S’mores Seven Layer Bars Recipe

If you adore the nostalgic combination of gooey marshmallows, melty chocolate, and crisp graham crackers, then S’mores Seven Layer Bars will absolutely steal your heart. This playful treat layers all the favorite flavors of firelit s’mores into a decadent, oven-friendly dessert bar that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat. They’re a chocolatey, sticky, crunchy dream—perfect for parties, picnics, or whenever a serious sweet craving strikes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes S’mores Seven Layer Bars so magical is how each simple ingredient plays its part: the creamy condensed milk for richness, marshmallows for that signature toast, and classic chocolate and graham crackers for authentic s’mores flavor. Here’s how it all comes together:

• Graham cracker crumbs (2 1/2 cups): These build the buttery base and add that iconic s’mores crunch.
• Butter, melted (3/4 cup): Melting the butter blends perfectly with the crumbs, holding your base together for a luscious bite.
• Sweetened condensed milk (1 14-ounce can): This magic ingredient creates a caramel-like chewiness and binds all the layers.
• Mini marshmallows (2 cups): They bubble and toast in the oven, mimicking that classic campfire marshmallow texture.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): These melt into gooey ribbons and add depth to every bar.
• Broken graham cracker pieces (1 cup): Scattered through the layers for double the golden crunch and visual appeal.
• Chocolate bars, broken into pieces (2 bars, 1.55 ounces each): Chocolate bar shards on top deliver that s’mores authenticity and melt-in-your-mouth finish.

How to Make S’mores Seven Layer Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and either mist it thoroughly with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper. This tiny step makes all the difference later when you’re lifting out those gooey bars!

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. It should look like damp sand, perfectly ready to mold. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish—this is your sturdy, buttery base for the S’mores Seven Layer Bars.

Step 3: Pour on the Sweetened Condensed Milk

Slowly drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over your crust. It will sink in and start weaving those delicious layers together, ensuring you get a slice that’s sticky, chewy, and wonderfully sweet.

Step 4: Layer the Goodies

Time for the first round of magic: Sprinkle half of the mini marshmallows across the top. Then add all of your chocolate chips and the broken graham crackers. Don’t worry about perfection—the more rustic, the more delicious these bars turn out.

Step 5: Bake, Add Marshmallows, and Return to the Oven

Slide your baking dish into the oven for 15 minutes. After that, carefully remove it and sprinkle the remaining marshmallows over the top; this ensures you get that beautifully toasted marshmallow layer. Return everything to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the marshmallows are browned just right.

Step 6: Finishing Touches with Chocolate Bars

Take your pan out and set it on a cooling rack. While everything is still warm and melty, gently lay the broken pieces of chocolate bar on top. The residual heat helps them soften but keeps that classic bar look. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing—patience is tough here, but the reward is worth it!

How to Serve S’mores Seven Layer Bars

Garnishes

Sometimes, a little extra pizzazz makes dessert even more festive. Try drizzling melted chocolate or caramel across the tops just before serving, or sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a surprising twist. For parties, a handful of extra mini marshmallows or a dusting of graham cracker crumbs adds an artful touch.

Side Dishes

Because S’mores Seven Layer Bars are so rich, pair them with something refreshing: think a bowl of strawberries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a mug of fresh cold milk. Their classic flavor profile also makes them a lovely match for coffee or hot chocolate at a cozy gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bars into a variety of shapes: classic squares, slim fingers, or even circles with a cookie cutter for something special. For a picnic or kids’ party, wrap individual portions in parchment and tie with string—it’s cute, portable, and picnic-basket-friendly. If you’re hosting, arrange them on a rustic wood board alongside extra chocolate pieces and graham crackers for an irresistible dessert “grazing” platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your S’mores Seven Layer Bars fresh and fabulous, place any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days this way and stay perfectly gooey without getting dry or crumbly.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze these little bites of bliss! Cool them completely, then wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, just let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before indulging.

Reheating

If you want to recapture that “fresh from the oven” magic, pop a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This brings back the gooeyness in the chocolate and marshmallows without over-melting the structure. Warm S’mores Seven Layer Bars taste just as good as the day you baked them!

FAQs

Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini?

You can! Just chop them into smaller pieces first so they melt more evenly and don’t overwhelm the other layers. Mini marshmallows scatter more evenly, but large ones will get you there in a pinch.

What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?

Let S’mores Seven Layer Bars cool completely before slicing, and use a sharp knife that you wipe clean between cuts. If you want really tidy results, chill the bars briefly in the fridge before cutting.

Can I add nuts or other add-ins?

Definitely! Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts give a lovely crunch, or try swirling in some peanut butter chips for a slight twist. Just don’t overload the bars, or the layers won’t hold together as well.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Simply swap in gluten-free graham crackers for both the crumbs and the broken pieces. Double-check that your chocolate chips and bars are gluten-free too, and you’re all set.

Can I make S’mores Seven Layer Bars ahead for a party?

Absolutely. These bars are actually easier to slice and serve if made a day in advance. Store them covered and, if you’d like that just-baked effect, give them a quick warm-up right before your guests arrive.

Final Thoughts

There’s just no resisting the pull of gooey chocolate, toasted marshmallow, and the satisfying crunch of graham crackers stacked together in S’mores Seven Layer Bars. Whether you’re making them for family, friends, or just a weeknight treat, they’re guaranteed to become a new go-to favorite. So what are you waiting for? Your inner camper will thank you—give these a try and share a little s’mores magic with everyone around you!

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