S’mores Bars: Gooey, Chocolatey, and Campfire-Inspired

Layers of graham cracker crust, sweetened condensed milk, melty chocolate, and toasted marshmallows—this oven-baked treat brings the bonfire indoors

Introduction: A Campfire Classic, Reimagined

These S’mores Bars are everything you love about the iconic fireside treat—crunchy graham crackers, creamy milk chocolate, and gooey toasted marshmallows—stacked into a decadent dessert bar. No need for skewers or smoky flames, just a baking dish and a few pantry staples.

Whether you’re baking for a party, a cozy night in, or just craving something sweet and nostalgic, these bars deliver all the flavor of s’mores with the ease of oven baking.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s explore what makes these bars so irresistible:

Crust:

• Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted)
  Adds richness and binds the crust.
• Graham cracker crumbs (1 cup)
  Provide the classic s’mores base.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup)
  Adds sweetness and helps crisp the crust.
• Salt (⅛ tsp)
  Balances the sweetness.

Tip: Use a food processor for fine crumbs and even mixing.

Filling:

• Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz)
  Adds creamy sweetness and helps hold the layers together.
• Milk chocolate chips (2 cups)
  Melt into gooey perfection—use high-quality chips for best flavor.

Optional: Swap for semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a richer twist.

Topping:

• Mini marshmallows (2 cups)
  Toast to golden perfection for that classic s’mores finish.
• Crushed graham crackers (1 cup)
  Add crunch and visual appeal.

Optional: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel for extra flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Set oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or spray with nonstick spray.

Tip: Leave an overhang for easy lifting and slicing.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl:

• Mix melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt.

Press firmly into bottom of prepared pan.

Use a flat-bottomed glass for even pressing.

Step 3: Layer the Filling

Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over crust.

Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over milk layer.

Optional: Add chopped nuts or crushed cookies for texture.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, until:

• Edges are golden
• Chocolate is slightly melted

Remove from oven.

Step 5: Add Marshmallows

Immediately sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly over top.

Return to oven for 5–7 minutes, until:

• Marshmallows are golden brown
• Puffy and toasted

Tip: Watch closely—marshmallows toast quickly!

Step 6: Finish and Cool

Remove from oven.

Sprinkle crushed graham crackers over top.

Let cool completely.

For cleaner cuts, chill in refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Presentation Tip: Slice into squares and serve on a rustic wooden board with extra marshmallows.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Bake sales
• Birthday parties
• Movie nights
• Summer gatherings

Pair with:

• Cold milk
• Hot cocoa
• Vanilla ice cream

Tip: Serve warm for extra gooeyness or chilled for firmer texture.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Dark Chocolate S’mores

Use bittersweet chocolate chips and add a pinch of espresso powder.

Peanut Butter S’mores

Add peanut butter chips or swirl peanut butter into the condensed milk layer.

Nutty Crunch

Add chopped pecans or almonds to the chocolate layer.

Berry S’mores

Add a layer of raspberry jam or fresh berries before baking.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter, dairy-free condensed milk, and vegan marshmallows.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance.
• Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze sliced bars for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Tip: Layer parchment between bars to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Notes (Per Bar, ~1 of 16)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: ~3g
• Carbohydrates: ~32g
• Fat: ~14g
• Sugar: ~24g
• Sodium: ~120mg
• Fiber: ~1g

These bars are:

• Kid-friendly
• Comfort food approved
• Perfect for gifting
• Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These S’mores Bars are more than just dessert—they’re a bite of nostalgia, a celebration of gooey goodness, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking them for a party or sneaking a square for yourself, they’re sure to bring smiles.