Ready to indulge in a sweet treat that’s super easy and fun to make? My Oven-Baked S’mores Bars bring that classic campfire flavor right to your kitchen! With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll impress family and friends. Crispy graham crackers, melty chocolate, and gooey marshmallows come together for a delightful dessert. Let’s dive into this blissful recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– ½ cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
The main ingredients form the heart of your oven-baked s’mores bars. Each one plays a crucial role. The graham cracker crumbs give a sweet, crunchy base. The melted butter binds everything together, adding richness. Brown sugar adds a deeper sweetness, while vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
Mini marshmallows bring that classic s’mores taste. They melt beautifully and create a gooey layer. Semisweet chocolate chips add that rich chocolate flavor. If you love nuts, adding walnuts or pecans will give a great crunch and extra flavor.
Equipment Needed
– 8×8-inch baking dish
– Mixing bowls
– Measuring cups and spoons
You need some basic tools for this recipe. An 8×8-inch baking dish works perfectly. It holds the mixture well and helps with even baking. Mixing bowls are essential for combining all your ingredients. Measuring cups and spoons ensure you get the right amounts.
Preparation Essentials
– Preheating the oven to 350°F
– Greasing the baking dish
Before you start, preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is key for even cooking. Greasing the baking dish helps prevent sticking. You can use butter or a non-stick spray. These simple steps set you up for success. For the full recipe, check the details to make your s’mores bars an easy and delicious treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
– In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until it looks like wet sand.
– Press half of this mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish. This creates a solid base.
Layering Components
– Next, sprinkle mini marshmallows and chocolate chips evenly over the graham cracker base.
– If you like nuts, add chopped walnuts or pecans on top.
– Finally, take the remaining graham cracker mixture and crumble it over the marshmallows and chocolate.
Baking Process
– Now, place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
– Look for a golden brown top and toasted marshmallows.
– Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing into bars.
For the complete recipe with all ingredients and steps, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your S’mores Bars
To make your s’mores bars great, spread marshmallows and chocolate evenly. If you do this, every bite will have the right mix of flavors. Press down the top layer a bit. This helps everything stick together well.
Serving Suggestions
These bars taste best warm. Serve them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce. A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds extra joy. You can also sprinkle graham cracker crumbs on top for a fun touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Be careful not to overbake the bars. If you do, they can turn dry. Let them cool before cutting. This step keeps the bars from falling apart. Enjoy your perfect oven-baked s’mores bars! For the full recipe, check out the full recipe section.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your s’mores bars easily. Try using white chocolate chips or even peanut butter chips instead of regular chocolate chips. This small swap gives a new taste to your bars. Also, consider using flavored graham crackers. Options like cinnamon or chocolate graham crackers can add a fun twist.
Add-ins and Toppings
Get creative with add-ins. You can crush up your favorite candy bars and mix them in. Snickers or Reese’s pieces work great. Another tasty idea is to add fruit. Sliced bananas or strawberries add freshness and sweetness. For extra flavor, drizzle caramel or nut butter on top before serving. This makes your bars even more delicious.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need gluten-free options, don’t worry! Just use gluten-free graham crackers. Many brands offer great choices that taste just as good. Always check the labels on all your ingredients. This ensures everything is safe for your gluten-free diet. Enjoy your tasty bars without any worries!
Storage Info
How to Store
Keep your s’mores bars in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps keep them fresh and tasty. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. The cool air slows down spoilage and keeps the flavors strong.
Freezing Guidelines
To freeze the bars, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you want to eat them, just thaw them at room temperature. You can also reheat them slightly in the oven for a warm treat.
Shelf Life
These delicious bars last up to 5 days at room temperature. If you freeze them, they can stay good for up to 3 months. Just remember to keep track of how long they have been stored!
FAQs
Can I make Oven-Baked S’mores Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh and tasty. You can serve them warm or at room temperature.
What can I substitute for marshmallows?
Use marshmallow fluff or a different type of sweet topping. You can try peanut butter, caramel, or even chocolate spread. This adds a fun twist to the bars while still keeping them sweet and gooey.
How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Ensure the pan is well-greased or lined with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift the bars out after baking. If the bars stick, they might break apart. Greasing or lining the pan is a simple step that ensures success.
Oven-Baked S’mores Bars are easy to make and delicious to eat. You need simple ingredients like graham crackers, chocolate chips, and marshmallows. I shared tips for perfecting your bars and options for variations. Remember to avoid common mistakes like overbaking. Store them properly to keep them fresh. With a bit of creativity, you can make these bars your own. Enjoy your tasty treats!
