Chewy S’more Bars with Chocolate and Marshmallows Recipe

If you’re craving that nostalgic, campfire classic but want something you can make anytime in your kitchen, you’re going to love this Chewy S’more Bars with Chocolate and Marshmallows Recipe. Trust me, it hits that perfect balance of crispy graham cracker crust, melty chocolate, and gooey marshmallow topping that’s just downright irresistible. Once you try these bars, you’ll see why I keep making them for last-minute guests and cozy nights in. Let’s dive in so you can whip up this fan-freaking-tastic treat yourself!

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Each component in this Chewy S’more Bars with Chocolate and Marshmallows Recipe plays a role in creating that nostalgic flavor and texture, so I never skip or substitute unless absolutely necessary. Plus, I’ll share a few tips on what to look for when buying these ingredients.

• Graham cracker crumbs: The base that brings that unmistakable classic s’mores crunch; using pre-crumbed or crushing your own works fine.
• Melted butter: This binds the graham crumbs and helps them crisp up during baking into a sturdy crust.
• Chocolate chips: I prefer semi-sweet for balance, but feel free to go milk or dark depending on your sweet tooth!
• Mini marshmallows: Size matters here—the minis melt evenly and toast beautifully without overpowering the bars.

Make It Your Way

One of my favorite things about this Chewy S’more Bars with Chocolate and Marshmallows Recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what’s in your pantry or your personal taste. I often swap in different chocolates or add a sprinkle of nuts for crunch – it’s all about making it your own cozy treat.

• Variation: Sometimes, I add chopped peanuts or walnuts right before adding the marshmallows for an extra texture contrast that my family loves.
• Dietary modifications: For a gluten-free twist, use gluten-free graham crackers; for dairy-free, try coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free chocolate.
• Seasonal changes: Around the holidays, I like swapping out the chocolate chips for peppermint or butterscotch chips to match the festive vibe.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Chewy S’more Bars with Chocolate and Marshmallows Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven and Pan Ready

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease your 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray—this makes removing the bars a breeze once baked. I’ve learned that using a light coat rather than a heavy one helps prevent sticking without altering the texture.

Step 2: Mix and Press the Graham Cracker Crust

Combine the 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with the ½ cup melted butter until everything is evenly moistened. This mixture will act as your crust. Press it firmly not only on the bottom but up around the edges of your pan to form a sturdy, slightly raised base. Don’t rush this part—the firmer you pack it, the better it holds together when cut.

Step 3: Bake the Crust for a Golden Start

Bake the crust for about 8 minutes. This initial baking step gives the graham cracker base that satisfyingly crispy edge. Keep an eye on it; you want it lightly golden but not burnt. This really creates a nice contrast to the gooey marshmallows later.

Step 4: Layer on the Chocolate and Marshmallows

After removing the pan from the oven, immediately sprinkle the 4 cups of chocolate chips evenly over the hot crust. Then, spread the mini marshmallows on top of the chocolate layer. The warmth of the crust starts melting the chocolate slightly, so make sure to work fairly quickly.

Step 5: Final Bake for Melty, Golden-Top Perfection

Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes. You’re looking for the marshmallows to puff up and turn a lovely golden brown on their tops. This is where the magic happens—gooey, toasted marshmallows that are soft and chewy, not burnt.

Step 6: Cool and Chill Before Serving

Once out of the oven, let your s’more bars cool slightly at room temperature. Then pop them into the fridge for at least an hour to set up firmly—this step makes cutting cleaner and keeps everything intact when you serve. I often prepare these a day ahead for potlucks because they actually taste even better once chilled!

How to Serve Chewy S’more Bars with Chocolate and Marshmallows Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top just after baking—it brings out the chocolate’s richness and enhances the sweet marshmallow flavor. Sometimes, I add a drizzle of caramel or a dusting of cinnamon for an extra special touch when serving to guests.

Side Dishes

These bars are sweet enough to shine solo, but they pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a luxurious dessert. For a casual snack, a hot cup of coffee or chocolate milk complements them perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthday parties or summer get-togethers, I sometimes serve these bars in mini mason jars layered with whipped cream and fresh berries for a fun s’mores parfait. Another crowd-pleaser is cutting them into bite-sized squares and arranging on a rustic wooden board alongside graham crackers and extra mini marshmallows for a DIY s’mores bar station.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled and chilled, I store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for up to 5 days, making them a perfect grab-and-go snack throughout the week.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months. To enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight. They won’t be quite as crispy but still delightfully chewy and chocolatey.

Reheating

Reheating is easy: pop a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to get that melty marshmallow texture back. Alternatively, 5 minutes in a 325°F oven does the trick if you want to revive some crispness to the crust without burning the topping.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Chewy S’more Bars with Chocolate and Marshmallows Recipe is one of those gems I keep returning to, especially when I want a quick dessert that feels special and homemade. The way the marshmallows toast perfectly over a crunchy crust with melty chocolate—it just hits every comfort-food note. If you love classic s’mores like I do but don’t always have a fire pit handy, these bars should be your new go-to. Give them a try soon; I can’t wait to hear how much you and your friends enjoy them!

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