Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe

If you have a soft spot for nostalgic flavors wrapped in a delightfully chewy treat, then this Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe is your next must-make obsession. Imagine the perfect balance of creamy peanut butter, gooey marshmallow crème, crunchy graham cracker crumbs, and melty chocolate chips all baked into one heavenly bar. This recipe brings the classic campfire s’mores vibe right into your kitchen with a rich peanut butter twist that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial for creating the perfect texture and flavor in your Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe. Each one plays a vital role in ensuring that every bite is satisfying and beautifully balanced.

• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick, room temperature): Adds moisture and richness to the dough for a tender crumb.
• 1/4 cup peanut butter: Provides that nutty base flavor that makes these bars uniquely delicious.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Introduces a subtle molasses sweetness that deepens the flavor.
• 1/2 cup white sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with that perfect baked texture.
• 1 large egg: Binds all ingredients together and contributes to the bar’s structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness with a warm, aromatic note.
• 1 & 1/3 cups all purpose flour (spooned and leveled): The main structure builder for these bars.
• 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 6 full sheets): Delivers that iconic s’mores crunch and a hint of honey flavor.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives a slight lift to keep bars from being too dense.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• 1/3 cup peanut butter: For layering on top of the base dough to boost the peanut butter goodness.
• 1 & 1/2 cups milk (semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips): Melts into delicious pockets of chocolate throughout each bar.
• 7 ounces marshmallow crème (1 jar): The gooey, spreadable magic that mimics the toasted marshmallow of classic s’mores.

How to Make Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Having the pan ready upfront keeps the process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Peanut Butter

In a large bowl or mixer, beat together the butter and 1/4 cup peanut butter until smooth and creamy. This step ensures a rich and flavorful base for your dough that will hold all the yummy ingredients together perfectly.

Step 3: Add Sugars

Next, add both the brown and white sugars to the mixture. Beat until well combined. These sugars not only contribute sweetness but add a lovely chewiness and slight caramel flavor to your bars.

Step 4: Mix in Egg and Vanilla Extract

Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, beating thoroughly. These ingredients bring richness and depth, giving your Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe that irresistible aroma and a soft, tender bite.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients Gradually

Dump the flour on top of the wet mixture but don’t stir just yet. Add the graham cracker crumbs, then sprinkle the baking powder and salt on top. Stir gently to combine the dry ingredients first, then mix everything with the beaters just until barely combined to avoid overworking your dough.

Step 6: Press Half the Dough Into the Pan

Using your hands or a spatula, spread half of the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Wetting your fingertips can make spreading the sticky dough much easier, resulting in a nice flat base for the layers to come.

Step 7: Add Peanut Butter Layer

Spread 1/3 cup of peanut butter evenly over the dough layer. This extra layer of peanut butter adds a luscious, nutty dimension that makes these bars stand out from the crowd.

Step 8: Sprinkle the Chocolate Chips

Scatter all the chocolate chips evenly over the peanut butter layer. These chips will melt during baking, creating delicious pockets of chocolate that bring the classic s’mores experience to life.

Step 9: Warm and Spread Marshmallow Crème

Remove the lid and foil from the marshmallow crème jar, then microwave it for about 20 seconds until it puffs up slightly. Warmed marshmallow crème spreads so much easier, so gently smooth it over the chocolate chip layer to create that ooey-gooey marshmallow top.

Step 10: Add Remaining Dough in Pieces

Using your hands, shape the remaining dough into 4 or 5 flattened pieces (think shingles) and place them over the marshmallow layer. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just fill in the gaps so the marshmallow is mostly covered. This rustic topping adds texture and a lovely golden finish when baked.

Step 11: Bake Until Golden

Bake your bars at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 28 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a lightly golden top with a soft, chewy center. The aroma filling your kitchen will make waiting near impossible!

Step 12: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy

Let the bars cool before cutting for the cleanest slices, although a warm bar with a glass of milk is a total dream too. Serve and watch these Peanut Butter S’mores Bars disappear quickly.

How to Serve Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra graham cracker crumbs or a drizzle of melted peanut butter right before serving can elevate the presentation and add a tiny textural contrast. For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top to balance all the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

These bars pair perfectly with classic cold milk or a creamy hot chocolate for a cozy treat. If serving at a party, consider fresh fruit like strawberries or sliced bananas to complement the rich flavors in a refreshing way.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, cut your bars into small squares and skewer them for a s’mores-inspired dessert kabob. Alternatively, layer crumbled bars atop vanilla ice cream for an irresistible sundae that captures the full essence of this Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerating them for up to a week keeps the bars fresh without losing their soft chewiness.

Freezing

Your Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual bars or the whole pan tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of foil to maintain freshness for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm bars gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until soft and gooey again. This quick reheat can bring back that fresh-baked feeling, especially when paired with a cold glass of milk.

FAQs

Can I substitute creamy peanut butter with crunchy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add delightful texture to your bars, giving little crunchy bursts alongside the smooth marshmallow and chocolate chips.

Is it necessary to use marshmallow crème, or can I use marshmallows?

Marshmallow crème spreads easily and melts smoothly, making it ideal for this recipe. However, mini marshmallows can be substituted if you scatter them over the chocolate chips before baking; just note the texture will be a bit different.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. This way you can enjoy the Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe without compromising on flavor.

What’s the best way to ensure even baking?

Make sure to spread the dough evenly in your pan, especially the top layer, and avoid overmixing your batter. Also, rotate the pan halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots.

Can these bars be made larger or smaller?

Definitely. If you want thinner bars, use a larger pan and reduce baking time slightly. For thicker bars, use a smaller pan and watch the baking time to avoid undercooking.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe a whirl because it’s one of those sweet treats that perfectly blend childhood nostalgia with adult-level indulgence. Whether for a cozy evening at home, a bake sale, or a fun gathering, these bars step up the classic s’mores game with peanut butter magic. Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to wow yourself and everyone around you with this unforgettable dessert!

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