S’mores Granola Bars

There’s something about the cozy, nostalgic flavors of s’mores that instantly brings back memories of summer nights, crackling campfires, and sticky fingers. Now imagine capturing all of that in a chewy, satisfying granola bar that you can enjoy any time of year. These S’mores Granola Bars are everything you love about the classic treat, wrapped up in a golden, gooey square of bliss. With toasted marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers in every bite, they’re the kind of snack you’ll keep coming back to.

Behind the Recipe

I first created these granola bars on a chilly fall afternoon, when I was craving something sweet but didn’t want to fire up the grill for traditional s’mores. With a pantry full of oats, graham crackers, and a bag of mini marshmallows just begging to be used, the idea hit me. Why not combine everything into a chewy, snackable bar that feels like a warm hug? And let me tell you, they’ve been a hit ever since.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While s’mores have their roots in American camping culture, first appearing in a 1927 Girl Scout guidebook, granola bars are a more modern invention, beloved for their grab-and-go convenience. This recipe is a delightful fusion of both the rustic sweetness of s’mores blended with the practicality of granola bars. It’s the best of both worlds, and no campfire required.

Why You’ll Love S’mores Granola Bars

These bars are more than just a fun twist on a childhood favorite. They’re packed with flavor, texture, and plenty of personality.

Versatile: Perfect as a snack, lunchbox treat, or even dessert. You can dress them up or keep them simple.
Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples, they’re an affordable sweet treat for the whole family.
Quick and Easy: You’ll be amazed at how fast these come together no baking required if you toast the marshmallows with a torch.
Customizable: Swap chocolate chips for chunks, or use vegan marshmallows if needed.
Crowd-Pleasing: These bars disappear fast at potlucks and gatherings. Everyone loves them.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare a batch in advance and store them for later.
Great for Leftovers: Leftover graham crackers and marshmallows? This recipe is the perfect solution.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Before you dive in, here are a few tricks I’ve picked up along the way:

• Use fresh marshmallows for optimal melt and texture.
• Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together well.
• Toast the top marshmallows under a broiler or with a kitchen torch for that authentic s’mores vibe.
• Line your pan with parchment to make removal and slicing a breeze.
• Chill before cutting for clean, sharp edges that look bakery-perfect.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy to make these bars, but a few essentials will help.

Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients easily.
Saucepan: To gently melt the binding mixture of butter, sugar, and honey.
Spatula: Helps mix and press everything evenly.
8×8-inch Baking Pan: The perfect size for thick, chewy bars.
Parchment Paper: Keeps sticking at bay and makes cleanup easier.
Kitchen Torch (Optional): For that golden marshmallow top without turning on the oven.

Ingredients in S’mores Granola Bars

Each ingredient in these bars plays a special role in making them irresistible.

1. Old-Fashioned Oats: 2 cups – The chewy, hearty base of the bars.
2. Graham Crackers: 1 cup, crushed – Brings the signature s’mores flavor and crunch.
3. Mini Marshmallows: 1 ½ cups – For gooey sweetness and toasty tops.
4. Mini Chocolate Chips: ¾ cup – Melty pockets of chocolate in every bite.
5. Unsalted Butter: ¼ cup – Helps bind everything together and adds rich flavor.
6. Honey: ⅓ cup – Natural sweetness that holds the bars together.
7. Brown Sugar: ¼ cup – Adds caramel notes and extra stickiness.
8. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the sweet, dessert-like aroma.
9. Salt: ¼ teaspoon – Balances the sweetness and boosts flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to make a few changes? Here’s how you can tweak the recipe.

Old-Fashioned Oats: Use quick oats for a softer texture.
Graham Crackers: Try digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers.
Mini Marshmallows: Use vegan marshmallows if needed.
Mini Chocolate Chips: Chopped dark chocolate or white chocolate work well.
Honey: Maple syrup or agave for a vegan alternative.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar for a less processed option.
Butter: Coconut oil or vegan butter substitute.

Ingredient Spotlight

Graham Crackers: These classic cookies are what give the bars their nostalgic s’mores flavor. They add a bit of crunch and sweetness that ties the whole recipe together.
Mini Marshmallows: These aren’t just for decoration they melt into the bars and get beautifully toasted on top, creating gooey, golden magic.

