The aroma of warm chocolate and toasted marshmallows wafts through the air, instantly transporting me back to childhood campfire nights. Those magical moments of roasting marshmallows to perfection and sandwiching them between graham crackers and chocolate always hold a special place in my heart. Now, I can bring that same nostalgia right into my kitchen with these Easy S’mores Bars! Not only are they a breeze to whip up, making them a fantastic choice for last-minute dessert cravings, but they also serve as a delightful crowd-pleaser at any gathering. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a gooey, satisfying treat that captures the essence of summer, all year long. Ready to discover how simple and delicious these bars can be? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Easy S’mores Bars a Must-Try?
Nostalgic Flavor: Every bite of these S’mores Bars takes you back to carefree summer nights.
Quick to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal fuss, these bars are perfect for spontaneous dessert cravings.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for a family gathering or a friendly get-together, they’re a guaranteed hit that pleases both kids and adults.
Versatile Variations: Feeling adventurous? Mix in peanut butter cups or nuts for a fun twist, just like I did with my Lazy Chicken Parmesan!
Make-Ahead Convenience: Easily whip these up in advance, slice, and store until you’re ready to impress your guests!
Gooey Goodness: Soft, melty marshmallows and chocolate create a blissful texture that’s simply irresistible.
Easy S’mores Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
Graham Cracker Crumbs – Store-bought crumbs yield even texture; crush whole crackers finely if necessary.
Powdered Sugar – Provides smooth texture and sweetness to the crust.
Butter (Melted) – Helps bind the mixture; add gradually to prevent sogginess.
For the Filling
Hershey Bars (or other chocolate) – Adds sweet flavor; substitute with semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a richer taste.
Mini Marshmallows – Essential for that classic S’mores top layer, offering both texture and sweetness.
Get ready to create the most delicious Easy S’mores Bars, layered with nostalgia and gooey goodness!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy S’mores Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential to ensure that your Easy S’mores Bars bake evenly and achieve the perfect golden crust. While the oven warms up, gather your baking tools, including a greased 9×13-inch baking pan to prepare for your crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until the mixture resembles wet sand, ensuring all crumbs are coated. This gooey yet crumbly texture forms the foundation of your Easy S’mores Bars, ready to be baked to perfection.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Firmly press the crust mixture into the greased 9×13-inch pan. Aim for an even layer that covers the bottom completely. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 5-8 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a lovely golden brown. This solidifies the base, making it ready for the delightful toppings to come.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Layer
Once the crust is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately layer the Hershey bars across the warm crust. Make sure to cover the entire surface. Return the pan to the oven for 3 minutes, allowing the chocolate to soften beautifully, creating a tempting layer that will meld perfectly with the marshmallows.
Step 5: Distribute the Marshmallows
After letting the chocolate soften for 1-2 minutes, carefully sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the melted chocolate layer. This step creates that classic gooey top that is the hallmark of Easy S’mores Bars, promising delicious bites of melted goodness with every slice.
Step 6: Broil for a Toasty Finish
Now, switch your oven setting to broil. Broil the bars for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. You want the marshmallows to turn a beautiful golden brown without burning. This toasty finish is crucial for that delicious S’mores experience, enhancing the flavor and texture of your bars.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once the marshmallows are perfectly toasted, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Let the Easy S’mores Bars cool completely at room temperature. For clean cuts, refrigerate them for about 30 minutes to firm up the layers. Finally, slice using a sharp, warmed knife, revealing the gooey goodness within each bar.
What to Serve with Easy S’mores Bars?
Treat your palate to a delightful feast with flavors that dance together joyfully, enhancing your S’mores experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture contrasts the gooey bars beautifully, creating a heavenly combination of warmth and chill.
Mixed Berry Compote: Bright and tangy, this topping adds a burst of freshness that beautifully balances the rich sweetness of the bars.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some extra chocolate over the warm bars for those who dare to double down on dessert indulgence—because why not?
Fresh Fruit Skewers: Juicy fruits like strawberries and pineapple provide a refreshing crunch, lightening the richness while adding inviting colors to your spread.
Milkshake: A classic pairing! A chocolate or vanilla milkshake tastes indulgent alongside the bars and evokes those carefree summer memories.
Hot Cocoa: Pour a comforting mug of rich hot cocoa to keep the cozy vibe alive, making your dessert experience even more nostalgic.
Coffee: A strong cup of coffee adds depth and contrast to the sweetness of your S’mores Bars, making for an enjoyable after-dinner treat.
Peanut Butter Dip: Serve this alongside for a nutty twist that pairs excellently with the chocolate and marshmallow flavors, delightful on each bite.
