S’mores Bar Recipe
S’mores Bar Recipe is the perfect treat that captures the essence of summer s’mores, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dessert all year long. With layers of gooey chocolate, crunchy graham cracker crust, and fluffy toasted marshmallows, these bars are a hit at parties, family gatherings, or cozy nights in. Plus, they are easy to make and require minimal effort!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This S’mores Bar Recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake, making it an ideal last-minute dessert.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Everyone loves s’mores! This recipe is a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen.
- Versatile Dessert: You can customize your S’mores Bars with different chocolates or toppings for unique flavors.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a winter gathering, these bars fit right in.
- Easy Storage: S’mores Bars can be made ahead of time and stored for days without losing their deliciousness.
Tools and Preparation
To create your delectable S’mores Bars, you’ll need a few essential tools. Gathering everything beforehand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick butter spray
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Medium mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Oven mitts
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick butter spray: Ensures your S’mores Bars come out easily without sticking to the pan.
- 9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for achieving even baking and easy serving.
- Medium mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients without splashing or spilling.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for this delightful S’mores Bar Recipe:
For the Crust
- 2 Cups graham cracker crumbs
- 8-12 Tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1/2 Cup powdered sugar
For the Topping
- 4 Hershey Chocolate Bar (use 4.4 ounce bars)
- 1 package mini marshmallows
How to Make S’mores Bar Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for ensuring even baking.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Grease your 9×13 pan with non-stick butter spray. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier later.
Step 3: Mix the Crust Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Combine graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and melted butter using a spoon until well mixed.
2. Distribute this mixture evenly across the bottom and sides of the prepared baking pan. Press down firmly with your fingers to pack it.
Step 4: Bake the Crust
Place the pan in the oven and bake for approximately 5-8 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown color on the edges. Remember, it will harden as it cools.
Step 5: Cool the Crust
Remove from oven and let it cool completely before adding chocolate.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Bars
Lay the Hershey bars on top of the cooled graham cracker crust, covering it as completely as possible.
Step 7: Melt Chocolate
Return the pan to the oven for about 3 minutes until the chocolate starts melting and looks shiny.
Step 8: Cool Briefly
Let it cool for just 1-2 minutes before moving on to add marshmallows.
Step 9: Add Marshmallows
Pack the top with mini marshmallows closely together over melted chocolate.
Step 10: Broil Marshmallows
Set your oven to broil and put the pan back in. Watch carefully; they only need about 2 minutes until they brown nicely! Remove them as soon as you see browning.
Step 11: Final Cooling
Allow them to cool completely before cutting (placing them in the refrigerator after initial cooling helps set them).
Step 12: Cut and Serve
Cut into squares for serving. If they become sticky while cutting, warm your knife under hot water before slicing again.
Enjoy these tasty S’mores Bars at any gathering or simply as a sweet treat at home!
How to Serve S’mores Bar Recipe
S’mores Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy night at home, these serving suggestions will make your S’mores Bars even more enjoyable.
Individual Portions
- Use small dessert cups to serve individual pieces of S’mores Bars. This makes it easy for guests to grab and go.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Serve warm S’mores Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold ice cream melts slightly, creating a delicious contrast.
Drizzle of Chocolate
- Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup over the top of the S’mores Bars for extra sweetness and flavor. It enhances the chocolatey goodness!
Fruit Accompaniments
- Offer fresh berries or sliced bananas on the side. They add freshness and balance out the richness of the bars.
S’mores Bar Station
- Create a DIY S’mores station with additional toppings like nuts, caramel sauce, or flavored marshmallows. Guests can customize their treats.
Coffee or Hot Cocoa
- Pair your S’mores Bars with coffee or hot cocoa for a warm, comforting drink option that complements the dessert perfectly.
How to Perfect S’mores Bar Recipe
To achieve the ultimate S’mores Bar experience, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh graham crackers and mini marshmallows enhance flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip cooling time – Allowing the bars to cool completely helps them set better, making them easier to cut.
- Watch the broiling closely – Marshmallows can burn quickly under high heat; stay nearby while broiling to prevent mishaps.
- Experiment with toppings – Try adding peanut butter or Nutella for an extra twist on classic flavors.
- Store properly – Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.
- Cut with care – Use a warm knife for clean cuts; this prevents sticky messes while slicing your delicious bars.
Best Side Dishes for S’mores Bar Recipe
Complement your S’mores Bars with these delightful side dishes that enhance any gathering.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the bars.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These sweet treats mirror the chocolate in the bars and add elegance.
- Popcorn – Offer some buttery or caramel popcorn as a crunchy snack that pairs nicely with dessert.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses adds savory notes and contrasts well with sweet flavors.
- Mini Cupcakes – Serve bite-sized cupcakes in various flavors for an appealing assortment alongside your bars.
- Chips and Salsa – For those who prefer savory snacks, salty chips with fresh salsa provide a fun contrast.
- Pineapple Skewers – Grilled or fresh pineapple skewers add a tropical touch that’s refreshing after rich desserts.
- Yogurt Parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a lighter option that still feels indulgent.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
S’mores Bars are simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using stale graham crackers – Always check that your graham crackers are fresh. Stale crackers can ruin the crust’s texture.
- Not packing the crust firmly – If you don’t press the graham cracker mixture down tightly, it may crumble when cutting. Ensure you pack it firmly into the pan.
- Overbaking the crust – Keep a close eye on the baking time. If overbaked, the crust can become too hard and difficult to cut.
- Ignoring the broiling stage – Marshmallows should be watched closely while broiling. Don’t leave them unattended; they can burn quickly.
- Skipping cooling time – Allow your bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing S’mores Bar Recipe
- Wrap bars in plastic wrap and then foil for best protection.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating S’mores Bar Recipe
- Oven – Preheat at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat individual servings for 10-15 seconds until soft.
- Stovetop – Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, cover with a lid for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the S’mores Bar Recipe:
What is a S’mores Bar Recipe?
A S’mores Bar Recipe combines layers of graham cracker crust, melted chocolate, and toasted marshmallows into a delightful dessert bar.
Can I customize my S’mores Bars?
Yes! Feel free to add ingredients like peanut butter cups or flavored chocolate for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
How do I store leftover S’mores Bars?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham crackers in your S’mores Bar Recipe for a delicious alternative.
How do I cut sticky S’mores Bars easily?
Warm a sharp knife under hot water and dry it off before cutting. This method helps prevent sticking while slicing.
Final Thoughts
This S’mores Bar Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste. Whether it’s summer or winter, this treat brings joy and comfort any time of year. Try making these bars today and enjoy a slice of nostalgia!
S’mores Bar Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the nostalgic flavors of summer with this easy S’mores Bar Recipe. Combining layers of rich chocolate, crunchy graham cracker crust, and fluffy toasted marshmallows, these bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed year-round. Perfect for family gatherings, parties, or cozy nights in, they require minimal effort and are sure to impress your guests. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a mere 15 minutes of baking, you can create a dessert that brings joy and satisfaction to any occasion. Customize your bars with your favorite chocolate or toppings for an extra special touch!
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 8–12 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 4 Hershey Chocolate Bars (4.4 ounces each)
- 1 package mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick butter spray.
- In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan.
- Bake crust for 5-8 minutes until golden brown; let cool completely.
- Lay Hershey bars on the cooled crust; return to oven for 3 minutes until melted.
- Pack mini marshmallows over melted chocolate; broil for 2 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (about 50g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