Instructions for Making S’mores Granola Bars

Alright, let’s get to the fun part. Here’s how to bring these delicious bars to life.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   If using the broiler or torch for toasting, get it ready. Otherwise, no preheating is needed!
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, honey, and brown sugar. Stir until smooth and just bubbling. Remove from heat, then stir in vanilla and salt.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   In a large bowl, mix oats, graham crackers, 1 cup marshmallows, and chocolate chips. Pour the warm mixture over and stir to coat. Press mixture firmly into the lined pan.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Sprinkle remaining ½ cup marshmallows on top. Toast under the broiler for 1–2 minutes or use a kitchen torch until golden.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then lift out using parchment. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for cleaner cuts.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Slice into squares and enjoy with a glass of milk or pack them for a cozy snack later!

Texture & Flavor Secrets

These bars are all about contrast. The oats provide a hearty chew, the graham crackers bring crunch, and the marshmallows add melty softness. The chocolate melts into silky ribbons, while the hint of salt balances out all that sweetness perfectly. Every bite feels layered, rich, and oh-so-satisfying.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here’s a few handy reminders to keep in your back pocket:

• Press the mixture down firmly to avoid crumbly bars.
• Use parchment overhang to easily lift and cut.
• Toast marshmallows gently they can burn quickly.
• Cool completely before slicing for the cleanest presentation.

What to Avoid

A few common missteps can be easily dodged:

• Skipping the chilling step: Makes it harder to cut clean bars.
• Over-toasting the marshmallows: Keep a close eye under the broiler.
• Using too much wet mixture: Can make the bars sticky and fall apart.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 220
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling)

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These bars are made for planning ahead. You can whip up a batch, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap each square individually in parchment or plastic wrap and stash them in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

How to Serve S’mores Granola Bars

They’re amazing on their own, but you can pair them with a mug of hot cocoa, crumble them over ice cream, or even sandwich them with peanut butter for a next-level treat. Perfect for movie nights, lunchboxes, or road trips.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Got extras? Try these ideas:

• Crumble into a parfait with yogurt and berries.
• Use as a crust for mini cheesecakes.
• Chop and mix into cookie dough.
• Blend into a milkshake for a s’mores-inspired drink.

Additional Tips

• Warm up a square for 10 seconds in the microwave for gooey goodness.
• Double the recipe and use a 9×13 pan for a party-sized batch.
• Want a healthier version? Reduce the sugar slightly and add some chopped nuts.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation matters! Stack the bars on a wooden board with scattered mini marshmallows and a few chocolate chips for a rustic, inviting look. Tie a few bars in parchment and twine for gift-worthy snacks. That golden marshmallow top really shines under soft lighting.

Variations to Try

• Peanut Butter S’mores Bars: Add ¼ cup peanut butter to the melted mixture.
• Nutty Delight: Toss in chopped almonds or pecans for crunch.
• Vegan Version: Use maple syrup, coconut oil, and vegan chocolate and marshmallows.
• Double Chocolate: Use chocolate graham crackers and add cocoa powder.
• Fruity Twist: Mix in dried cranberries or cherries for a sweet-tart contrast.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make these bars without marshmallows?
A1: You can, but you’ll lose the classic s’mores texture. Try using a vegan marshmallow alternative or increase the chocolate slightly.

Q2: Are these bars gluten-free?
A2: Use certified gluten-free oats and graham crackers for a gluten-free version.

Q3: How long do these bars stay fresh?
A3: Up to 1 week in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

Q4: Can I add nuts to this recipe?
A4: Absolutely. Chopped almonds or pecans add great crunch.

Q5: What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
A5: Chill them first, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Q6: Do I need to bake these?
A6: Nope! A quick broil or torch is all you need for toasting.

Q7: Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
A7: Yes, it works well and adds a unique flavor.

Q8: What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?
A8: Just use your oven broiler and watch closely.

Q9: Can I make these in a larger batch?
A9: Double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan.

Q10: Are these suitable for kids’ lunchboxes?
A10: Yes! Just be mindful of marshmallows if your school has sticky food policies.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s packed with nostalgia, flavor, and texture, these S’mores Granola Bars check every box. They’re simple to make, fun to share, and guaranteed to bring smiles with every bite. Trust me, you’re going to love this one.

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