Easy S’mores Brownie Bars – The Ultimate Campfire Dessert

S’mores Brownie Bars? Imagine combining the gooey, chocolatey magic of s’mores with the rich, fudgy decadence of brownies. That’s exactly what you get with these irresistible S’mores Brownie Bars. If you’ve been craving a campfire-inspired dessert but want something that can be made in the comfort of your kitchen, this recipe is perfect for you. Trust me—it’s got everything you love about s’mores, but in brownie form.

I first stumbled upon the idea for these bars during a family camping trip. We had leftover marshmallows and graham crackers but no firewood for our campfire. That’s when I thought, “Why not bake them into brownies?” What came out of that experiment was a dessert so good, it’s become a staple in our house. Whether you’re planning a summer party or just want a nostalgic treat without stepping outside, these S’mores Brownie Bars are sure to hit the spot.

Recipe Story/Background

The origins of s’mores trace back to the early 20th century, where recipes for “graham cracker sandwiches” were shared among camping enthusiasts. Over time, the classic trio—graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate—became the iconic campfire treat we know today. These S’mores Brownie Bars take that tradition and give it a modern twist, layering all the best parts of s’mores atop rich, fudgy brownies.

For me, this recipe is tied to summer evenings spent outdoors with family and friends. The smell of toasted marshmallows and melted chocolate brings back so many memories. But let’s be real—sometimes you just don’t want to deal with the smoke and mess of a campfire. That’s where these bars shine. They’re portable, easy to make, and perfect for sharing. Plus, you can enjoy them year-round, no camping trip required!

As the seasons change, this dessert evolves beautifully. In summer, it’s a great picnic treat. In winter, it’s a cozy indulgence alongside a steaming cup of hot cocoa. No matter the time of year, these bars are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.

Ingredient Discussion

Let’s talk ingredients! Every layer of these S’mores Brownie Bars is thoughtfully crafted to deliver that perfect bite of campfire nostalgia.

• Brownie Mix: The base of this dessert starts with your favorite brownie mix. I usually go for a fudgy variety, but if you prefer cakey brownies, that works too. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make the brownie batter from scratch—just make sure it’s rich and chocolate-packed.
• Graham Crackers: These form the crunchy foundation that gives the bars their signature s’mores flavor. You can use regular graham crackers, honey-flavored, or even chocolate graham crackers for a twist. If you’re gluten-free, opt for GF graham cracker alternatives.
• Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows work best since they melt evenly and create that gooey, toasted top layer. For a more dramatic look, you can use jumbo marshmallows cut in half.
• Chocolate Chips: A mix of semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips creates a harmonious blend of flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment with dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips if you prefer!
• Butter: Melted butter helps the graham cracker base hold together. Unsalted butter is ideal, but salted butter adds a subtle savory contrast to the sweetness.
• Optional Add-Ins: Crushed nuts, caramel drizzle, or even a sprinkle of sea salt can add a gourmet touch to these bars.

When sourcing ingredients, freshness is key. Always check expiration dates on marshmallows and chocolate chips, as older ingredients can lose their flavor and texture. Store graham crackers in a sealed bag or container to keep them crisp. Trust me—you’ll taste the difference!

Equipment Needed

Don’t worry—this recipe doesn’t require any fancy tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 9×13 Baking Pan: A standard size works perfectly for creating even layers. If you don’t have one, a square pan will work; just adjust the thickness of the layers.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two—one for the brownie batter and one for the graham cracker crust.
• Spatula: A silicone spatula is great for spreading layers smoothly.
• Oven: Obviously! Make sure it’s preheated to ensure consistent baking.
• Food Processor (Optional): This can be handy for crushing graham crackers, but a rolling pin and zip-top bag work just as well.

If you don’t have a food processor, no worries—your rolling pin will crush those graham crackers just fine. And for budget-friendly options, you can find quality baking pans at thrift stores or online marketplaces.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Create the graham cracker base: Crush 1 ½ cups (about 200g) of graham crackers into fine crumbs. Mix them with ½ cup (115g) melted butter and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust.
3. Prepare the brownie batter: Follow the instructions on your brownie mix to make the batter. For extra richness, add an additional ¼ cup (60ml) of melted chocolate to the mix.
4. Layer the brownies: Pour the brownie batter over the graham cracker crust and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
5. Add marshmallows: Immediately after removing the brownies from the oven, sprinkle 2 cups (about 100g) of mini marshmallows evenly over the top.
6. Broil until golden: Set your oven to broil and place the pan back in for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely—the marshmallows toast quickly!
7. Cool and set: Let the bars cool completely before slicing. If you try to cut them while warm, the marshmallow layer may stick to your knife.

Pro tip: Spray your knife with cooking spray before cutting to prevent sticking.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making S’mores Brownie Bars is straightforward, but here are a few tips to ensure success:

• Don’t overbake: The brownies are best when slightly underbaked, as they’ll continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
• Watch the marshmallows: Broiling marshmallows can turn from golden to burnt in seconds, so stay close and keep an eye on them!
• Cool completely: It’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the bars cool ensures clean slices and prevents the layers from sliding apart.
• Use parchment paper: Lining your pan makes cleanup a breeze and helps you lift the bars out for slicing.

If your marshmallows melt unevenly, don’t stress—it only adds to the rustic charm! And if you’re multitasking, set a timer for the broiling step to avoid accidentally burning the top layer.

Variations & Adaptations

These bars are incredibly versatile, and you can customize them to suit your preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free brownie mix and graham crackers for a GF-friendly treat.
• Vegan: Swap the brownie mix for a vegan option and use dairy-free butter and marshmallows.
• Flavor Twist: Add peanut butter chips or crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet variation.
• Seasonal Adaptation: Add crushed candy canes for a holiday-themed version, or drizzle caramel for a fall-inspired twist.
• Personal Favorite: I once added a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top—it balanced out the sweetness beautifully!

No matter how you adapt them, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these S’mores Brownie Bars at room temperature or slightly warmed for maximum gooeyness. Pair them with a cold glass of milk or a mug of hot cocoa for the ultimate dessert experience.

For storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Defrost at room temperature before serving.

Pro tip: The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, making leftovers even more delicious!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough estimate for one serving (based on a 9×13 pan cut into 12 bars):

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 3g

While these bars aren’t exactly a health food, they’re a fun treat for special occasions. Chocolate contains antioxidants, and marshmallows are naturally fat-free. Plus, making them at home means you can control the ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought desserts.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s equal parts nostalgic and indulgent, these S’mores Brownie Bars are the answer. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests, enjoying a quiet night in, or reliving childhood memories, this recipe delivers joy every single time.

I’d love to hear how you make these bars your own! Leave a comment below with your favorite variations, or share a photo of your creation. And don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest board for later!

Happy baking—let the campfire vibes begin!

FAQs: S’mores Brownie Bars

Can I use homemade brownie batter?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s a fudgy recipe to complement the gooey marshmallow topping.

What’s the best way to cut these bars?

Let them cool completely and use a sharp knife sprayed with cooking spray for clean slices.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! They store well and actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Are there dairy-free marshmallows available?

Yes, there are several brands of vegan and dairy-free marshmallows available at specialty stores and online.

Can I replace graham crackers with something else?

Sure! Crushed cookies or pretzels make great substitutions and add unique flavors.

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