Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
- 1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate bars for extra melty goodness)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full sheets crushed)
Substitution tips: If you’re short on graham crackers, digestive biscuits or even a mix of crushed vanilla wafers make a lovely alternative. For a dairy-free option, swap the butter for plant-based margarine and use dairy-free chocolate chips. I’ve done this many times when hosting friends with dietary restrictions—no one needs to miss out on the joy of s’mores!
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step always reminds me of my grandma’s advice: “Measure twice, mix once.” It’s the small details that make all the difference.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3 to 4 minutes. This is one of my favorite parts; the smell of the creamed butter and sugar instantly feels like home.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. The batter will start to look glossy and rich here, signaling that we’re on the right track.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet, just until combined. Avoid overmixing—remember, we want tender, chewy bars, not tough ones.
- Fold in the graham cracker crumbs gently, reserving half of them for the topping. Then fold in half of the chocolate chips and half of the mini marshmallows.
- Press half of the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chips, and marshmallows evenly over the dough layer.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the top and gently spread to cover the toppings as best as you can. Don’t worry if it’s a bit uneven—that’s part of the charm and texture!
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and marshmallows are puffed and lightly toasted. I like to peek in around 20 minutes to make sure the marshmallows don’t burn—campfire memories don’t need to be smoky in the oven!
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting out with the parchment overhang. This resting time helps everything set perfectly, making them easier to slice and enjoy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International