Looking for a sweet treat that’s both easy and delicious? These S’mores Brownie Bars pack all the fun of classic s’mores into a chewy, fudgy delight. You’ll love the mix of chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your friends and family. Let’s get started on this mouth-watering adventure that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for S’mores Brownie Bars
To make S’mores Brownie Bars, you need key ingredients. Here’s what you must have:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
– Extra mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs for topping
These ingredients create a rich and gooey brownie base. The combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers gives you that classic s’mores flavor.
Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor
You can add ingredients to make your bars even better. Try these options:
– Nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch
– Peanut butter chips for a nutty twist
– Different types of chocolate, like dark chocolate or white chocolate
Adding these items can change the taste and texture. They can make your S’mores Brownie Bars unique and fun.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can modify the recipe for dietary needs. Here are some good swaps:
– For gluten-free options, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
– To make it vegan, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and plant-based butter.
– Replace regular chocolate chips with dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version.
These substitutions let everyone enjoy S’mores Brownie Bars, no matter their diet. You can still keep that delicious flavor while being mindful of different preferences. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation and Preheating the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the brownies bake evenly. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper. Lining makes it easy to lift the brownies out later.
Mixing the Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter with granulated and brown sugar. Stir until the mix looks creamy. Then, add the eggs, one at a time, and mix well. Pour in the vanilla extract for flavor.
In another bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry blend to the wet mix. Stir just until you don’t see any flour. Now, fold in the graham cracker crumbs and chocolate chips. Finally, add mini marshmallows gently.
Baking Instructions and Tips for Perfect Brownies
Pour the brownie mix into your prepared pan. Spread it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Once baked, take the pan out and sprinkle extra mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs on top. Turn on the broiler and return the pan to the oven. Watch closely! Broil for 1-2 minutes until the marshmallows are golden. After that, let the bars cool for ten minutes before cutting. Enjoy your gooey treat! For the full recipe, check the previous section.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
For the best texture, mix your batter well but don’t overmix. Overmixing can make brownies tough. When you fold in the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips, do it gently. This keeps them whole and adds nice pockets of gooeyness. Bake until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, not clean. This ensures a fudgy center.
How to Store S’mores Brownie Bars
Once cooled, store your bars in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and soft. If you want to keep them longer, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. This will help prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Serving Suggestions for the Best Experience
Serve your S’mores Brownie Bars warm for the best taste. They pair well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. You can also drizzle with chocolate syrup for extra sweetness. For a fun twist, add some crushed graham crackers on top before serving. This gives a nice crunch and enhances the s’mores flavor.
Variations
Gluten-Free S’mores Brownie Bars
To make gluten-free s’mores brownie bars, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that works well for baking. This will keep the texture light and chewy. You can also use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. Many brands offer these, making it easy to stay gluten-free.
Vegan S’mores Brownie Bars
For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Use a plant-based butter instead of regular butter. Choose vegan chocolate chips and make sure your graham crackers are vegan-friendly. These small changes keep the bars delicious and cruelty-free.
Flavor Add-Ins
You can customize your s’mores brownie bars with different flavors. Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate. This adds a new layer of flavor. Try swapping some graham cracker crumbs for crushed cookies, like Oreos, for a fun twist. Each variation makes the bars unique and special.
For the full recipe, check out the details above!
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices for Freshness
To keep your S’mores Brownie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps retain moisture. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They last up to five days at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, refrigeration is a good option. Just remember to seal them tightly.
Freezing Instructions for S’mores Brownie Bars
Freezing is a great way to save your S’mores Brownie Bars for later. Let them cool completely before freezing. Cut them into squares and wrap each one in plastic wrap. Then, place all the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Label the bag with the date to track freshness.
Thawing and Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen S’mores Brownie Bars, take them out of the freezer. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results. If you want a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will make them soft and gooey again. Enjoy your delicious bars as if they were fresh out of the oven!
FAQs
What are S’mores Brownie Bars?
S’mores Brownie Bars are a fun treat that mix brownies and s’mores flavors. They have a rich brownie base topped with gooey marshmallows, chocolate chips, and crunchy graham cracker crumbs. You can enjoy the taste of a campfire treat in a convenient bar form. This recipe combines the best of both worlds for a delicious dessert.
Can I use a different pan size?
Yes, you can use a different pan size. If you use a smaller pan, the bars may take longer to bake. A larger pan will make the bars thinner and bake faster. Just keep an eye on them while they bake to avoid overcooking.
How long do S’mores Brownie Bars last?
S’mores Brownie Bars can last up to five days when stored in an airtight container. They taste best when fresh, but you can still enjoy them even after a few days. If you store them in the fridge, they might last a bit longer.
What can I serve with S’mores Brownie Bars?
You can serve S’mores Brownie Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, adds a nice touch too. Try pairing them with a glass of cold milk for a classic combo.
How to reheat S’mores Brownie Bars?
To reheat S’mores Brownie Bars, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This warms them up and makes the chocolate a bit gooey again. If you prefer a crispy edge, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes. Just keep an eye on them!
S’mores brownie bars are fun and tasty treats. We covered essential and optional ingredients, plus substitutions for diets. You’ll find step-by-step instructions for baking and tips for perfecting texture. Don’t forget the variations and storage info for freshness. These simple changes can elevate your treats and keep them delicious.
Now, go ahead and enjoy your s’mores brownie bars with family and friends!
