a dessert; they encapsulate the warmth of friendship and the bliss of nature. Inspired by those nostalgic evenings, I created a recipe for Classic S’mores Bars that captures the essence of that experience, all in a convenient, shareable form. With every bite of these chewy and crunchy bars, you’ll be transported back to those summer nights, evoking warmth and laughter.
What makes these S’mores Bars truly special is their ability to bring loved ones together, whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy night in, or a festive celebration. They embody the carefree joy of summer, but with the flexibility to be enjoyed any time of year!
What Makes This Recipe Special
These Classic S’mores Bars stand out for their perfect blend of textures and flavors think crunchy, gooey, and sweet all in one bite. Not only are they a step-up from traditional S’mores, but they are also quick to prepare, making them a great choice for busy families or last-minute gatherings. You’ll appreciate how easy they come together, with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work. Readers of all ages will love this dessert, as it’s ideal for satisfying cravings for something sweet without the fuss of camping.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips (or semi-sweet for a richer taste)
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup chopped chocolate bars (optional)
When selecting ingredients, try to use high-quality chocolate for a richer flavor, and consider toasting the marshmallows slightly for extra depth.
How to make Classic S’mores Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars will bake evenly, resulting in a perfect gooey texture.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until well blended. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Layer the Base
Spread half of the dough into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, pressing it evenly to create a solid base.
Step 5: Add the Filling
Evenly sprinkle the milk chocolate chips and mini marshmallows over the base. If desired, add chopped chocolate bars for an extra layer of richness.
Step 6: Top with Remaining Dough
Dollop the remaining dough on top of the filling, spreading it gently to cover it as best as you can. It’s okay if some of the filling is still visible!
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is a lovely golden brown and the bars are set.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool in the dish for at least 20 minutes before cutting them into squares. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle.
Tips & Recipe Variations
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
- Substitutions: If you’re out of graham crackers, feel free to use digestive biscuits, which can offer a similar sweet, crunchy base.
- Variations: Consider adding peanut butter chips or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a tropical twist. Swap out chocolate for caramel for a tasty variation that puts a unique spin on the classic flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and graham cracker alternatives for a gluten-free version without compromising flavor!
How to Serve
These Classic S’mores Bars are best enjoyed warm, when the chocolate is still melty. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast, or serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat. Consider presenting them on a rustic wooden platter for a charming touch, adding some fresh berries or drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the top for a decadent finish.
Common Questions
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling in advance and bake them just before serving.
- Can I freeze the leftovers?
- Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing. They can last up to three months.
- What can I use instead of graham crackers?
- As mentioned earlier, digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafers work well as substitutes!
- How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
- Make sure to properly drain any melted marshmallows and be cautious not to overbake, as this will help maintain the bar’s structure.
- Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?
- Indeed! Use dairy-free chocolate and a plant-based butter substitute to fit dietary preferences.
Conclusion
These Classic S’mores Bars hold a special place in my heart as they carry the sweet memory of shared laughter and joy. The crunchy, soft, and gooey elements create a dessert that is not only comforting but also offers lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you’re revisiting nostalgic campfire moments or introducing this delightful treat to a new generation, I encourage you to try making these bars and share your experiences. They are bound to become a favorite in your household too!
“Absolutely delicious! Every bite takes me back to summer nights around the campfire. These bars are the perfect blend of crunch, gooeyness, and rich chocolate flavor. I can’t keep my family away from them!”
Classic S’mores Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until well blended.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Spread half of the dough into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, pressing it evenly to create a solid base.
- Evenly sprinkle the milk chocolate chips and mini marshmallows over the base. If desired, add chopped chocolate bars.
- Dollop the remaining dough on top of the filling, spreading it gently to cover it as best as you can.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bars are set.
- Allow the bars to cool in the dish for at least 20 minutes before cutting them into squares.
Notes
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