Name: Irresistible Pumpkin S’mores Bars for Cozy Fall Evenings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted); 1 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs; 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree; 1/2 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk; 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 large Egg; 1 cup Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips; 2 cups Mini Marshmallows

As the leaves start to turn and a crispness fills the air, there’s something magical about the season of pumpkin spice and cozy gatherings. My Pumpkin S’mores Bars embody the essence of fall, combining the luscious flavor of pumpkin puree with the rich allure of chocolate and the nostalgia of toasted marshmallows. This recipe is not only a fun twist on traditional s’mores, but it’s also a beginner-friendly baking adventure, making it perfect for both seasoned chefs and those just starting their culinary journey. The best part? These bars are sure to become the centerpiece of your fall gatherings, bringing warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Ready to indulge in a dessert that captures autumn’s spirit? Let’s get baking!

What Makes Pumpkin S’mores Bars Special?

Deliciously Unique: These Pumpkin S’mores Bars combine the beloved flavors of fall with a nostalgic classic, offering a delightful twist that will impress any crowd.

Beginner-Friendly: No fancy techniques needed here – just mix, layer, and bake! Perfect for both new bakers and seasoned pros looking for a fun project.

Time-Saving: Ready in just over 30 minutes, these bars are perfect for those cozy last-minute gatherings or lazy Sundays.

Irresistible Flavor: The blend of creamy pumpkin, rich chocolate, and toasted marshmallows creates a symphony of taste that’s both comforting and indulgent. Also, try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat!

Fall Essential: Capture the essence of autumn with this delightful dessert that is sure to become a go-to for any fall celebration. Don’t forget to check out my other fall favorites like Iced Pumpkin Cream or Pumpkin Cake Cozy for more seasonal delights!

Pumpkin S’mores Bars Ingredients

For the Crust

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and binds the crust; use margarine if you prefer.
Graham Cracker Crumbs – Forms a crisp and sweet base; try crushed vanilla wafers for a delightful twist.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust; brown sugar can add a deeper flavor profile.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors beautifully.

For the Pumpkin Layer

Canned Pumpkin Puree – Provides the signature pumpkin flavor and texture; fresh pumpkin works but may need adjustments for consistency.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds creaminess and sweetness; substitute with homemade milk and sugar mixture or evaporated milk with sugar.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses classic autumn flavors; feel free to adjust according to your spice preference.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
Large Egg – Acts as a binder for the pumpkin layer providing structure.

For the Topping

Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips – Offers a rich, chocolatey contrast; use dark or milk chocolate based on your taste.
Mini Marshmallows – Create a fluffy, toasted topping; regular marshmallows cut into smaller pieces or marshmallow fluff can also be used.

These delightful Pumpkin S’mores Bars are sure to bring warmth and joy to your fall gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin S’mores Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your baking adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This ensures your Pumpkin S’mores Bars will release easily after baking, leaving you with perfectly cut squares to share.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a medium-sized bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined—it should resemble wet sand. Using your fingers or a spatula, firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the greased baking pan, creating an even layer. This crust will be the delightful foundation for your pumpkin filling.

Step 3: Make the Pumpkin Filling
In another bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and the large egg until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Aim for a creamy consistency that is homogenous without lumps. Once combined, pour the pumpkin mixture evenly over your prepared graham cracker crust, ensuring it covers the entire base with a luscious layer.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips generously over the top of the pumpkin layer. Distribute them evenly, ensuring every bite of your Pumpkin S’mores Bars has that rich, chocolatey goodness. Use the back of a spoon to gently press them into the pumpkin layer, allowing some to mix in for a melty surprise.

Step 5: First Bake
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the chocolate chips begin to melt. Keep an eye on them, as you want a tantalizing golden color starting to form around the edges to signal that they are on their way to being perfectly baked.

Step 6: Add Marshmallows
After the initial baking, remove the pan from the oven, and immediately scatter the mini marshmallows evenly across the top. Their fluffy nature will soon transform into a beautifully toasted layer. Return the pan to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. Watch closely as the marshmallows turn golden brown, creating that delightful contrast of flavors.

Step 7: Cool and Cut
Once the marshmallows have reached that perfect toasty finish, take the pan out of the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling process is crucial for ensuring clean cuts. Once cool, use a sharp knife to cut the Pumpkin S’mores Bars into squares. Serve these delightful treats with a warm hug on chilly fall evenings.

