Oatmeal S’mores Bars

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of s’mores with the hearty goodness of oatmeal. These Oatmeal S’mores Bars bring exactly that to your kitchen—a delicious and chewy treat perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings anytime. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch that balances crunchy oats, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate, making every bite feel like a campfire treat, without leaving your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: Minimal steps and common ingredients make this recipe beginner-friendly and stress-free.
• Perfectly chewy texture: The blend of oats and melted marshmallows creates a delightful chewiness that melts in your mouth.
• Comfort food classic: Captures the timeless campfire flavor of s’mores in an easy-to-handle bar form.
• Customizable for all tastes: You can easily swap ingredients or add extras to tailor it to your preferences.
• Great for any occasion: From after-school snacks to potlucks, these bars fit every event with their irresistible flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple, widely available ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering fantastic taste, texture, and visual appeal. From wholesome oats to gooey marshmallows and melting chocolate chips, every component works together to create perfect Oatmeal S’mores Bars.

• Rolled oats: The base for chewiness and a hearty bite.
• All-purpose flour: Adds structure without weighing down the bars.
• Brown sugar: Brings a caramel-like sweetness and moist texture.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
• Mini marshmallows: The classic s’mores gooeyness in a bite-sized form.
• Chocolate chips: Melty pockets of chocolate that make each bite nostalgic and indulgent.
• Baking soda: Ensures the bars rise slightly for a tender texture.
• Vanilla extract: A hint of warmth that enhances all other flavors.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies flavor.

Variations for Oatmeal S’mores Bars

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! These bars are wonderfully adaptable, letting you play with the mix-ins or modify them for dietary needs or flavor upgrades.

• Nutty twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend to keep the bars safe and delicious.
• Dairy-free swap: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips to suit lactose intolerance.
• Extra gooey: Sprinkle some marshmallows on top before baking for a toasted marshmallow crust.
• Chocolate variety: Mix semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips, or even white chocolate for a flavor twist.

How to Make Oatmeal S’mores Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Measure out your oats, flour, and sugar so everything is ready to go.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir until they’re well blended and evenly distributed.

Step 3: Incorporate Butter and Vanilla

Gently melt the butter, then pour it into the dry ingredients along with the vanilla extract. Mix everything together until you get a crumbly, slightly sticky mixture with even coating.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows

Fold in the chocolate chips and most of the mini marshmallows, reserving a handful for topping. These freeze-dried pockets of sweetness will give you that classic s’mores sensation in every bite.

Step 5: Press and Top

Press the mixture firmly into your prepared baking pan, making sure the surface is even. Sprinkle the remaining marshmallows on top to create a toasted finish after baking.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the marshmallows on top are puffed and lightly browned. Let the bars cool completely before slicing to keep their chewy texture intact.

Pro Tips for Making Oatmeal S’mores Bars

• Firm pressing: Press the mixture down firmly into the pan to prevent crumbly bars that fall apart easily.
• Use fresh marshmallows: Fresh mini marshmallows melt better and result in a softer texture than old or stale ones.
• Don’t overbake: Baking just until golden ensures your bars stay chewy, not dry or hard.
• Line your pan: Using parchment paper makes it easier to lift the bars out without breaking them.
• Cooling is key: Wait to slice until fully cooled so the bars hold their shape.

How to Serve Oatmeal S’mores Bars

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar or crushed graham crackers on top for a pretty finish and added texture.

Side Dishes

Serve these bars with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing that enhances the gooey chocolate and marshmallow flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into small squares and serve on a wooden platter alongside a cup of hot cocoa, perfectly capturing the campfire vibe without stepping outside.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Oatmeal S’mores Bars tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to freeze for up to 2 months—perfect when you want a quick sweet treat later on.

Reheating

For that freshly baked warmth, microwave the bars for 15-20 seconds or heat them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5-10 minutes until soft and melty again.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Quick oats can be used, but rolled oats provide a better chewy texture that’s key to the classic Oatmeal S’mores Bars experience.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Absolutely, these bars are kid-friendly, both in flavor and ease of eating, making them a perfect school or after-play snack.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend to keep the bars safe for gluten-sensitive folks.

What is the best way to cut the bars?

Use a sharp knife and cut after the bars have fully cooled to avoid crumbly edges and uneven pieces.

How long do the bars stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these Oatmeal S’mores Bars stay fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature.

Final Thoughts

There’s really nothing like a homemade batch of Oatmeal S’mores Bars to brighten your day and satisfy your sweet tooth. Simple, chewy, and packed with nostalgic flavors, they’re an easy dessert to make and share with family or friends. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite treat that brings that cozy campfire feeling right into your kitchen.

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