Stepping into a cozy kitchen filled with the aroma of warm spices instantly brings the essence of fall to life, doesn’t it? These Pumpkin S’mores Bars are a delightful fusion that elevates seasonal treats with a creative twist. With their creamy pumpkin filling and layers of gooey marshmallows, they’re not just a dessert; they’re a slice of autumn nostalgia. What makes this beginner-friendly recipe a must-try is how effortlessly it merges rich chocolate and crunchy graham cracker goodness into one impressive bar. Plus, they’re easily adaptable to gluten-free diets, ensuring that everyone can indulge. So, are you ready to recreate this comforting fall masterpiece that will have everyone swooning? Let’s dive in!
Why Make Pumpkin S’mores Bars?
Irresistible Flavor: The cozy blend of pumpkin, chocolate, and toasted marshmallows sings fall in every bite.
Beginner-Friendly: Easy to follow instructions make this dessert perfect for cooks of all levels.
Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap in gluten-free graham crackers to cater to dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in, these bars will impress family and friends.
Effortless Adaptations: Customize with your favorite nuts or different chocolate types to make them uniquely yours.
Get excited to try this delectable treat; you can even serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or drizzle of caramel for added decadence!
Pumpkin S’mores Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
- Unsalted Butter – 1 cup; provides rich moisture that binds the crust; can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs – 2 cups; forms the crunchy base of the bars; use gluten-free graham crackers to make the recipe gluten-free.
- Granulated Sugar – 1/4 cup; adds sweetness to the crust; feel free to reduce slightly if desired.
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon; enhances flavor; ensure to use fine-grain salt for even distribution.
For the Filling
- Canned Pumpkin Puree – 1 cup; offers distinct pumpkin flavor and creamy texture; fresh pumpkin can be used if cooked and puréed until smooth.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – 1 cup; provides creaminess and sweetness to the filling; substitute with vegan condensed milk for a dairy-free option.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – 2 teaspoons; infuses the filling with warm flavors; use a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger as a substitute.
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; rounds out the flavors in the filling; artificial vanilla can also be used.
- Large Egg – 1; binds ingredients and helps set the filling; can replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
For the Topping
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – 2 cups; adds rich chocolatey goodness; dark or milk chocolate can be substituted based on preference.
- Mini Marshmallows – 2 cups; creates the gooey topping reminiscent of traditional s’mores; stay puffed marshmallows ensure better toasting.
Are you ready to gather these ingredients and create your own delightful pumpkin s’mores bars? Let the baking begin!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin S’mores Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the baking pan. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures that your Pumpkin S’mores Bars will easily come out once baked, retaining their perfect texture and shape.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of melted unsalted butter, 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir until well integrated into a moist mixture. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the greased baking pan to create an even crust that will serve as the base of your delicious bars.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 large egg until smooth and creamy. This combination will create the luscious filling for your Pumpkin S’mores Bars, so ensure there are no lumps before you proceed to the next step.
Step 4: Combine Pumpkin Mixture and Crust
Carefully pour the silky pumpkin filling over the graham cracker crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface. This layer should cover your crust completely, ensuring that each bite of the Pumpkin S’mores Bars is filled with delicious flavor and smooth texture, ready for the next layer.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Chips
Sprinkle 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the pumpkin layer. Gently press them down slightly so they will meld into the filling during baking. This rich layer of chocolate will add a decadent touch to your Pumpkin S’mores Bars and enhance the fall flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Bake the Bars
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s time to check when the edges of the pumpkin filling are slightly set, creating a gentle wobble in the center. The initial bake helps solidify the layers and is crucial for the next steps.
Step 7: Add Marshmallows
Remove the baking pan carefully from the oven and scatter 2 cups of mini marshmallows evenly over the top. Spread them out to cover as much of the surface as possible. The marshmallows will become golden and perfectly toasted, transforming your Pumpkin S’mores Bars into a delightful treat.
Step 8: Final Bake
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes. Keep a watchful eye on the marshmallows; they should puff up and turn golden brown but not burn. This finishing step elevates the flavor and texture, making your bars irresistibly gooey and sweet.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing the bars to cool will help them set and make slicing easier. Once cool, cut them into squares and serve your delightful Pumpkin S’mores Bars as a perfect fall dessert!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Bars
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Watch the Marshmallows: Keep an eye on the marshmallows during the last bake to prevent burning; they can go from perfectly toasted to charred quickly.
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Crispier Crust: Consider pre-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling to achieve a crispier texture that stands up to the creamy pumpkin.
