S’mores Bars: The Ultimate Campfire-Inspired Dessert
Few treats capture the essence of summer like s’mores—the perfect combination of gooey marshmallows, melty chocolate, and crispy graham crackers, enjoyed around a crackling campfire. But what if you could enjoy that same indulgent flavor without the need for a fire? Enter S’mores Bars—a delightful, no-bake twist on the classic treat, perfect for satisfying your s’mores cravings year-round.
These S’mores Bars take all the best elements of the beloved campfire snack and transform them into a simple, no-fuss dessert. A buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy layer of sweetened condensed milk, smooth milk chocolate chips, and fluffy marshmallows come together in a mouthwatering combination that’s both nostalgic and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a family gathering, or just need a quick and easy treat for the weekend, these S’mores Bars are sure to please everyone.
History of S’mores:
S’mores, short for “Some More,” have been a beloved campfire treat for over a century. Though the exact origins of s’mores are debated, they’re widely believed to have first appeared in the 1927 Girl Scouts’ cookbook Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts. The treat was originally made by simply roasting marshmallows over a fire and then sandwiching them between two pieces of chocolate and graham crackers.
The combination of sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy is what has made s’mores a classic, whether enjoyed around a campfire, at a backyard BBQ, or even at cozy winter gatherings. As time went on, bakers and home chefs began experimenting with ways to turn the beloved treat into bar form, and S’mores Bars became a popular variation for its convenience and delicious simplicity.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted (for the graham cracker crust)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (this will form the base of the bars)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for sweetness)
- 1/8 teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk (the creamy binder that holds everything together)
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips (for that signature smooth, melty chocolate)
- 2 cups mini marshmallows (the gooey, puffy topping)
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers (for sprinkling on top and extra crunch)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the bars from sticking. In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and salt until everything is well combined. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a solid crust.
2. Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk:
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust. This layer will add richness and act as a glue for the chocolate chips and marshmallows.
3. Layer the Chocolate Chips:
Sprinkle the milk chocolate chips evenly over the condensed milk layer. The chocolate will melt into the condensed milk as the bars bake, creating a smooth, creamy filling.
4. Bake the Bars:
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges of the crust begin to brown and the chocolate is slightly melted. The filling should appear set, but still soft and gooey in the center.
5. Add the Marshmallows:
Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and puffy. Be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Top with Crushed Graham Crackers:
Once the marshmallows are golden and delicious, remove the pan from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the crushed graham crackers over the top for added crunch and a final touch of graham flavor.
7. Cool and Slice:
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. For cleaner cuts, you can place the pan in the refrigerator for at least an hour before slicing into squares. This also helps the bars firm up and set.
Methods for Formation:
- Crust Base: For the perfect graham cracker crust, ensure you press the crumbs down firmly into the pan. The more tightly packed the crust, the less likely it is to crumble when you cut into the bars later.
- Chocolate Layer: If you like a thicker chocolate layer, feel free to add more chocolate chips (up to 2 ½ cups), or even layer in some chopped chocolate bars for extra richness.
- Marshmallow Topping: Don’t be afraid to let the marshmallows get a little golden-brown—this adds a toasty flavor that complements the sweetness of the chocolate and graham crackers.
- Add-ins: For a twist on the classic, try adding chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) to the chocolate layer, or even swirl in some peanut butter for a creamy, salty contrast.
Quick Facts:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
- Cool Time: 1 hour (optional, for cleaner cuts)
- Servings: Makes about 12-16 bars
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per bar (depending on size)
Conclusion:
S’mores Bars are the perfect way to enjoy the beloved flavors of a campfire favorite without needing a fire at all. With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy sweetened condensed milk, smooth milk chocolate, and gooey marshmallows, each bite delivers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors that will have you reaching for another square.
These bars are a great way to bring a bit of the outdoors inside, whether you’re at a summer BBQ, a cozy winter gathering, or simply looking for an easy dessert to bring to a potluck. They’re quick to prepare, and their nostalgic flavor is sure to remind everyone of their favorite childhood campfire memories.
For the Lovers of S’mores: If you’re a die-hard fan of classic s’mores, these bars are the next best thing—and possibly even better. They have all the charm of the original treat, but they’re even easier to share with friends and family. Plus, you can enjoy them in the comfort of your home without the hassle of roasting marshmallows! For those who love to experiment, these bars can be customized with different types of chocolate (dark, white, or even caramel), or with fun toppings like crushed candies or swirls of peanut butter. Whichever way you make them, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for:
- Summer BBQs: Serve them as a no-fuss dessert after grilled burgers or hot dogs.
- Holiday Treats: A great way to make a “s’mores” experience indoors during the colder months.
- Family Gatherings: Everyone, from kids to adults, will love the nostalgic flavors and fun presentation.