What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Bars

Warm up your fall gatherings with delightful pairings that enhance the cozy flavors of your dessert.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful chill and creaminess that complements the warm flavors of pumpkin and chocolate. The contrast of temperatures is simply blissful.
Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: This comforting drink elevates the fall experience with its rich flavors. Sip it slowly alongside the bars for a truly indulgent treat on a chilly evening.
Toasted Pecans: Providing a crunchy texture, toasted pecans bring a nutty counterpart to the soft and gooey bars. They also add a lovely autumnal feeling to the dessert spread.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Unlike your usual coffee, this seasonal favorite enhances the pumpkin flavors in the bars, creating a harmonious relationship that is perfect for cozy coffee dates.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top makes for an extra indulgent finish. Consider sprinkling some cinnamon or nutmeg over it for a festive touch.
Apple Cider: Warm apple cider brings a fruity hint that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and spiced elements of your bars. The aromatic notes of cider will fill the room, creating a welcoming ambiance.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling a bit of melted chocolate over the top not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.

Exploring these pairings will elevate your Pumpkin S’mores Bars, creating a deliciously cozy experience perfect for celebrating the autumn season.

Storage Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Bars

Room Temperature: Store your Pumpkin S’mores Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and delicious flavor.

Fridge: If you plan to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving for the best taste!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating: If you prefer them warm, reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the melty marshmallows and rich chocolate once again!

Pumpkin S’mores Bars Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful bars to your taste and needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and sweetened condensed milk with canned coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free delight.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or almond flour to create a delightful crust that everyone can enjoy.
Sugar-Free: For a healthier twist, replace granulated sugar with your favorite sugar substitute and use sugar-free chocolate chips.
Nutty Crunch: Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust for a delightful crunch. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavors.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne or extra ginger into the pumpkin mixture for a warm, spicy surprise. It elevates the flavors perfectly!
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some caramel sauce into the pumpkin layer before adding chocolate chips for an indulgent, rich flavor twist. This adds both sweetness and a gooey texture.
Chocolate Lovers: Experiment by using dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips for contrast against the pumpkin layer. Each variation offers a unique flavor experience!

Feel free to explore these ideas and make this recipe your own! And if you’re in the mood for a cozy drink, pair these bars with a warm cup of Homemade Pumpkin Milk for a complete fall treat!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Bars

Melted Butter: Ensure the butter is completely melted for easy mixing; this helps combine the crust ingredients smoothly.
Crust Pressure: Press the graham cracker crust mixture firmly into the pan; a well-packed crust provides stability for the layers above.
Marshmallow Monitoring: Watch the marshmallows closely towards the end of baking to avoid burning; you want a golden brown, toasted top, not charred.
Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting; this ensures clean, even squares and prevents the filling from oozing out.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness; they can be refrigerated for up to a week.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices or add-ins; a pinch of cayenne in the pumpkin filling can spice things up delightfully while keeping the Pumpkin S’mores Bars unique!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin S’mores Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the fall season! You can prepare the graham cracker crust and the pumpkin filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the crust and let it cool in the pan, then cover tightly and refrigerate the pumpkin mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just spread the chilled pumpkin filling over the crust, sprinkle with chocolate chips, and pop it in the oven. Top with marshmallows during the last baking phase for that gorgeous golden finish. This way, you’ll have a delicious treat ready to share with minimal effort, keeping all flavors fresh and delightful!

Pumpkin S’mores Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pumpkin puree for Pumpkin S’mores Bars?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for 100% pure canned pumpkin without additives. Brands like Libby’s are popular for consistent results. If using fresh pumpkin, roast it until tender, scoop the flesh, and blend until smooth. Just be mindful that fresh puree may yield a slightly different texture compared to canned.

What is the best way to store Pumpkin S’mores Bars?
Very straightforward! Store your Pumpkin S’mores Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to allow them to come back to room temperature or warm them up slightly before serving to enjoy the textures fully!

Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Bars?
Definitely! To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, ensuring no air gets in. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight for the best texture. If you can’t resist, feel free to microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy the melty goodness!

What should I do if my crust is too crumbly or falls apart?
If your crust seems too crumbly, try adding a little extra melted butter (1-2 tablespoons) to help bind the crumbs together better. Ensure you’re pressing it down firmly into the pan; this usually aids in creating a more stable crust. If you’re still having trouble, consider using slightly less graham cracker crumbs as well.

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of for Pumpkin S’mores Bars?
Yes, indeed! If making these bars for someone with dietary restrictions, consider substituting the butter with a dairy-free alternative, and ensure you are using allergy-friendly chocolate chips. For those with gluten sensitivities, look for gluten-free graham cracker crumbs; they work wonderfully in this recipe!

Can I modify the ingredients to make these bars healthier?
Absolutely! You can use low-sugar sweetened condensed milk or even make your own with almond milk and a sweetener of choice. For a more wholesome twist, substitute some of the granulated sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar. Just be careful with liquid ratios if you’re adjusting the sugar components. Enjoy exploring flavors while making them healthier!