These bars came out of an argument with my kids about whether s’mores need an actual campfire, which I eventually settled by baking all the same flavors into one pan and letting them decide for themselves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- All the flavor of s’mores without needing a fire pit
- Easy to cut into bars for a crowd
- Great for a summer party or a camping trip prep ahead treat
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes & Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Graham crackers, crushed | 2 cups | |
| Butter, melted | 1/2 cup | |
| Chocolate chips | 1 1/2 cups | |
| Mini marshmallows | 2 cups | |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can (14 oz) | Helps bind the crust layer |
Pro tip: broil the marshmallow topping for just 30 to 60 seconds at the very end, watching closely. Marshmallows go from perfectly toasted to burnt within seconds under a broiler.
Kitchen Tools & Equipment
- A 9×13 inch baking pan
- A broiler or kitchen torch for toasting the marshmallows
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of a baking pan.
Step 2: Start Cooking
Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove and scatter chocolate chips evenly over the top.
Step 3: Add Layers of Flavor
Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the chocolate chips.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Return to the oven and bake 15 minutes, until bubbling at the edges.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Top with mini marshmallows and broil for 30 to 60 seconds, until golden and toasted. Cool before cutting into bars.
Expert Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tips:
- Watch the marshmallows constantly under the broiler. They can go from golden to burnt in a matter of seconds.
- Let the bars cool fully before cutting so the layers hold together instead of sliding apart.
Mistakes:
- Walking away during the broiling step, which is the single most common way to burn the marshmallows.
- Cutting the bars while still warm, which causes the layers to slide instead of slice cleanly.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
- Use a kitchen torch instead of the broiler for more control over the marshmallow toasting.
- Add chopped chocolate bars in with the chips for a chunkier texture.
What to Serve With This Dish
These pair well with a scoop of ice cream, or alongside a cold summer drink for the adults at the same gathering.
These pair well with homemade caramel corn for a full sweet and salty dessert spread. Since marshmallows and chocolate chips both contribute a fair amount of sugar, the American Heart Association is a good reference point.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storage: store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating: not necessary, these are typically served at room temperature.
Freezing: freeze individual bars, wrapped well, for up to 2 months.
FAQs About This Recipe
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bake the full pan a day ahead and store covered, though the marshmallow topping is best toasted the day you plan to serve them.
Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini?
Yes, slice them in half so they lie flatter and toast more evenly across the pan.
Final Thoughts
My kids still argue about whether this counts as real s’mores, but nobody’s arguing about whether it’s good.
Save this one for your next backyard gathering, fire pit or not.
