Gooey and Delicious S’mores Bars

 

Happy October!!!

It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost two months since my last post here, but life has been a bit wild the last several weeks of summer. Let’s just say that I am very thankful to begin a brand new month and season—one of my favorites—Autumn!

I wanted to share with you the easy and delicious S’mores Bars I made today! These are similar to the amazing bars my sister, Faith, makes and a bit different from the ones I made years ago.  I’ve always thought Faith’s bars were some of the best and my kids gobbles them up when she makes them for our family gatherings, so I was excited to try these out today.

As today closes out the kid’s first semester of school, which has felt a bit grueling for this mama, I wanted to celebrate in some way. We aren’t taking any trips this break, but I thought we could have some staycation fun at home and in the area! The weather is supposed to be nice next week, but not so much this weekend. My plans for a bonfire with s’mores was ruined with the downpour of rain that came all afternoon. 

On the other hand, the putter patter of rain and rumbling thunder lent itself to the coziest of homes with my candles burning and coffee flowing, so I decided to “pivot” my plans and make s’mores bars for dessert! No bonfire required for the classic combination of graham crackers, chocolate and gooey toasted marshmallows. 

To be tucked in my kitchen’s baking nook is the coziest spot in the house when it’s a rainy day, and that brings me great joy! I gladly pulled the ingredients out, a bowl and spoon and the pan and got to work! Oh, and I can’t forget the cozy instrumental music to complete the mood. 

I will say, these bars are best eaten the same day because the marshmallows tend to get tough after too long. To eat a piece warm out of the oven is the very the best time! I snuck a piece for myself while the kids had their quiet time, and I made a steaming cup of Mexican coffee to sip with it. While thunder was rolling was rolling, wind picked up outside and the torrential rain was much more than I expected, I felt very blessed and safe inside. 

Anybody can put these delicious s’mores bars together and your kids might even like to help! Hope you get a chance to make these if your bonfire gets rained out or if you want s’mores for a small crowd!… they will satisfy your craving for sure!

• S’mores Bars

1/2 c. Sugar

1/4 c. Butter, melted

1 egg

1 tsp. Vanilla extract

1 1/4 c. Graham cracker crumbs, divided (I crushed them myself.)

1/2 c. All-purpose flour

1/2 tsp. Baking powder

1/4 tsp. Salt

2 c. Mini marshmallows

1 3/4 c. Semi-sweet chocolate chips

Heat Oven to 375 degrees F. Spray a 13x9 inch baking pan with baking spray; set aside.

Combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla in a bowl; mix well.  Add 1 cup graham cracker crumbs, flour, baking powder, and salt; stir until just combined. Press evenly in the prepared pan.

Bake for 8 minutes. When removed from the oven, sprinkle onto partially baked crust the marshmallows, chocolate chips, and remaining 1/4 c. Graham cracker crumbs.

 

Continue baking 5-10 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown. I added Hershey’s pips to the top once out of the oven to give it the quintessential s’mores look to me! In my opinion, enjoy a piece while it’s still very warm with a glass of cold milk or strong coffee! 

To find joy in the everyday things is a gift. A good recipe, the time and love I put in baking for my people, and the enjoyment of each bite is a small but wonderful pleasure I hope to pass onto you in these simple, delicious recipes.

Hope you have the best weekend!!!