Get ready for a cozy fall treat that’s hard to resist: Pumpkin S’mores Bars! These bars combine gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and spiced pumpkin filling, making them the perfect dessert for crisp evenings. I’ll walk you through simple steps to create this delightful treat. Plus, I’ll share tips for ingredient swaps and storage, so you enjoy these bars longer. Let’s dive into this fun recipe that will make your taste buds sing!
Ingredients
To make delicious pumpkin s’mores bars, you need some key ingredients. These components create the perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Detailed Ingredient List
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: This forms the base. Look for fresh, crunchy crumbs.
– ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: This adds rich chocolate flavor to the bars.
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Use real butter for the best taste and texture.
– 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetens the filling, balancing the pumpkin’s earthiness.
– 1 cup pumpkin puree: Opt for pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling. It’s key for flavor.
– 2 large eggs: These bind the filling together, giving it a smooth texture.
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This enhances the overall flavor of your bars.
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A must for that warm fall spice.
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and warmth to the pumpkin flavor.
– ¼ teaspoon salt: A small amount boosts all the flavors in the bars.
– 1 cup mini marshmallows: These create that classic s’mores touch.
– ½ cup chocolate chips (milk or dark): Choose your favorite type for extra sweetness.
If you have allergies, consider these substitutions:
– Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free option.
– Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a vegan version.
– For dairy-free, swap butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
These ingredients work together to make a tasty fall treat. You can find the full recipe to get started on these pumpkin s’mores bars!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven. Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key to getting the bars baked just right.
2. Prepare the baking pan. Grab a 9×13 inch baking pan. Lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. This will help you remove the bars easily later.
3. Create the graham cracker crust. In a medium bowl, mix together:
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Stir until it looks like wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan. This crust will hold everything together.
4. Mix the pumpkin filling. In a large bowl, whisk together:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ¼ teaspoon salt
Make sure it’s smooth. A well-mixed filling ensures great flavor in each bite.
Baking Process
5. Pour and spread the filling. Carefully pour the pumpkin mixture over the crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. This ensures every bar has the same taste.
6. Bake and test for doneness. Place the pan in the oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes. The edges should be set. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out mostly clean, your bars are done.
Final Touches
7. Add marshmallows and chocolate chips. Take the pan out of the oven. Immediately sprinkle on:
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– ½ cup chocolate chips
The heat will start to melt them, creating a gooey layer on top.
8. Broil for the perfect golden top. Return the pan to the oven and set it to broil. Keep a close eye on it for 1-2 minutes. You want the marshmallows to turn golden.
9. Cool and cut the bars. After broiling, let the bars cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Then, place them in the fridge for an hour. This helps the flavors mix and the texture firm. When chilled, cut the bars into squares. Enjoy your pumpkin s’mores bars!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
To ensure even cooking, spread the filling smoothly over the crust. This helps it bake uniformly. Keep an eye on your bars as they bake. They should be firm at the edges and slightly soft in the center. A toothpick should come out mostly clean when they are done.
Flavor Enhancement
You can add more spices to enhance the flavor. Try a pinch of ginger or cloves for an extra kick. Choose high-quality chocolate for the best taste. Good chocolate makes a big difference in flavor. Use dark chocolate chips for a rich contrast.
Presentation Ideas
Serve your bars on a rustic wooden board. This adds charm to your dish. Drizzle warm chocolate sauce on top for a decadent touch. Sprinkle crushed graham crackers on the bars for added texture. You can also top them with whipped cream for a delightful finish. Explore the full recipe to get more creative ideas!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change up the chocolate in your pumpkin s’mores bars for fun flavors. Try using white chocolate for a sweet twist. Dark chocolate adds depth and richness. For a more sweet treat, consider using peanut butter chips. Each option gives a new taste to the bars.
Switching flavors for the seasons is also fun. In winter, you can swap pumpkin puree with peppermint extract. This change adds a festive touch and a cool flavor. You can also use chocolate mint chips for a unique taste.
Dietary Adjustments
If you want a vegan version, swap the eggs with flaxseed meal. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips and vegan butter for all the creamy goodness.
You can change the crust too. Use crushed gluten-free cookies for a gluten-free option. You can also try chocolate cookies for a deeper flavor. If you want a nutty taste, consider using almond flour for the crust. These easy switches will help you enjoy pumpkin s’mores bars your way.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your pumpkin s’mores bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their texture and taste. You can stack the bars with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep them in a cool, dry place. They will stay fresh for up to three days on the counter. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them. They can last up to a week in the fridge.
Freezing Tips
Freezing is a great option for longer storage. First, let the bars cool completely. Cut them into squares, then wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you are ready to eat them, remove the bars from the freezer. Thaw them in the fridge overnight for best texture. You can also let them sit at room temperature for a couple of hours. Enjoy your pumpkin s’mores bars at their best! For the full recipe, check out the previous section.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just cook and mash it well. Canned pumpkin is easier and saves time. It also has a smoother texture, which is great for bars.
How do I know when my bars are adequately broiled?
When broiling, watch closely for the marshmallows. They should turn golden and puffy. This usually takes just 1-2 minutes. Keep the oven light on to see better.
What are some recommended pairings with pumpkin s’mores bars?
These bars go well with hot chocolate or spiced cider. You might also enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The flavors balance nicely for a cozy treat.
Troubleshooting
What to do if the crust is too crumbly or overly dry?
If the crust is dry, add a bit more melted butter. Mix well and press down firmly. This should help it stick together better and hold its shape.
How to fix a soggy filling or undercooked bars?
If your bars are soggy, bake them a bit longer. Test with a toothpick to check doneness. If they are undercooked, return to the oven for 5 more minutes.
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious pumpkin s’mores bars. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for perfecting your baking. You now have ideas for variations and storage options to keep your bars fresh.
These treats can be fun and easy to make. Feel free to customize them to fit your taste or diet. Enjoy baking and sharing this seasonal delight with friends and family!
