If you’re craving that nostalgic campfire treat with a cool twist, this Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine the perfect blend of crunchy graham cracker crust, luscious chocolate filling studded with gooey marshmallows, all chilled to a delightful frozen finish. It’s dessert magic that’s easy to whip up and even easier to devour, bringing all the classic s’mores flavors into a refreshing bar form that’s perfect for warm days or anytime you want a sweet escape.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples that come together beautifully to create fantastic flavors and textures. Each component plays an essential role, from the buttery crunch of the graham crust to the creamy chocolate-marshmallow topping that makes these bars utterly irresistible.
- Graham crackers (10, crushed): The base provides that classic s’mores crunch and subtle sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): Binds the crust while adding a rich, buttery flavor.
- Heavy cream (2 cups): Creates a silky smooth chocolate ganache for the filling.
- Chocolate bars (8 oz, chopped): The heart of the dessert offering deep cocoa richness.
- Large marshmallows (2 cups): Mixed in for gooey little pockets of sweetness in every bite.
- Pinch of salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness, bringing out all the flavors.
How to Make Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well coated and presses together easily. Press the mixture evenly into an 8-inch square baking dish to form the crust, then pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes until it turns beautifully golden and fragrant. Let it cool completely before moving on – this ensures a solid, crispy base for your bars.
Step 2: Make the chocolate filling
While the crust is cooling, gently heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts steaming – watch it closely so it doesn’t boil. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate bars in a heatproof bowl and let it sit for a few minutes. This melts the chocolate perfectly. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, glossy ganache that’s rich and luscious. Now, fold in the large marshmallows so they’re beautifully incorporated but still offer little bursts of melty softness.
Step 3: Assemble and freeze
Pour your chocolate-marshmallow mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Cover the entire baking dish with plastic wrap or foil to protect from freezer odors, then place it in the freezer. Chill for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight. This step lets the bars solidify while holding onto all that delightful s’mores essence in frozen form.
Step 4: Slice and enjoy
Once your bars are frozen solid, remove from the freezer and carefully slice into squares using a sharp knife. These bars are now ready to brighten up any day with their perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and marshmallow sweetness, all served chilled for maximum refreshment.
How to Serve Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some additional crushed graham crackers or mini marshmallows on top of the bars just before serving to add texture and visual appeal. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted chocolate can also elevate their look and flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
Frozen S’mores Bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra creamy treat or a cold glass of milk to balance the rich chocolate. Fresh berries on the side can add a juicy contrast that brightens each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, serve the bars on a rustic wooden board layered with parchment paper. Adding edible flowers or colorful straws on the side can bring a festive vibe. You can even try stacking the bars with alternating layers of marshmallows or drizzling caramel sauce for a fancy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that’s rare!), keep them stored in an airtight container in the freezer. This prevents freezer burn and keeps flavors fresh so you can enjoy that delightful Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe anytime.
Freezing
These bars freeze exceptionally well, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert. Simply cover tightly with plastic wrap and an additional layer of foil or place in a sealed container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 weeks in the freezer without losing their texture or flavor.
Reheating
Since these bars are perfect when chilled and icy, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if you prefer them softer, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can melt the bars unevenly and lose that cool texture that makes this recipe special.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with milk, dark, or even white chocolate depending on your preference. Just be sure to choose good-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.
Are mini marshmallows better than large marshmallows in the filling?
For this Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe, while large marshmallows are called for, mini marshmallows can be added on top or folded in if you want smaller bursts of gooey marshmallow. Both work well but create different textures.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
It’s possible to swap out the butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and coconut cream, and use vegan chocolate. Just be mindful of melting points and textures, which might vary a bit from the original.
How should I cut the bars to avoid crumbling?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps you get clean cuts without crumbling, keeping your bars neat and pretty.
Do I need to toast the graham cracker crust before adding filling?
Yes, baking the crust briefly enhances its flavor and ensures it forms a sturdy, golden base that holds the filling well, rather than becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe, I promise it’ll become a staple for your dessert rotation. It offers that beloved campfire classic flavor in an effortlessly cool, make-ahead treat that’s perfect for any season. So grab your ingredients, make a batch, and enjoy sharing these delicious bars with everyone you love!
Print
Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Frozen S’mores dessert is a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat, combining a crunchy graham cracker crust with a creamy chocolate marshmallow filling that is chilled to perfection. It’s an easy-to-make no-bake dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want an indulgent treat with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Crust
- 10 graham crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
Filling
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 8 oz chocolate bars, chopped
- 2 cups large marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
- Prepare Crust Mixture: In a bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the mixture is well combined and evenly coated with butter.
- Bake Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8-inch square baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown. Remove from oven and let it cool completely.
- Make Chocolate Filling: Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts steaming but not boiling. Remove from heat and pour over the chopped chocolate bars. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to melt the chocolate, then stir gently until smooth and creamy.
- Add Marshmallows: Fold the large marshmallows into the warm chocolate filling, mixing gently to incorporate them evenly.
- Assemble and Freeze: Pour the chocolate and marshmallow filling over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place in the freezer. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.
- Serve: Once frozen, slice into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing and rich dessert experience.
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality chocolate bars to enhance the flavor of the filling.
- You can substitute large marshmallows with mini marshmallows if preferred; however, texture will vary slightly.
- Store leftovers in the freezer covered tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain texture.
- Allow the frozen s’mores to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly for easier slicing.
- Optionally, drizzle with additional melted chocolate or sprinkle with crushed graham crackers for garnish.
