Smore Candy Bars: A Gooey, Irresistible Treat in 10 Minutes
The Memory Behind This Treat
There’s something about Smore Candy Bars that whisk me back to my childhood summers spent at the lake with my family. We’d gather around the firepit, armed with sticks and marshmallows, ready for a gooey adventure. The crackling fire, the smell of toasted marshmallows, and the faint smokiness in the air created a magical setting. Those were the days of sticky fingers and chocolate-smeared grins. When I first experimented with these candy bars, I wanted to capture that same joy without waiting for a camping trip.
Creating these bars in my cozy kitchen, I was reminded of those starry nights. Each layer—first the cinnamon-kissed graham crackers and then the fluffy marshmallow—brought back the nostalgia of those fireside moments. The final touch of dark chocolate coating sealed the deal, transforming a simple treat into something extraordinary. It amazed me how something made in 10 minutes could take me on such a delightful trip down memory lane.
As you whip up these bars, I hope you find your own piece of nostalgia woven into the layers. Maybe it’s a memory of camping trips, or perhaps a cozy night in around your own kitchen table. The beauty of these Smore Candy Bars is how they bring those warm, sweet moments a bit closer, anytime you want. If you’re looking for other comforting treats, you might enjoy exploring some of my favorite cozy desserts like the Cinnamon Butter Cookies or the Classic Chocolate Chip Muffins.
How To Make It (Mix & Ingredients)
Making these Smore Candy Bars is like a sweet adventure in your kitchen! First, let’s whip up that graham cracker crust. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This mixture is your base, creating a warm, spicy foundation for the bars. Add in the pieces of unsalted butter, and mix until you get a crumbly texture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers—whichever feels right. Add the honey, vanilla extract, and just enough cold water to bring the dough together. It should hold its shape, like a good friendship. Chill this beauty in the fridge while the oven preheats to 350°F.
Once chilled, press the dough into a prepared 9×13 inch pan lined with parchment paper. Ensure the parchment extends beyond the edges for easy lifting later. Sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and sugar over the crust, giving it that classic graham cracker touch. Poke holes across the surface with a fork and bake. The bake time can vary, so keep an eye on it. If you like a firmer crust, aim for closer to 45 minutes. For a softer base, check around 20 minutes. The aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen? That’s your cue to get excited!
While the crust is cooling, start on the marshmallow layer. Mix granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan. Heat gently, and watch it transform into a sticky sweet syrup. Meanwhile, bloom the gelatin in water, then combine it with your syrup and a touch of vanilla. Spread this fluffy goodness over the crust. Finally, melt the dark chocolate wafers and pour them generously over the marshmallow layer. Let everything cool and set, ideally overnight. Patience is a virtue, as they say—your taste buds will thank you!
Make-Ahead & Storage
When it comes to Smore Candy Bars, planning ahead can make all the difference, ensuring you have gooey deliciousness ready whenever the craving hits. These bars are perfect for prepping in advance, offering you a sweet treat without the last-minute rush.
To make these Smore Candy Bars ahead of time, prepare the graham cracker crust and marshmallow layers as described, then allow them to cool completely before adding the chocolate coating. Once you’ve layered on the chocolate, let the bars set in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight. This will not only enhance the flavors but also ensure the bars are perfectly firm for cutting.
For storing, once your bars are set and sliced, keep them in an airtight container. They can last up to a week in the refrigerator. If you’re planning to store them longer, consider freezing. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply let them thaw at room temperature, and they’ll be just as irresistible as the day you made them.
Remember, storing them properly ensures your Smore Candy Bars remain as delightful as those first bites, keeping their chewy texture and rich flavors intact. Now, you’ll never be without your favorite treat!
Best Ingredients & Party Variations
When it comes to creating these delectable Smore Candy Bars, quality ingredients make all the difference. For the graham cracker crust, use fresh cinnamon to ensure a fragrant, spiced base. If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute honey with maple syrup for a deeper, richer flavor. Don’t skimp on the dark chocolate melting wafers—opt for a high-quality brand like Ghirardelli for that silky, luscious coating. Your marshmallows will appreciate it!
