Are you ready for a new twist on a classic treat? My Oven-Baked S’mores Bars are sweet, chewy, and perfect for everyone. With simple ingredients like graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate, you can whip this up in no time. Imagine layers of gooey goodness and crunchy bites mingling in each square. Let’s dive in and create your next favorite dessert that will impress friends and family alike!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/3 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
These main ingredients are key to making the base of your s’mores bars. The graham cracker crumbs give a sweet, crunchy texture. The butter binds everything together, while the sugars add sweetness and depth.
Baking Essentials
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
These baking essentials provide structure to the bars. The flour helps the bars hold together. Baking powder adds a little lift, while salt enhances the flavors.
Toppings
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (for topping)
The toppings are what make these bars special. Mini marshmallows melt and create that gooey s’mores goodness. Milk chocolate chips add a sweet, creamy flavor. Crushed graham crackers on top give a nice crunch.
For the complete recipe, you can check out the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
– Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Start by preheating your oven. A hot oven helps the bars bake evenly. Next, you need to prepare the baking dish. Greasing ensures the bars do not stick. Lining with parchment paper also helps with easy removal.
Mixing the Dough
– Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter.
– Add in sugars and mix until sandy texture.
In a large bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. This gives the bars a rich taste. Then, add the brown and granulated sugars. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until it looks like wet sand. This mixture forms the base of your bars.
Building the Layers
– Create the bottom crust and layer marshmallows and chocolate.
– Crumble the remaining dough and sprinkle over the top.
Press half of the dough into the bottom of the baking dish. This forms a nice, firm crust. Next, spread mini marshmallows evenly on top. Add the milk chocolate chips next. Finally, crumble the rest of the dough over the marshmallows and chocolate. This helps create a delicious top layer.
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Texture
To get the best texture in your s’mores bars, spread the dough evenly in layers. This way, every bite will have that sweet and chewy goodness. Also, use room temperature ingredients. They blend better and help create a smooth dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bars warm for the best experience. Drizzle some chocolate sauce on top for extra sweetness. You can also pair them with vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the warm bars.
Baking Time Adjustments
Watch the baking time closely. If you leave them in too long, they may dry out. I recommend using an oven thermometer to check the heat. This simple tool ensures your oven is at the right temp for baking.
For the full recipe, refer to the earlier section.
Variations
Flavor Enhancements
You can make your Oven-Baked S’mores Bars even better. A great way is to add nut butter. Peanut butter or almond butter gives a rich taste. It pairs well with chocolate and marshmallows. You can also try different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate adds a nice depth. White chocolate brings a creamy touch. Each choice changes the flavor in a fun way.
Dietary Modifications
If you have dietary needs, you can still enjoy these bars. Use gluten-free graham crackers if you need a gluten-free option. There are many brands that work well. You can also adjust the sugar levels to fit your needs. Use less sugar or a sugar substitute if you want a healthier treat. This way, everyone can enjoy these sweet bars.
Fun Mix-Ins
Adding mix-ins can make your bars unique. You can include peanut butter chips for a nutty flavor. Toffee bits add a sweet crunch that is hard to resist. You can also sprinkle crushed nuts on top. Walnuts or pecans give added texture and taste. These fun mix-ins let you get creative and make the bars your own. For the full recipe, check out the instructions above.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Oven-Baked S’mores Bars fresh, place them in an airtight container. You can store them at room temperature for about three days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them. This helps maintain their sweet and chewy texture.
Reheating Tips
If you want to enjoy your bars warm, you can reheat them in the microwave. Warm them for just a few seconds. For a crispy texture, place the bars in the oven. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This method brings back that fresh-baked taste.
Freezing Instructions
If you have extra bars, you can freeze them! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature. This way, they’ll be soft and ready to enjoy.
FAQs
Can I make Oven-Baked S’mores Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bars a day in advance. This makes them perfect for parties or family gatherings. Just store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready, simply cut and serve.
How do I know when my bars are done baking?
Look for a golden brown top and bubbly marshmallows as indicators. This means they are ready to come out of the oven. The smell will also be delightful, filling your kitchen with sweet aromas.
What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?
Crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies work well. Both options give a nice flavor and texture. You can even mix them if you want something unique.
Can I use larger marshmallows instead of mini?
Yes, but ensure they are chopped into smaller pieces for even distribution in the bars. This helps every bite have that gooey marshmallow goodness. You want the marshmallows to melt perfectly.
What are some other ways to serve S’mores Bars?
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or whipped cream for added flavor. You can also try drizzling chocolate sauce on top. These options make the dessert even more fun and tasty!
In this post, we explored how to make delicious oven-baked s’mores bars. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best results. You can add your favorite mix-ins or modify the recipe for dietary needs. Store leftovers properly to keep them fresh and reheatable. Baking these bars is fun and easy, ensuring a tasty treat for everyone. Enjoy making your s’mores bars and sharing them with friends and family!
