Imagine a dessert that combines the classic campfire treat with the convenience of a baked bar. This recipe transforms s’mores into a delicious, easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion. With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, you can enjoy this treat at home without the need for a campfire.
The recipe uses simple ingredients like graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter for the base. It’s quick to prepare and bakes in a 9×13-inch pan, yielding 24 servings. The combination of chocolate chips and marshmallows creates a sweet, gooey texture that’s hard to resist.
Each serving contains 212 calories, making it a satisfying yet manageable treat. The best part? You can customize it to your taste by using different types of chocolate or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a quick dessert, this recipe is sure to please.
Key Takeaways
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 24
- Calories per serving: 212
- Easy to customize with different chocolate types
Ingredients and Tools
Creating delicious marshmallow chocolate bars at home requires the right ingredients and tools. This section outlines everything you need to get started.
Essential Ingredients
To make these tasty bars, you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup white sugar
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 3 cups miniature marshmallows
These ingredients create a perfect balance of flavors and textures, from the crunchy base to the gooey marshmallow topping.
Required Kitchen Tools
Ensure you have these tools on hand:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Medium mixing bowl
- Sp spatula
- Oven
These tools help you mix, bake, and serve the bars efficiently.
| Ingredient/Tool | Measurement/Description |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup |
| White Sugar | ⅓ cup |
| Graham Cracker Crumbs | 3 cups |
| Semisweet Chocolate Chips | 2 cups |
| Miniature Marshmallows | 3 cups |
| 9×13-inch Baking Dish | For baking |
| Medium Mixing Bowl | For mixing |
| Sp spatula | For spreading |
| Oven | For baking |
Precise measurements and quality ingredients are key to achieving the best results. Each component plays a vital role in the texture and flavor of the final dessert. With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to create a treat that captures the essence of campfire s’mores in a convenient bar form.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Making these delicious bars is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Crumb Mixture Assembly
In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, and graham cracker crumbs. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press half of this mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to form a firm base.
Layering Chocolate and Marshmallows
Evenly distribute semisweet chocolate chips and marshmallows over the crust. This layer adds the sweetness and texture that makes these bars irresistible.
Baking Instructions
Top the layered ingredients with the remaining crumb mixture, smoothing it with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, until marshmallows are melted and lightly toasted. Allow the dessert to cool completely before cutting into squares for the best texture.
Remember to keep an eye on the oven to prevent over-browning. Letting the bars cool ensures they hold together perfectly when cut. Enjoy the gooey, melted chocolate and marshmallow combination in every bite!
Perfecting graham cracker marshmallow chocolate Bars
The secret to creating irresistible marshmallow chocolate bars lies in mastering texture and flavor balance. By blending the gooeyness of marshmallows with the crunch of a graham cracker base and the richness of chocolate, you can craft a dessert that feels both nostalgic and modern.
Achieving the Right Texture
To get that perfect texture, press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the pan to create a stable base. For an extra-crispy crust, bake it for a few minutes before adding the marshmallows and chocolate. If you prefer a chewier texture, bake the bars for a shorter time, keeping the marshmallows soft and the chocolate melted just enough to bind everything together.
For a golden-brown finish, broil the marshmallows for about 30 seconds after baking. This step adds a nice textural contrast and visual appeal to the bars.
Balancing the Flavors
The key to a great taste is balancing sweetness and saltiness. The graham cracker base provides a subtle saltiness, while the marshmallows and chocolate add sweetness. To enhance the flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the bars before baking.
Experiment with different types of chocolate, like milk or dark, to find your favorite flavor profile. This simple tweak can make the bars more indulgent or refreshing, depending on your preference.
Remember, the perfect bar is all about harmony—crunchy, chewy, sweet, and salty all in one bite. With a little practice, you’ll get the balance just right!
Tips, Variations, and Alternatives
Looking to give your marshmallow bars a personal twist? This section shares creative ideas to make your dessert truly unique.
Creative Customization Options
Customizing your bars is all about experimentation. Try these ideas to make them special:
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for a sweet surprise.
- Add a dollop of peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
- Use milk or dark chocolate for a different taste.
For dietary preferences, consider vegan marshmallows or homemade graham crackers. These small changes can make a big difference.
Transform the bars into bite-sized s’mores cups for parties. Simply press the crumb mixture into mini muffin tins, add a marshmallow and chocolate, and bake until golden. Let cool before serving for the perfect treat.
Baking and Serving Considerations
When it comes to baking and serving these delicious treats, a few key considerations will ensure they turn out perfectly every time.
Optimal Oven Temperature and Time
Preheat your oven to 350°F for the best results. Bake for 10 minutes to melt the marshmallows and toast them lightly. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Cut the bars into neat squares for a clean look. For a fun twist, serve s’mores cups on a decorative platter. This makes them perfect for parties or casual gatherings.
Nutrition and Storage Tips
Each bar has 212 calories, with 6g of fat. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For a personal touch, try using different types of chocolate or sprinkling sea salt on top.
- Monitor baking closely to prevent burning.
- Experiment with milk or dark chocolate for variety.
- Store bars in an airtight container for freshness.
These tips will help you create a dessert that’s both delicious and visually appealing!
Conclusion
With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that brings the campfire to your kitchen. This easy recipe transforms the classic s’mores into a delightful, baked treat perfect for any occasion. By combining the crunch of a graham cracker base, the sweetness of marshmallows, and the richness of chocolate, you can craft a dessert that feels both nostalgic and modern.
The key to making these bars is using quality ingredients and careful layering. Start with a firm graham cracker crust, then add a layer of chocolate and marshmallows. Bake until the marshmallows are lightly toasted, and let the bars cool for the best texture. The result is a treat that’s both gooey and crunchy, with a flavor that’s hard to resist.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can customize the bars by using different types of chocolate or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon. For a fun twist, try making bite-sized s’mores cups using mini muffin tins. These are perfect for parties or as a quick dessert for the family.
Whether you’re a fan of the classic campfire treat or looking for a new dessert idea, this recipe offers something for everyone. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to become a favorite. So why not give it a try? Share your creations and let us know how you make this recipe your own!
