Do you crave a sweet treat that’s easy to make and super delicious? Look no further! Oven-Baked S’mores Bars blend all the flavors of classic s’mores into bite-sized goodness. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll create gooey, chocolatey bars that will impress everyone. Let’s dive into this delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
To make these Oven-Baked S’mores Bars, you need the following items:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup chocolate chips (milk or dark)
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Each ingredient plays a key role. The graham cracker crumbs give a nice base. The flour helps bind everything. Brown sugar adds sweetness and a hint of caramel. Butter brings richness. Salt enhances all the flavors, while baking powder makes them rise slightly. Marshmallows and chocolate chips make it a true s’mores delight.
You can add nuts for crunch, or skip them if you prefer. This recipe is simple and fun. You can find the full recipe for more details on how to combine these ingredients. Enjoy making these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. This helps with easy removal later.
Making the Crust
– In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and baking powder. Mix until you have a crumbly dough.
– Reserve a half cup of this mixture for later. This will be the topping for the bars.
Baking Process
– Bake the crust in the oven for 10 minutes. It should be lightly set and just starting to brown.
– Once baked, take the crust out and sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the top.
– Next, add mini marshmallows over the chocolate chips.
– Finally, crumble the reserved graham cracker mixture over the marshmallows. For a crunch, you can add chopped nuts if you like.
– Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes. You want the marshmallows to be golden brown and slightly puffed.
– Let the bars cool for at least 10 minutes in the pan. Use the parchment overhang to lift them out.
– Slice into squares and serve warm for a gooey s’mores treat!
For the full recipe, check [Full Recipe].
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
To get golden marshmallows, watch your oven closely. Bake them until they puff up and turn brown. This usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
Using parchment paper is key for easy removal. It helps prevent the bars from sticking to the pan. You can lift the bars out easily, thanks to the overhang. This makes cutting and serving much simpler.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add fun toppings or mix-ins to your bars. Try adding peanut butter chips or crushed candy bars. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top for a sweet and salty twist.
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. For vegan substitutes, swap the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate. These tweaks keep the joy of s’mores while catering to different diets.
Variations
Different Flavor Profiles
You can change up the flavor of your Oven-Baked S’mores Bars. Try making peanut butter s’mores bars. Just mix creamy peanut butter into the dough. This adds a rich, nutty taste. It pairs well with chocolate and marshmallows.
Mint chocolate s’mores bars are another fun twist. Use mint chocolate chips instead of regular ones. The mint adds a fresh kick that feels special. You can also add crushed mint candies on top for extra flavor.
Ingredient Swaps
Don’t be afraid to swap ingredients for your s’mores bars. You can use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. This gives a deeper flavor. You can also mix in different nuts. Try almonds or hazelnuts for a tasty crunch.
For the crust, you could use cookie dough instead of graham cracker crumbs. This makes the bars sweeter and softer. It’s a fun way to change the texture while still keeping that s’mores feel.
Explore these variations to find your favorite flavor. These twists keep your s’mores bars exciting and fresh! Check out the Full Recipe for more details on making these delicious treats.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your s’mores bars fresh, use an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Place a layer of parchment paper between the bars and the lid. This helps keep them from sticking. You can store the bars at room temperature for about three days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key. Place a bar on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it for about 10-15 seconds. This warms the bars without making them hard. If you want that gooey texture back, you can also put them in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 5-10 minutes.
For a fun twist, serve your reheated bars with a scoop of ice cream. The warm s’mores with cold ice cream create a yummy contrast. You can also drizzle some caramel or chocolate sauce on top for extra flavor. For more ideas, check the Full Recipe.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I make S’mores bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make S’mores bars ahead of time. Just bake them as directed. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about three days. For the best taste, warm them slightly before serving.
What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?
If you lack graham cracker crumbs, you can use digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. Crush them into fine crumbs. This will give you a similar sweet and crunchy base for your bars.
How can I make these bars more decadent?
To make these bars more decadent, add toppings like caramel sauce or peanut butter. You can also mix in flavored chocolate chips, like caramel or butterscotch. These small changes create a richer flavor.
Troubleshooting
Why are my bars falling apart?
If your bars fall apart, they might lack enough binding. Ensure you pressed the crust well and used the right amount of butter. Let them cool completely before slicing for better stability.
What should I do if my marshmallows are not browning?
If your marshmallows are not browning, the oven may not be hot enough. Broil them for a minute at the end if needed. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. This will give you that perfect golden top.
You learned to make delicious S’mores Bars with simple steps. From gathering ingredients to baking, it’s easy and fun. Remember to use parchment paper and watch your marshmallows turn golden. Try adding fun twists like peanut butter or mint for new flavors. Store leftovers well, and enjoy them later. These bars are great for sharing or a sweet treat just for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make them your own. Happy baking!