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Cool Completely: Allow the Pumpkin S’mores Bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing to ensure clean cuts and perfect presentation.
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Adjust Sweetness: If you’re sensitive to sweetness, feel free to reduce the granulated sugar slightly in the crust without compromising the flavor.
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Make it Your Own: Experiment with different chocolate types or add chopped nuts to create a personalized version of these delicious bars.
What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Bars?
Elevate your dessert game with these delightful treats and accompaniments that capture the cozy spirit of fall, turning a simple bar into a memorable experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delightful contrast to the warm bars, enhancing their decadent flavor.
- Hot Chocolate: A steaming cup of rich hot chocolate complements the chocolatey goodness in the bars, making for a comforting duo perfect for chilly evenings.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the bars to add a sweet touch that beautifully enhances the pumpkin flavor.
- Chai Tea: This aromatic, spiced tea brings out the warm notes in the pumpkin bars, creating an inviting setting perfect for sipping and savoring.
- Roasted Pecans: Crunchy roasted pecans introduce a savory element, adding both texture and flavor that pair wonderfully with the creamy pumpkin filling.
- Apple Cider: Serve with a glass of warm apple cider to tie in traditional fall flavors, creating a festive atmosphere that invites cozy gatherings.
Enjoying Pumpkin S’mores Bars with these delicious sides and drinks will make your seasonal treats feel all the more special.
Storage Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Bars
Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped or stored in a sealed container.
Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the Pumpkin S’mores Bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: Warm individual bars in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to enjoy that gooey, melty marshmallow goodness all over again!
Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin S’mores Bars
Customize your Pumpkin S’mores Bars to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, creating a delightful treat for everyone!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers instead of traditional ones to make these bars accessible for those on a gluten-free diet.
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Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use vegan condensed milk.
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Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the crust for added texture and flavor. The crunch complements the creamy filling beautifully.
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Seasonal Spices: Swap out the pumpkin pie spice for apple pie spice for a delightful twist that captures the essence of fall in a different way. It’s aromatic and comforting!
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Chocolate Variation: Experiment with white chocolate or dark chocolate in place of semi-sweet chocolate chips to match your sweetness preference. Each variety brings a unique flavor!
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Extra Sweetness: Drizzle warm caramel sauce or chocolate ganache over the top before serving for an indulgent touch that echoes classic s’mores charm.
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Kick It Up a Notch: For those who love a bit of heat, mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or chipotle chili powder into the pumpkin filling for a surprising spicy kick that enhances flavors.
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Toasted Coconut: Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top with the marshmallows for an unexpected tropical flair that complements the pumpkin!
Don’t hesitate to unleash your creativity with these suggestions. If you’re looking for inspiration, try pairing these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat, and make these Pumpkin S’mores Bars your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin S’mores Bars are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance by making the crust and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the pumpkin filling and keep it stored separately for the same timeframe. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the filling over the crust and add the chocolate chips before baking. For best results, bake the marshmallows fresh just before serving to ensure they remain gooey and fluffy. This method allows you to enjoy a delightful dessert without the stress of last-minute preparation!
Pumpkin S’mores Bars Recipe FAQs
What kind of pumpkin should I use?
Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is perfect for this recipe because it’s smooth and consistently sweet. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just cook it, scoop out the flesh, and purée it until smooth.
How should I store leftover Pumpkin S’mores Bars?
To keep your Pumpkin S’mores Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Just ensure they’re wrapped tightly or in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Bars?
Definitely! To freeze your bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for the best results.
Why are my marshmallows not toasting evenly?
Very common! If your marshmallows are not toasting evenly, it might be due to overcrowding them on top of the bars. Ensure they’re evenly spaced so hot air can circulate around them. Also, keep a close eye during the final bake; they can toast quickly!
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute regular graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of these Pumpkin S’mores Bars that everyone can enjoy.
Are there any allergies I should consider?
If you’re serving these bars to others, consider potential allergies to eggs, dairy, or gluten. As a substitute for the egg, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes until thick). For a nut-free option, ensure your chocolate chips do not contain traces of nuts.
Enjoy experimenting and creating this fall delight!
Pumpkin S'mores Bars: Your New Favorite Fall Dessert Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt. Press into the bottom of the baking pan.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin filling over the crust and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips over the pumpkin layer and gently press down.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until edges are slightly set.
- Remove from oven and scatter mini marshmallows on top.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until marshmallows are golden.
- Cool completely before cutting into squares.
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