Peanut Butter Smores Bars Recipe

The Gooey Peanut Butter Smores Bars Recipe You Can’t Resist

Sweet memories of campfire nights collide with a delightful peanut butter s’mores bars twist that will make you smile.

Graham cracker layers cradle rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter in a no-bake dessert.

Marshmallow fluff adds dreamy texture to this simple treat.

Summer nostalgia meets kitchen creativity with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Kids and adults alike will adore these decadent squares that require zero baking skills.

Melted chocolate and gooey marshmallow create an irresistible combination you cannot resist.

Whip up these bars and watch everyone’s eyes light with pure dessert excitement.

Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Highlights

  • Indulge in Decadent Layers: Experience a mouthwatering combination of graham cracker crust, creamy peanut butter, marshmallow, and rich chocolate ganache that creates an irresistible flavor explosion.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, and parties where everyone craves a sweet treat that's sure to impress and satisfy all ages.
  • No-Fuss Preparation: Minimal baking skills required with simple steps and basic ingredients, making this recipe accessible for home bakers of all experience levels.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, allowing you to plan ahead for events or enjoy a delightful make-ahead dessert that's ready when you are.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter S’mores Bars

Base Layer:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic ingredient that creates a delicious crunchy foundation for the bars.
  • Butter: Helps bind the graham cracker crust together and adds rich flavor.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Peanut Butter: Provides a creamy, nutty layer that complements the sweet marshmallow and chocolate.
  • Marshmallow Cream: Adds a soft, gooey texture that gives these bars their classic s'mores-inspired character.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Chocolate Chips: Melted into a smooth ganache that adds decadent chocolate flavor to the bars.
  • Heavy Cream: Used to create a silky chocolate ganache that covers the marshmallow layer.
  • Mini Marshmallows: Sprinkled on top for extra marshmallow goodness and a golden toasted finish.

Quick Prep for S’mores Bars

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm your oven to 350°F.

Grab a 9×13-inch pan and line it completely with parchment paper, ensuring edges are covered for easy removal later.

Step 2: Create Crumbly Graham Crust

Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until they stick together.

Press the mixture firmly and evenly across the entire pan bottom, creating a solid foundation for your delicious bars.

Step 3: Spread Creamy Peanut Butter Layer

Generously spread a smooth, even layer of peanut butter across the graham cracker base, covering every inch with rich, nutty goodness.

Step 4: Add Fluffy Marshmallow Cream

Dollop marshmallow cream over the peanut butter layer.

Gently spread it around, creating a soft, pillowy surface that will make these bars irresistible.

Step 5: Craft Silky Chocolate Ganache

Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until tiny bubbles form around the edges.

Remove from heat and pour over chocolate chips.

Let sit for one minute, then stir until:
  • Chocolate chips completely melt
  • Mixture becomes glossy
  • Texture turns smooth and luxurious

Step 6: Pour Chocolate Ganache

Drizzle the velvety chocolate ganache over the marshmallow layer.

Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring complete coverage.

Step 7: Add Toasty Marshmallow Topping

Sprinkle mini marshmallows across the top.

For extra indulgence, use a kitchen torch to lightly golden the marshmallows, creating a campfire-like finish.

Step 8: Chill and Set

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

The bars need time to firm up and develop their incredible layered texture.

Once set, slice into perfect squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect S’mores Bars

  • Use a food processor or rolling pin to create fine, even crumbs for a smooth, compact crust that holds together beautifully.
  • Opt for creamy, room-temperature peanut butter to spread easily and ensure even coverage across the graham cracker base.
  • Remove chocolate ganache from heat immediately after cream starts simmering to prevent burning and achieve a silky, glossy texture.
  • Use a kitchen torch or broiler to lightly caramelize marshmallows, watching closely to avoid burning and achieve a golden-brown finish.
  • Allow bars to set completely in the refrigerator for clean, precise slices that showcase each delicious layer.

Variations to Spice Up S’mores Bars

  • Almond Butter Alternative: Swap peanut butter with almond butter for a different nutty flavor and lighter texture, perfect for those wanting a subtle change.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or ground nuts like almonds to create a celiac-friendly dessert.
  • Vegan S'mores Bars: Use coconut oil instead of butter, dairy-free chocolate chips, and vegan marshmallow cream to transform this recipe into a plant-based treat.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Substitute regular chocolate with dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) and use a sugar-free marshmallow cream to reduce overall sugar content.

Serving Suggestions for Peanut Butter S’mores Bars

  • Sweet Family Picnic Partner: Pack these bars in a cute container for outdoor gatherings, perfect for sharing with kids and friends.
  • Dessert Cafe Style Plating: Drizzle extra melted chocolate on the plate, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream beside the bar for elegant presentation.
  • Movie Night Snack Companion: Cut into smaller bite-sized squares, serve on a rustic wooden board with cold milk or hot cocoa for cozy movie watching.
  • Gourmet Gift Idea: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper, tie with a ribbon for a homemade treat that looks professionally crafted and tastes delicious.

How to Store Peanut Butter S’mores Bars

  • Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Let bars sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavor.
  • Warm individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power to maintain texture and prevent marshmallow from burning.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.

  • Do I need a kitchen torch to brown the marshmallows?

No, you can achieve a golden color by placing the pan under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

  • How do I get clean, neat bar cuts?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean with a warm, damp cloth between each cut to ensure smooth, precise edges.

  • Is this recipe suitable for make-ahead occasions?

Absolutely! These bars can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them perfect for parties and gatherings.

Print
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Peanut Butter Smores Bars Recipe

Peanut Butter Smores Bars Recipe


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4.7 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent peanut butter s’mores bars blend campfire nostalgia with gooey graham cracker goodness. Rich chocolate and marshmallow layers create a mouthwatering dessert that brings sweet memories closer with each delectable bite you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate and Peanut Butter Layer:

  • 2 cups chocolate chips
  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Crust Base:

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Marshmallow Topping:

  • 1 cup marshmallow cream
  • Additional mini marshmallows for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage for easy removal.
  2. Create the graham cracker crust by mixing crumbs with melted butter, then press firmly and evenly across the entire pan bottom to form a compact base.
  3. Carefully spread a uniform layer of peanut butter over the graham cracker foundation, covering every inch of the surface.
  4. Drop spoonfuls of marshmallow cream strategically across the peanut butter layer, then gently smooth into a consistent covering.
  5. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until small bubbles form around the edges, then immediately pour over chocolate chips, allowing them to melt naturally before whisking into a silky ganache.
  6. Cascade the glossy chocolate ganache over the marshmallow layer, tilting the pan to ensure complete and even distribution.
  7. Scatter mini marshmallows across the top, optionally using a kitchen torch to caramelize them to a golden-brown finish.
  8. Chill the assembled bars in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours, allowing all layers to set completely before slicing into neat squares.

Notes

  • Swap graham crackers for gluten-free alternatives to make the recipe celiac-friendly and accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Try different nut butters like almond or cashew for unique flavor variations and personalized taste profiles.
  • Use a kitchen torch carefully when browning marshmallows to achieve perfect caramelization without burning the topping.
  • Ensure ganache is smooth by stirring chocolate and cream gently and consistently, preventing potential graininess in the final texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 293 kcal
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 102 mg
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 18 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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