If you’ve ever sat by a campfire, chocolate dripping from your fingers as marshmallows toast to golden perfection, then you know the nostalgic joy of s’mores. Now imagine capturing that iconic flavor combo in a soft, rich, oven-baked bar. That’s exactly what our Gooey S’mores Chocolate Bars deliver — all the classic ingredients you love, layered into one perfectly chewy, crunchy, chocolatey dessert.
This indulgent treat blends the buttery sweetness of graham cracker crust, the richness of semi-sweet chocolate chips, and the gooey magic of toasted marshmallows into a single, mess-free bar. Whether you’re craving something decadent for a party, looking to impress guests at a potluck, or simply want to recreate the feeling of summer nights indoors, this recipe is your new best friend.
Let’s dig into the ultimate guide to making these delectable bars from scratch.
Who This Recipe Is For
This recipe is perfect for:
- Busy parents who want to whip up a kid-friendly dessert quickly
- Baking beginners looking for a foolproof crowd-pleaser
- Campfire nostalgia lovers without access to a fire pit
- Chocoholics in search of their next gooey obsession
No fancy tools, no complicated techniques — just pure indulgence in every square. Whether you serve these at a summer BBQ, holiday party, or cozy night in, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients for Gooey S’mores Chocolate Bars
Here’s everything you need to recreate this indulgent dessert:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
Each of these simple ingredients works in harmony to replicate that classic s’mores flavor, with the bonus of being oven-friendly and easy to scale.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need any fancy tools to make these bars. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:
- Mixing bowl (medium size)
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Spatula or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
- Wire cooling rack
- Parchment paper (optional but helpful for easier cleanup)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease your 9×9-inch baking pan. For easier removal later, you can line it with parchment paper and let the edges hang over the sides.
Step 2: Mix the Crumb Base
In a medium bowl, mix together your melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt. Stir until the crumbs are fully moistened and resemble wet sand. This will give you that classic graham cracker crust flavor and texture.
Step 3: Press and Form the Crust
Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the bottom of your baking pan. Use the bottom of a flat glass or measuring cup to press it down firmly — this ensures a compact base that won’t fall apart when sliced.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate
Sprinkle 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips over the crust. Try to distribute them evenly so every bite is packed with chocolate.
Step 5: Layer with Marshmallows
Top the chocolate layer with 1 ½ cups of mini marshmallows. Cover the chocolate completely, as this will be the top layer that toasts beautifully in the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and just beginning to caramelize. Keep a close eye during the last 5 minutes to avoid over-browning.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial — it allows the layers to set, which makes slicing cleaner and easier. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut into squares and serve.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Don’t overbake. Once the marshmallows are golden and puffy, it’s time to take them out.
- Use a hot knife. For cleaner slices, run a knife under hot water and dry it before each cut.
- Add crunch. For added texture, mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the graham cracker crust.
- Try flavored chips. Substitute part of the chocolate chips with butterscotch or white chocolate for a fun twist.
- Make them gluten-free. Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to accommodate dietary needs.
Variations to Try
You can customize these bars in a variety of fun and delicious ways:
1. Peanut Butter S’mores Bars
Add a swirl of peanut butter between the chocolate and marshmallow layers for a nutty upgrade.
2. Salted Caramel S’mores Bars
Drizzle caramel sauce over the marshmallows just before baking and finish with a sprinkle of sea salt.
3. S’mores Brownie Bars
Add a thin layer of brownie batter over the graham cracker crust before layering chocolate chips and marshmallows. Bake an extra 10–15 minutes.
4. Holiday S’mores Bars
Use peppermint-flavored marshmallows and white chocolate chips for a festive version during the holidays.
How to Store Gooey S’mores Chocolate Bars
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: They will keep well for 5–7 days in a sealed container.
Freezer: These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Pro Tip: If you want that gooey texture again, pop a slice in the microwave for 5–10 seconds to re-melt the chocolate and soften the marshmallow.
Perfect Pairings
While these bars are a delight on their own, here are some tasty pairings to enhance your experience:
- Beverages:
- Hot cocoa with a touch of cinnamon
- Cold brew coffee with vanilla creamer
- A glass of red wine for an indulgent adult treat
- Other desserts:
- Serve alongside vanilla bean ice cream
- Plate with fresh strawberries for a fruity contrast
- Pair with a chocolate fondue spread for a DIY dessert buffet
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini ones?
Yes! Simply chop large marshmallows into smaller pieces. Minis work best for even melting and coverage, but the flavor remains the same.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely. Milk chocolate will yield a sweeter, creamier bar. Dark chocolate can also be used if you prefer something richer and less sweet.
What if I don’t have graham crackers?
Digestive biscuits or crushed shortbread cookies are great substitutes. You’ll still get that delicious crumbly base.
Are these bars safe to transport?
Yes! Let them cool fully and slice them before transport. Store in a sturdy container and separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply use a 9×13-inch pan and double all the ingredients. You may need to add 5–10 minutes to the bake time, but watch closely to avoid burning the marshmallows.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
These Gooey S’mores Chocolate Bars are the kind of dessert that makes everyone ask for the recipe. With just six simple ingredients and no fancy equipment required, this is an approachable, versatile treat that delivers big on flavor and nostalgia.
Whether you’re hosting a party, sharing treats at a school event, or just satisfying a weeknight craving, these bars never disappoint. They’re also a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen — from mixing the crust to sprinkling on the chocolate chips.
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Stay sweet, and happy baking! 🍫🔥🍪
