Pumpkin S’mores Bars

Introduction

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with Pumpkin S’mores Bars! This delicious dessert combines the creamy richness of pumpkin and the nostalgic essence of s’mores into a convenient bar form. Perfect for autumn gatherings, these bars will satisfy your sweet tooth while bringing warmth and comfort. Serve them at your next get-together, and watch as they disappear quickly!

As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, there’s something undeniably comforting about baking with pumpkin. I remember the first time I made these bars for a cozy gathering with friends. The moment I pulled them out of the oven, the warm, inviting aroma of pumpkin spice filled the room, instantly creating a sense of nostalgia and comfort.

The buttery graham cracker crust provided a perfect base, while the velvety pumpkin filling brought the essence of fall into every bite. Topped with gooey marshmallows and melted chocolate, they embodied the classic flavors of s’mores, evoking memories of summer campfires and laughter under the stars.

As we gathered around the table, I watched my friends’ eyes light up with anticipation. One bite, and they were hooked! The combination of creamy pumpkin, sweet chocolate, and toasty marshmallows created a heavenly experience that was hard to resist.

These Pumpkin S’mores Bars became a staple in our fall festivities, bringing people together over shared memories and delicious flavors. Whether enjoyed at a harvest party, a Halloween gathering, or simply as an after-school treat, they are a delightful way to embrace the season. So grab your baking dish, and let the flavors of fall warm your heart and home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Pumpkin S’mores Bars will become a favorite:

• Fall Flavor Fusion: Pumpkin S’mores Bars beautifully combine the rich, warm flavors of pumpkin with the classic s’mores experience, making them perfect for autumn gatherings.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are a breeze to prepare, ensuring you can whip them up even on busy days.
• Decadent Texture: The combination of creamy pumpkin filling and a gooey marshmallow topping creates a delightful contrast in textures that’s irresistibly satisfying.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, these bars are great for sharing at potlucks, parties, or family gatherings, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of this delicious treat.
• Versatile Dessert: They can be served warm or chilled, making them a versatile option for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive holiday celebrations.
• Great for Meal Prep: These bars store well in the refrigerator, allowing you to make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week as a tasty snack or dessert.
• Kid-Friendly: Pumpkin S’mores Bars are fun and appealing to children, making them a perfect treat to enjoy with the family or to bring to school events.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or spices, to personalize your bars.
• A Creative Twist on Classic S’mores: These bars take the traditional s’mores to the next level, offering a new and exciting way to enjoy a beloved flavor combination.
• Nostalgic Comfort: Enjoying a bite of these Pumpkin S’mores Bars will remind you of cozy bonfire nights, bringing a sense of nostalgia while introducing a delightful seasonal twist.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12 bars
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 2g, Fat: 9g, Carbohydrates: 30g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Pumpkin S’mores Bars:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Pumpkin Filling:

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs

Topping:

• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• Additional graham cracker crumbs (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Pumpkin Puree: The star of the dessert, providing a rich, creamy texture and seasonal flavor.
• Graham Crackers: A classic base that adds sweetness and crunch to the bars.
• Marshmallows and Chocolate: These give the signature s’mores experience, making the dessert truly irresistible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Pumpkin S’mores Bars:

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
3. Press Into Pan: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.

Make the Pumpkin Filling

1. Combine Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and eggs until smooth.
2. Pour Filling Over Crust: Pour the pumpkin mixture evenly over the pre-baked graham cracker crust.

Bake the Bars

1. Bake: Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly browned.
2. Add Toppings: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips evenly over the top.
3. Finish Baking: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.

Cool and Serve

1. Cool: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
2. Slice and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your Pumpkin S’mores Bars:

1. Warm Up: Serve the Pumpkin S’mores Bars slightly warm for a gooey texture that enhances the marshmallow flavor.
2. Garnish with Whipped Cream: Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and a festive touch.
3. Pair with Hot Drinks: Serve alongside hot cocoa, pumpkin spice latte, or warm apple cider to complement the fall flavors.
4. Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on top adds an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.
5. Add a Sprinkle of Cinnamon: Dust with cinnamon or pumpkin spice before serving for an aromatic finish.
6. Use Festive Plates: Present the bars on colorful, themed plates to enhance the seasonal atmosphere during gatherings.
7. Slice into Fun Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut the bars into fun shapes for a whimsical touch, especially for kids’ parties.
8. Serve with Ice Cream: Offer a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
9. Provide Additional Toppings: Set out toppings like chopped nuts, crushed graham crackers, or extra marshmallows for guests to customize their bars.
10. Create a Dessert Platter: Serve the bars on a large platter with other fall treats, such as pumpkin pie, caramel apples, or pecan pie, for a festive dessert spread.

Additional Tips

Make the most of your Pumpkin S’mores Bars with these helpful tips:

1. Use Fresh Pumpkin: For a richer flavor, consider using fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. Just roast and blend your pumpkin until smooth.
2. Experiment with Graham Cracker Crusts: Try different flavored graham crackers, like honey or chocolate, to add a unique twist to the crust.
3. Add Spices: Enhance the flavor by mixing in spices like nutmeg, ginger, or allspice with the pumpkin puree for a more complex taste.
4. Chill Before Serving: Let the bars cool completely and then refrigerate for a couple of hours. This will make them easier to cut and serve.
5. Top with Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before serving can balance the sweetness and add a gourmet touch.
6. Use Mini Marshmallows: If you prefer a more even distribution of marshmallow, use mini marshmallows instead of large ones.
7. Drizzle with Chocolate: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the bars for an extra indulgent touch.
8. Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute regular graham crackers with gluten-free versions to make these bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
9. Serve with Ice Cream: Pair the bars with a scoop of vanilla or pumpkin ice cream for a delightful dessert combination.
10. Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness, and consume them within a few days.

Recipe Variations

Experiment with these variations for your Pumpkin S’mores Bars:

• Chocolate Variations: Use different types of chocolate, such as dark, milk, or white chocolate, for a unique flavor twist.
• Nut Butter Swirl: Add a swirl of almond or peanut butter into the pumpkin mixture for added creaminess and flavor.
• Graham Cracker Crust Alternatives: Substitute graham crackers with crushed cookies like Oreos, digestive biscuits, or even a gluten-free cracker for a different base.
• Marshmallow Topping: Experiment with flavored marshmallows, like pumpkin spice or caramel, for an extra burst of flavor.
• Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Layer: Incorporate a cheesecake layer by mixing cream cheese, sugar, and pumpkin puree for a rich texture.
• Add Nuts: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the pumpkin layer for added crunch and nutrition.
• Coconut Flakes: Mix in shredded coconut into the pumpkin filling or sprinkle on top for a tropical twist.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving for added sweetness and richness.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream to create a delicious vegan version of these bars.
• Spiced Variations: Experiment with different spices, such as ginger, nutmeg, or allspice, to create a unique flavor profile in the pumpkin filling.

Freezing and Storage

Properly storing your bars ensures they stay fresh for later enjoyment:

• Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to maintain texture.

Special Equipment

You may need these kitchen tools for making your Pumpkin S’mores Bars:

• 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: A standard size for even baking and easy serving.
• Mixing Bowls: Various sizes for mixing ingredients like crust, filling, and toppings.
• Electric Mixer: Useful for creaming the butter and sugar smoothly.
• Rubber Spatula: Essential for folding ingredients and scraping down the sides of bowls.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement tools for precise ingredient ratios.
• Parchment Paper: For lining the baking dish to prevent sticking and for easy removal.
• Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: For cutting the bars into neat squares after baking.
• Cooling Rack: Allows the bars to cool evenly before slicing and serving.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting chocolate or toasting marshmallows if needed.
• Whisk: Handy for mixing dry ingredients and ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.

FAQ Section

Here are answers to some common questions about Pumpkin S’mores Bars:

• Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
  Yes, fresh pumpkin can be used; just ensure it’s cooked and pureed smoothly.
• What if I don’t have graham crackers?
  You can substitute with crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits.
• Can I make these bars gluten-free?
  Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham crackers to make them gluten-free.
• How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?
  Keep an eye on them while baking and remove them once they are golden brown.
• What can I use as a topping?
  Consider using crushed nuts, chocolate chips, or whipped cream as toppings.

Print

Conclusion

Pumpkin S’mores Bars are a delightful blend of flavors that celebrate the essence of fall. With a creamy pumpkin filling, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate, these bars create a dessert that is both comforting and delicious.

Perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat for yourself, this easy-to-make recipe is a joy to eat. Indulge in the season with this unique dessert, and enjoy every bite of these scrumptious bars that are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!

I can’t wait to see how your Pumpkin S’mores Bars turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your delicious creations! Happy baking!