Now, let’s talk variations. Hosting a party? Turn these bars into bite-sized delights by cutting them into squares before the chocolate sets. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt over the melted chocolate for a sophisticated twist. Feeling nutty? Mix in some toasted almonds or pecans into the marshmallow layer for a delightful crunch.
For a seasonal spin, try incorporating pumpkin spice into the graham cracker mixture during fall gatherings, or add a touch of peppermint extract to the marshmallows during the winter holidays. This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adjust to the occasion and your personal tastes. Whether you’re sharing these bars at a backyard barbecue or cozying up indoors, these variations will keep your Smore Candy Bars fresh and exciting with every bite.
FAQ’s About Smore Candy Bars
Are Smore Candy Bars healthier than traditional candy bars?
While Smore Candy Bars offer a homemade touch and control over ingredients, they’re still an indulgent treat. The homemade elements allow you to avoid preservatives and control sugar levels, especially if you opt for less sugar or darker chocolate. However, like most desserts, they should be enjoyed in moderation. The balance of homemade goodness and rich flavors makes them a delightful choice for special occasions.
How should I store Smore Candy Bars?
To keep your Smore Candy Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 5 days, but if you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can I substitute any ingredients in the Smore Candy Bars?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought graham crackers if you’re short on time—just crush them and mix with melted butter to form a crust. If you prefer milk chocolate over dark, feel free to swap it out for a sweeter touch. For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and marshmallows, and check that your chocolate is dairy-free. These bars are quite adaptable to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
What makes Smore Candy Bars different from traditional s’mores?
Smore Candy Bars bring the joy of s’mores into a convenient bar form, allowing you to enjoy them anytime without a campfire. These bars feature a homemade cinnamon graham cracker crust, fluffy toasted marshmallows, and a decadent dark chocolate coating. Unlike traditional s’mores, which can be messy, these bars are neatly layered and set, making them perfect for parties or snacks on the go. Plus, the cinnamon adds a delightful twist that elevates the classic flavor.
Conclusion
I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing these Smore Candy Bars as I do. There’s something magical about gathering around a kitchen island, marshmallow and chocolate smudges forgotten in the laughter and sticky fingers. These bars are more than just a quick treat—they’re a chance to create warm memories with loved ones, just like those cozy campfire nights.
So, why not give this recipe a try? It’s a delightful adventure in every gooey bite, perfect for impromptu gatherings or simply to brighten a rainy afternoon. You might just find it becomes a new family favorite, sparking smiles and stories.
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PrintSmore Candy Bars: A Gooey, Irresistible Treat in 10 Minutes
- Total Time: 590
- Yield: 34 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A great way to enjoy s’mores whenever you want! Layered bars featuring homemade cinnamon graham crackers, fluffy toasted marshmallows coated in dark chocolate.
Ingredients
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
7 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
4 tbsp cold water
3 tbsp honey
1 tsp vanilla bean paste
3 tbsp ground cinnamon
3 tbsp granulated sugar
2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup corn syrup
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup water, for agar-agar powder
7 tsp agar-agar powder
pinch of salt
1 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste
vegetable shortening
20 oz Ghirardelli dark chocolate melting wafers
Instructions
1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Add butter and mix using a pastry cutter or fingers.
3. Add 3 tbsp water, honey, and vanilla. Stir to combine. Add more water if needed.
4. Gather dough into a ball, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×13″ pan with parchment.
6. Spread dough in pan, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture, and poke holes with a fork.
7. Bake for 20-45 minutes. Allow to cool.
8. For marshmallow, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a pot. Boil and reach firm-ball stage.
9. Bloom agar-agar powder in 1/2 cup water. Combine with sugar syrup, add salt and vanilla, and whisk until fluffy.
10. Spread marshmallow over crust. Let set 2-3 hours, then broil until golden.
11. Melt chocolate in a double boiler. Coat each bar in chocolate.
12. Let bars cool and set for several hours or overnight.
Notes
Use fresh cinnamon for a more robust flavor.
Ensure marshmallow is fully set before cutting.
- Prep Time: 50
- Cook Time: 60
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg