Introduction:
Golden Grahams S’Mores Bars bring all the nostalgic flavors of campfire s’mores into an easy, no-bake treat that you can enjoy anytime. Made with Golden Grahams cereal, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate, these bars capture the essence of s’mores—sweet, crunchy, and chocolatey—without the need for a campfire. Perfect for parties, picnics, or an everyday snack, these bars are quick to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
The History of Golden Grahams S’Mores Bars:
The idea of combining Golden Grahams cereal with classic s’mores ingredients like marshmallows and chocolate began to gain popularity in the late 20th century, as cereal companies and home cooks experimented with new recipes. Golden Grahams, a cereal introduced by General Mills in 1976, provided a convenient, crunchy alternative to graham crackers, allowing the creation of a s’mores-inspired treat that could be made quickly and enjoyed without a campfire. Today, Golden Grahams S’Mores Bars are a beloved no-bake dessert, enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- Base:
- 7 cups of Golden Grahams cereal: Provides the signature crunch and graham cracker flavor.
- 5 cups of mini marshmallows, divided: Used to bind the cereal together and provide gooey, chewy texture.
- 1 ½ cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds the rich chocolatey flavor of traditional s’mores.
- ¼ cup of light corn syrup: Helps create a sticky, cohesive texture and adds sweetness.
- ¼ cup of unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Prepare the Pan:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Set aside.
- Melt the Marshmallows and Chocolate:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and corn syrup together.
- Add 4 cups of the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are completely melted and smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and 1 cup of chocolate chips, mixing until the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated.
- Combine with Cereal:
- In a large mixing bowl, pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the Golden Grahams cereal. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat all of the cereal pieces.
- Add the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of mini marshmallows, and gently fold them into the mixture.
- Press into the Pan:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing it down evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to compact the bars.
- Cool and Set:
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature for at least 1-2 hours or refrigerate for about 30 minutes until firm and set.
- Cut and Serve:
- Once set, cut the Golden Grahams S’Mores Bars into squares and serve. Enjoy the gooey, crunchy goodness!
Tips for the Perfect Golden Grahams S’Mores Bars:
- Use Fresh Marshmallows: Fresh marshmallows will melt more easily and smoothly, creating a better texture.
- Do Not Overheat: When melting the marshmallows and chocolate, keep the heat at medium and stir constantly to avoid burning.
- Work Quickly: Once the marshmallow mixture is melted, work quickly to combine it with the cereal before it sets.
- Line the Pan with Parchment Paper: This makes it easier to remove the bars from the pan and prevents sticking.
- Customize the Chocolate: Use milk, dark, or even white chocolate chips to customize the flavor.
Variations and Customizations:
- Peanut Butter S’Mores Bars: Add ½ cup of peanut butter to the melted marshmallow mixture for a delicious peanut butter twist.
- S’Mores Bars with Pretzels: Mix in 1 cup of crushed pretzels for an extra salty crunch.
- Triple Chocolate S’Mores Bars: Use a combination of milk, semi-sweet, and dark chocolate chips for a rich, layered chocolate flavor.
- Mint Chocolate S’Mores Bars: Add 1 teaspoon of mint extract to the marshmallow mixture and use mint chocolate chips for a refreshing twist.
- Nutty S’Mores Bars: Stir in ½ cup of chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for added crunch and flavor.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:
Golden Grahams S’Mores Bars are a deliciously indulgent treat but are high in sugar and calories. To lighten up the recipe:
- Use dark chocolate chips with a high cocoa content to reduce added sugar.
- Substitute light marshmallows or use a sugar-free alternative.
- Use whole-grain Golden Grahams to add a bit more fiber.
FAQ:
- Can I make Golden Grahams S’Mores Bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. - How do I store Golden Grahams S’Mores Bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator. - Can I freeze Golden Grahams S’Mores Bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container.
Golden Grahams S’Mores Bars
Ingredients
- 6 cups Golden Grahams
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 1 1/2 cups Chocolate Chips
- 5 cups Mini-Marshmallows + 2 Additional Cups
- 1/4 cup Light Karo Syrup
- 1 tsp Vanilla
Instructions
- Spray 9 x 13 pan with non-stick spray. Set aside.
- Pour Golden Grahams into a large bowl and set aside.
- Melt butter in a large sauce pan over low heat. Stir in chocolate chips, 5 cups mini-marshmallows, light Karo syrup, and vanilla.
- Continuously stir until smooth and melted together.
- Immediately pour over Golden Grahams and stir until evenly coated. Stir in additional 2 cups of mini-marshmallows.
- Press mixture evenly into pan. Sprinkle top with additional mini-marshmallows if desired.