Graham Cracker Dippers: Crushed graham crackers alongside the bars offer a fun way to scoop up the gooey goodness for an extra crunch.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy S’mores Bars are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the crust and layer it with chocolate up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps through adding the chocolate layer, and then cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or foil before refrigerating to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, add the mini marshmallows and broil as directed for that gooey topping. This way, you can enjoy your bars fresh and delicious without the last-minute rush, making your dessert planning stress-free and enjoyable!
Storage Tips for Easy S’mores Bars
- Room Temperature: Keep your Easy S’mores Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft, gooey texture. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or heat.
- Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, store the bars in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for the same 3 days, but allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
- Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as marshmallows may become chewy once thawed, impacting the beloved gooeyness. Instead, enjoy them fresh for the best experience!
- Reheating: If desired, you can warm slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to slightly melt the chocolate and marshmallows, enhancing the decadent taste.
Expert Tips for Easy S’mores Bars
Crust Consistency: Ensure the graham cracker crumbs are finely crushed for a smooth texture. This prevents a gritty crust that can detract from the overall experience.
Watch the Broiler: Keep a close eye on the marshmallows while broiling. They can go from golden to burnt in seconds, ruining the perfect gooey topping.
Slice with Ease: For clean, neat slices, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water. This technique helps cut through the sticky marshmallow layer without tearing.
Storage Savvy: Store your Easy S’mores Bars in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture. They’re best enjoyed fresh within 3 days!
Make Ahead Magic: Prepare these bars a day in advance and chill them for easy slicing and serving. Just remember to pull them out 20 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Easy S’mores Bars Variations
Feel free to take your Easy S’mores Bars to the next level by trying out these delicious variations! Each twist adds a unique flavor or texture that’s sure to delight.
Peanut Butter Bliss:
Layer dollops of creamy peanut butter over the chocolate before adding marshmallows for a nutty surprise.Nutty Crunch:
Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crust for a delightful crunch that enhances the overall texture of these gooey bars.Chocolate Lovers:
Swap out the Hershey bars for a mix of dark chocolate and milk chocolate for a rich and decadent twist.Salted Caramel Surprise:
Drizzle warm salted caramel sauce over the chocolate layer before adding marshmallows for a sweet and salty flavor explosion.Fruity Twist:
Incorporate sliced strawberries or bananas on top of the chocolate before adding marshmallows to introduce a fresh, fruity layer.Heat It Up:
Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.Smoky Flavor:
For a fun twist, consider using smoked chocolate or a drizzle of liquid smoke in your chocolate layer for a unique campfire flavor.
Try any of these variations the next time you whip up a batch! And if you’re also a fan of rich desserts, you might love the layers in my Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars or the indulgent topping of my Chocolate Treats Delightful. The possibilities are endless!
Easy S’mores Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of graham cracker crumbs should I use?
Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using store-bought graham cracker crumbs. They yield a smooth and even consistency. If you prefer to crush whole crackers, make sure they are grounded finely to avoid a gritty crust.
How should I store Easy S’mores Bars?
The most effective way to store your Easy S’mores Bars is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This method preserves their gooey texture and delicious flavor. If you live in a warmer climate, you might consider storing them in the fridge, but let them sit out for about 20 minutes before serving to regain that lovely softness.
Can I freeze S’mores Bars?
I don’t recommend freezing Easy S’mores Bars, as the marshmallows may become chewy and lose their delightful gooeyness when thawed. Instead, enjoy them fresh! If you find you have some leftover, simply store them in an airtight container and indulge within a few days for the best experience.
What if my marshmallows burnt under the broiler?
Don’t worry too much if this happens; it can occur quickly! To avoid burning, watch closely as they brown. If the marshmallows burn, simply scrape off the top layer and enjoy the delicious gooey chocolate and crust beneath. Next time, try keeping the broiler on a lower setting or adjust the distance of the pan from the heat source.
Are Easy S’mores Bars safe for my gluten-free friends?
Definitely! You can easily make gluten-free Easy S’mores Bars by using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. There are many options available in stores today, allowing everyone to enjoy this nostalgic treat without worry. Always double-check the ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I add different toppings to my S’mores Bars?
Very! Feel free to customize your Easy S’mores Bars by adding ingredients like peanut butter cups, chopped nuts, or even caramel squares for a unique flavor profile. These variations will not only give an exciting twist but also infuse a whole new layer of taste into every bite!

Easy S’mores Bars: Gooey Treats for Your Sweet Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Mix until resembling wet sand.
- Press the crust mixture into the greased pan and bake for 5-8 minutes, until golden brown.
- Layer the Hershey bars across the warm crust and return to the oven for 3 minutes.
- Sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly over the melted chocolate layer.
- Switch to broil and broil for 1-2 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes before slicing.