S’mores Bars with Marshmallow Layer are a decadent twist on the nostalgic campfire treat we all know and love. These dessert bars combine buttery graham cracker crust, a luscious layer of melted chocolate, and gooey marshmallow filling, baked to golden perfection.

They’re a crowd-pleasing dessert that brings the joy of s’mores indoors — no fire pit required! Perfect for parties, picnics, or cozy nights in, every bite is rich, chewy, and irresistibly sweet.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a creative way to enjoy s’mores any time of the year. You get all the classic flavors — the crunch of graham crackers, smooth chocolate, and gooey marshmallows — in a perfectly layered, easy-to-serve bar.

It’s indulgent but not fussy, and the marshmallow layer makes each bite melt in your mouth. Plus, the aroma of buttery graham crust baking with chocolate is pure heaven!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dessert because it takes the nostalgic fun of s’mores and transforms it into an elegant, portable treat. It’s perfect for bake sales, parties, or even as a holiday gift. You don’t need a campfire or skewers — just your oven and a few pantry staples.

The combination of textures — crunchy, gooey, and creamy — is absolutely irresistible. Once you try these, you’ll never go back to plain s’mores again!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Calories (per serving): ~280 kcal

Cuisine and Course

Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert, Snack, Party Treat

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Layer:

1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor)

For the Marshmallow Layer:

2 cups mini marshmallows or 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme/fluff

For the Topping (Optional):

Extra crushed graham crackers
Drizzle of melted chocolate

Simple Cooking Directions

Make graham cracker crust and press into a baking pan.
Bake slightly to set the crust.
Melt chocolate and spread over crust.
Add a layer of marshmallow and bake again until gooey and golden.
Cool, slice into bars, and serve!

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt.
Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the back of a spoon.
Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden and set.

Step 2: Add the Chocolate Layer

Remove crust from the oven.
Immediately sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the hot crust.
Let sit for 1–2 minutes to melt, then spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Add the Marshmallow Layer

Sprinkle mini marshmallows over the melted chocolate (or spread marshmallow fluff evenly).
Return to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until marshmallows are puffy and lightly golden brown on top.

Step 4: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Once cool, lift them out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares using a sharp knife.

How to Serve

Serve these S’mores Bars slightly warm or at room temperature for the best gooey texture. They make a wonderful after-dinner dessert, lunchbox treat, or potluck favorite. Pair them with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or coffee for the ultimate indulgence. For a party, drizzle melted chocolate over the bars and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers for a beautiful presentation.

Additional Recipe Tips

Use parchment paper: It makes removal and slicing easier.
Watch closely while baking: Marshmallows brown quickly — keep an eye on them!
For extra gooey bars: Add a few marshmallows after baking and toast with a kitchen torch.
Use high-quality chocolate: It makes a huge difference in flavor.
Chill before cutting: If bars are too gooey to slice, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes.

Variations

Peanut Butter S’mores Bars: Add a layer of peanut butter between the chocolate and marshmallow.
Nutella S’mores Bars: Replace chocolate chips with a layer of Nutella.
Dark Chocolate Twist: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Holiday Version: Add crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch.
Oreo S’mores Bars: Mix crushed Oreos with graham crackers for a cookies-and-cream crust.

Freezing and Storage

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days (bring to room temp before serving).
Freezing: Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months.
Thawing: Let thaw at room temperature for 30–45 minutes before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

8×8-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Rubber spatula
Knife for slicing
Kitchen torch (optional for browning)

FAQ

Q1: Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini ones?
Yes, just cut them in half before layering so they melt evenly.

Q2: Can I use store-bought marshmallow fluff?
Absolutely! It spreads more smoothly and gives a consistent gooey layer.

Q3: Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and bake a few minutes longer.

Q4: How do I make them less sweet?
Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate and reduce the sugar in the crust slightly.

Q5: How do I prevent the marshmallow from sticking to the knife?
Lightly grease your knife or dip it in warm water between cuts.

Conclusion

S’mores Bars with Marshmallow Layer are the perfect way to enjoy your favorite campfire dessert without leaving the kitchen. They’re rich, gooey, and full of nostalgic flavor — a perfect blend of buttery crust, creamy chocolate, and toasted marshmallow.

Ideal for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night at home, these bars will become a family favorite in no time. Once you taste the first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is an irresistible classic with a modern twist.