If there’s a dessert that captures the joy of cozy campfires and childhood nostalgia, it’s Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch. With gooey marshmallows melting into a base of buttery graham cracker crumbs and rich chocolate, these s’mores bars offer all the warmth of a classic fireside treat—no outdoor flames necessary. The end result is an irresistible blend of textures: crisp, creamy, and chewy all in one blissful bite. Whether you’re serving a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe turns any day into a sweet special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses just a handful of everyday ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch. Every item is essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture—trust me, skipping one is not an option!
- Graham cracker crumbs: The backbone of the classic crunch, lending a toasty, honeyed foundation to each bite.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Provides rich flavor and helps bind the crust together so it doesn’t crumble apart.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the base and helps give the crust that touch of crispness.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Offer bursts of silky chocolate—absolutely essential for that true s’mores flavor.
- Mini marshmallows: These puff up, toast, and melt beautifully, giving the bars their addictive gooey top.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Locks in moisture and richness, bringing a creamy sweetness that ties everything together.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth and depth, enhancing the nostalgic flavors.
How to Make Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting some hang over the sides for easy removal later. This not only prevents any sticky mess but also makes cutting those perfectly neat Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch bars a breeze.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a mixing bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until everything is evenly moistened and crumbly. Pour this mixture into your prepared pan and press it down firmly and evenly using the back of a spoon or your hands. A solid, even crust sets the stage for every delicious layer to come.
Step 3: Layer the Chocolate Chips
Sprinkle half of the chocolate chips right over the crust. This creates little chocolate pockets that will partially melt as the bars bake, infusing the base with rich cocoa flavor as part of the ultimate Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch experience.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Sweetness
Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the chocolate chip layer, ensuring you cover every inch. This dreamy, creamy layer acts as glue, holding all the good stuff together and giving the bars that deliciously decadent chewiness.
Step 5: Top with Marshmallows and More Chocolate
Scatter the mini marshmallows evenly across the surface, followed by the remaining chocolate chips. The marshmallows will puff up and toast beautifully while the extra chocolate ensures every bite is gooey and melty—in true Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch style.
Step 6: Bake
Slide your pan into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. Watch for the marshmallows to turn golden and slightly toasted, like campfire perfection. Don’t rush this step—it’s the secret to transforming the simple ingredients into a layered treat that’s out of this world.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan. This patience pays off: cooling ensures clean, neat slices without marshmallow sticking everywhere. Once cool, lift them out by the parchment and use a sharp knife to cut into sixteen squares of pure Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch bliss.
How to Serve Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch
Garnishes
For an extra touch of flair, try a gentle dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a few crushed graham cracker pieces over the top. Kids and adults alike will marvel at the added sparkle and crunch—it’s all about those little details!
Side Dishes
Serve your bars alongside fresh berries for a tart contrast, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate summer-inspired treat. Coffee, tea, or a mug of hot cocoa are delightful companions when you want to turn snack time into something special.
Creative Ways to Present
Bring a little whimsy to any gathering by cutting bars into fun shapes with cookie cutters, stacking them for a dessert tower, or wrapping individual Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch squares in parchment and twine for a picnic-perfect shareable treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once the bars have cooled and been sliced, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Their texture remains just right, with gooey marshmallows and crisp graham cracker crunch in every bite.
Freezing
To keep your Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch for later, arrange them in a freezer-safe container with pieces of parchment between each bar. Freeze for up to two months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for an hour or so before serving.
Reheating
If you love your bars a little warm and extra melty, pop an individual square in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The marshmallows soften, the chocolate oozes, and you’ve got a fresh-from-the-oven sensation any day of the week.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! If you’re a fan of classic, creamy s’mores flavor, swapping for milk chocolate chips brings a sweeter note that pairs beautifully with the graham cracker crust and marshmallows. Just use the same quantity as directed for a delicious result.
How do I keep the marshmallows from sticking to my knife when slicing?
For neat, mess-free bars, run your knife under hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. This trick glides right through the marshmallow layer and keeps slices looking bakery-perfect.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! A handful of chopped walnuts, pecans, or even toffee bits can be sprinkled along with the chocolate and marshmallows for an extra flavor and crunch in your Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch bars.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free graham crackers to substitute for the crumbs, and check that your other brands of chocolate chips and marshmallows are certified gluten-free. The rest of the process is exactly the same.
What’s the best way to double the recipe for a party?
To double up, use two 9×13-inch baking pans for even baking, or one extra-deep pan if available. Just keep an eye on the baking time—the bars may take a few extra minutes to toast up perfectly on top.
Final Thoughts
With every bite full of gooey marshmallow, rich chocolate, and that signature graham cracker crunch, Marshmallows & Graham Cracker Crunch is always a hit. Whether you’re recreating campfire joy or simply craving something sweet and satisfying, this recipe brings smiles to every table. Give it a try and let this nostalgic treat become your new favorite, homemade no-fuss dessert!
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