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When I want something sweet and nostalgic with no oven required these no-bake s'mores bars always hit the spot They capture everything I love about classic campfire s'mores in an easy make-ahead treat perfect for sharing or stashing away for a midnight craving
I threw these together once on a hot summer day to avoid turning on the oven and my friends devoured every crumb and asked for the recipe before they left
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs: This creates the signature base and brings that unmistakable toasty flavor Look for freshly sealed packs for best crunch
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the crust hold together Choose a good quality butter for best taste
- Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and binds the crumb base Pick organic if preferred
- Mini marshmallows: Melt smoothly and create the gooey layer The fresher the bag the quicker they melt
- Semisweet chocolate chips: Give deep chocolatey flavor Use high-quality chips as it makes a big difference
- Heavy cream: Gives the chocolate a ganache-like creaminess Avoid ultra-pasteurized creams which can be too runny
- Graham crackers for topping: Add extra crunch and that special visual effect Break them by hand for rustic pieces
- Extra marshmallows and chocolate chips: Provide that final classic s’mores touch Sprinkle on top for a beautiful finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Line the Pan:
- Line an eight-inch square baking pan with parchment paper leaving a bit of overhang This makes it a breeze to lift the bars out later and keeps them looking neat
- Prepare the Crust:
- Mix graham cracker crumbs melted butter and sugar in a medium bowl Stir until the mixture looks like wet sand then firmly press into the lined pan to form an even base Press hard so it holds together well
- Melt the Marshmallows:
- Combine three cups of mini marshmallows and two tablespoons butter in a microwave safe bowl Heat in 20 second bursts stirring each time until completely melted and glossy Smooth this over the cracker base with a spatula and let cool for about five minutes so it can set a little
- Make the Chocolate Layer:
- Pour chocolate chips and heavy cream into another microwave safe bowl Microwave in short intervals stirring often until silky and smooth Pour over the marshmallow layer and use a spatula to spread it out evenly
- Add the Toppings:
- Before the chocolate sets sprinkle the remaining marshmallows graham cracker pieces and some chocolate chips over the top Gently press them in with clean hands so they adhere snugly
- Chill and Cut:
- Refrigerate the whole pan for at least one hour or until the chocolate is firm Use the parchment to lift up the bars then slice into squares with a sharp knife
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My favorite part is the chocolate layer because it sets into a perfect fudgy bite Reminds me of sleepovers where my cousins and I would sneak extra chocolate into our s’mores when the grownups were not looking
Storage Tips
Keep these bars in an airtight container in the fridge so they stay firm and fresh They will hold up for up to five days but are best in the first three for maximum crunch If you want to stack them place a piece of wax paper or parchment between layers to prevent sticking
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of graham crackers try digestive biscuits or any plain crunchy cookie For the chocolate layer milk chocolate is a great substitute for semisweet or swirl them for a fun twist Vegan butter and coconut cream can be used for a dairy free option just make sure your chocolate and marshmallows match your dietary needs
Serving Suggestions
These bars are rich so I like to cut them small for a party platter If you want to turn this into a summer cookout activity let everyone sprinkle their own toppings before chilling Try adding crushed pretzels or sprinkles for a playful touch
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S'mores History
These treats bring back memories of long summer nights by the fire pit but the s’more dates all the way back to Girl Scout cookbooks in the 1920s I love how the old-fashioned combination of graham chocolate and marshmallow has become its own nostalgia trip in every bite
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different chocolate types?
Absolutely! Try milk chocolate for a classic s'mores flavor or bittersweet for a richer taste.
- → What if I don't have a microwave?
You can melt marshmallows and chocolate on the stovetop using a heat-safe bowl set over simmering water.
- → How should I store the bars?
Keep bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Can I make these bars vegetarian?
Use vegetarian marshmallows that are free from animal gelatin. Always check the ingredient labels.
- → Is it possible to freeze these bars?
Yes, freeze cut bars between layers of parchment paper for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- → Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Feel free to sprinkle chopped nuts, toasted coconut, or candy pieces on top for extra crunch and flavor.