Gooey S’mores Bars (Foolproof Recipe) Recipe
If you’re longing for all the joy of a campfire s’more but want the ease of baking, Gooey S’mores Bars (Foolproof Recipe) are destined to become your favorite dessert. Imagine golden, buttery graham cracker layers sandwiching swirls of gooey marshmallow and melty pools of milk chocolate—every bite is a nostalgic trip back to carefree summer nights. This reliable recipe guarantees that classic s’mores flavor, but baked up as sticky, soft-centered bars that can be shared at parties, packed for picnics, or devoured right at home with a tall glass of milk.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These classic bars only require kitchen staples, but don’t underestimate the magic that happens when they come together! Each ingredient plays a one-of-a-kind role, delivering irresistible taste, irresistible texture, and that iconic s’mores color we all crave.
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, melted): Butter is the secret to a rich, tender dough that tastes like pure indulgence once baked.
- Packed Brown Sugar (1/2 cup): Brown sugar infuses the bars with that caramel-like sweetness and helps keep the base super moist.
- Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): Adds a touch of classic sweetness and helps the edges to get a little chewy!
- Egg (1): This holds everything together into a true bar and adds just the right amount of richness.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Don’t skip it! Vanilla deepens all the cozy flavors.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Provides essential structure so your bars can be handheld without falling apart.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 cup): These bring that unmistakable s’mores crunch and golden color—crush your own for best results!
- Baking Powder (1/2 tsp): Gives the dough a little lift, so each layer stays light and soft.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances out the sweet and makes those chocolate and marshmallow flavors pop.
- Mini Marshmallows (1 1/2 cups): For that classic gooey melt—mini marshmallows disperse perfectly in every slice.
- Milk Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Melty, dreamy chocolate is what s’mores are all about; chips make it easy.
- Crushed Graham Crackers for Topping (1/2 cup): A sprinkle on top gives a bakery-worthy finish and a signature crunch.
How to Make Gooey S’mores Bars (Foolproof Recipe)
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave a little overhang on the sides for easy lifting—the bars will hold their shape much better and cleanup will be a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Buttery Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it looks like dreamy caramel. This simple blend is the secret to a super-moist, chewy crumb!
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Crack in the egg and add the vanilla extract. Whisk again until everything is smooth and glossy. These ingredients help the crust come together and ensure every bite tastes rich and bakery-level delicious.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir the flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt. Together, these dry ingredients deliver that signature color and cookie-like texture that makes Gooey S’mores Bars (Foolproof Recipe) so irresistible.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Together
Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix! You’re aiming for a soft, cookie-like dough that’s easy to press into the pan.
Step 6: Press Most Dough Into the Pan
Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of your lined pan. Pat it down with your hands or the bottom of a measuring cup to create a sturdy base—the foundation for all the gooey layers to come.
Step 7: Layer on the Chocolate Chips
Evenly sprinkle all the chocolate chips over your dough layer. They’ll melt into luscious, sticky puddles while baking—exactly what you want in every slice.
Step 8: Add the Marshmallow Magic
Scatter the mini marshmallows over the chocolate chips. Cover as much of the chocolate as possible—this guarantees that every bar is packed with goo, just like a campfire s’more.
Step 9: Top with Remaining Dough
Crumble the remaining dough over the marshmallows. Don’t worry about perfect coverage! Those little pockets will let the marshmallow bubble up and toast for the prettiest presentation.
Step 10: Sprinkle with Graham Cracker Topping
Finally, dust the top with crushed graham crackers. This sets the scene for that true s’mores look and adds a tiny bit of extra crunch in every bite.
Step 11: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 25 minutes—just until the top looks golden brown and the center is set. The hardest part? Resisting the urge to dig in right away!
Step 12: Cool and Slice
Cool the pan completely before slicing. This helps the marshmallow and chocolate set, so you get neat, gooey squares that hold together, whether you’re cutting snack-sized pieces or party-worthy bars.
How to Serve Gooey S’mores Bars (Foolproof Recipe)
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra mini marshmallows or a handful of chocolate shavings on top just before serving for that undeniable wow factor! A drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel can also amp up the decadent vibes if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
These bars are pure comfort all on their own, but you can’t go wrong pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a mug of hot cocoa. For summer picnics, try serving them with fresh berries and whipped cream for a fun twist on dessert!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut the Gooey S’mores Bars (Foolproof Recipe) into bite-sized cubes and skewer them with cocktail sticks. Nestle individual slices into cupcake wrappers for easy grab-and-go sharing, or wrap up cooled bars in parchment and tie with twine for an irresistibly cute homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once the bars are completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Layer parchment paper between the bars if stacking to keep them from sticking and to protect all those precious gooey bits.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Gooey S’mores Bars (Foolproof Recipe)! Simply wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. When a craving hits, thaw on the counter for 20–30 minutes—no reheating needed.
Reheating
If you want your bars warm and extra gooey, microwave individual pieces for about 10 seconds. This will revive that “fresh from the fire” oozy texture. Just don’t microwave too long or you might lose those gorgeous chocolate pockets!
FAQs
Can I double this recipe for a bigger crowd?
Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. The bake time may stretch by about 5 minutes—keep an eye out for that luscious golden-brown top as your signal they’re ready.
What’s the best way to crush graham crackers?
Place crackers in a zip-top bag and smash with a rolling pin for a chunky texture, or blitz in a food processor for finer crumbs. DIY always tastes better than store-bought!
Can I use dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Definitely! If you love a richer, less-sweet flavor, swap in your favorite chocolate chips or even a mixture. Gooey S’mores Bars (Foolproof Recipe) are endlessly customizable to your chocolate preference.
Why do my bars fall apart when I cut them?
The key is to let the bars cool completely before slicing. If they’re still warm, the chocolate and marshmallow haven’t set, which makes for delicious but messy bars. Patience pays off here!
Is it necessary to use parchment paper in the pan?
It’s highly recommended, especially for this gooey recipe. Parchment makes it easy to lift the whole batch from the pan, so you can cut perfect bars and ensure nothing sticks behind.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Gooey S’mores Bars (Foolproof Recipe), you’ll never look at traditional s’mores the same way again! They’re comforting, nostalgic, and so easy to whip up that you’ll want to bake them for every occasion—from weeknight treats to showstopping party desserts. Give them a try and let a little s’mores magic brighten up your next baking day!
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Gooey S’mores Bars (Foolproof Recipe) Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Capture the essence of a campfire s’more in these Gooey S’mores Bars. With a buttery graham cracker crust, melted milk chocolate, and perfectly toasted marshmallows, these bars are a foolproof and irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Crust:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Toppings:
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until combined.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Press 2/3 of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Layer chocolate chips evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle mini marshmallows on top of the chocolate.
- Crumble remaining dough over the top and gently press down.
- Sprinkle with extra crushed graham crackers.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown and set.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Ensure the parchment paper overhangs the pan for easy removal.
- Use fresh marshmallows for best results.
- Cool the bars completely before slicing for clean cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: S’mores Bars, Gooey S’mores, Dessert Bars, Easy Recipe, Marshmallow Bars
