Get ready for your new fall dessert obsession: Pumpkin S’mores Bars bring together all the best parts of autumn baking and nostalgic campfire treats in one gooey, irresistible bite! Imagine the rich flavors of pumpkin and warm spices melding into a soft, chewy cookie base, swirled with rivers of melty chocolate and puddles of marshmallow. Whether you’re sharing them at a cozy gathering or sneaking one for yourself with a mug of coffee, these bars promise sweet comfort and a little taste of childhood magic. There’s something about the combination of pumpkin, chocolate, and marshmallow that makes Pumpkin S’mores Bars the ultimate treat you never knew you needed—until now!

Pumpkin S'mores Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Pumpkin S’mores Bars is how a few pantry staples and just the right blend of flavors come together to create pure bliss. Each ingredient plays a special role, from adding a hint of pumpkin spice to creating that perfect, gooey marshmallow center. Here’s what you’ll need (and a little tip for each one!):

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): This gives the bars their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture—make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Light brown sugar (2/3 cup): Adds a caramel-like sweetness and keeps every bite soft and chewy.
Pumpkin puree (1/4 cup + 2 tbsp): Provides moistness and earthy, subtle flavor that makes these bars so uniquely fall-worthy.
Large egg (1): Helps the bars hold together and gives them structure—room temperature is best for easy blending.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the marshmallow and chocolate flavors for an extra cozy dessert.
All-purpose or gluten-free flour (1 cup): Your choice! Either way, the result is the same: sturdy yet tender bars.
Pumpkin pie spice (2 tsp): The blend of warming spices brings classic autumn aroma and flavor in every bite.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavor—don’t skip it.
Baking powder (1/4 tsp): Helps the bars rise just enough to stay soft and thick.
Baking soda (1/4 tsp): Works with the baking powder for just the right lift and golden color.
Semisweet chocolate chips or chunks (1 cup): Pick dairy-free if needed—these create that essential s’mores gooey chocolate factor.
Marshmallow creme/fluff (1/2 cup) or mini marshmallows (1 cup, divided): For that classic toasted s’mores vibe, choose your favorite or use both for extra fun.

How to Make Pumpkin S’mores Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by setting your oven to 375 degrees for that just-right bake. Lightly spray an 8×8-inch pan with cooking oil or baking spray to ensure your Pumpkin S’mores Bars slide out easily—no sticking means perfect squares every time!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Use a stand or hand mixer (or some old-school elbow grease!) to beat the softened butter and light brown sugar together until fluffy and pale, taking about a minute. This step gives your bars an airy, tender crumb and deep flavor—totally worth the extra minute!

Step 3: Add Pumpkin, Egg, and Vanilla

Next, blend in the pumpkin puree, a large egg, and vanilla extract. Mix just until combined for that lush, golden batter. You’ll notice the mixture turning a dreamy pumpkin orange—this is what makes these bars a showstopper!

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. This ensures everything is evenly distributed, so your Pumpkin S’mores Bars bake up beautifully with no surprise pockets of spice or leavening.

Step 5: Combine and Add Chocolate Chips

Add your whisked dry ingredients into the wet mixture and gently mix, stopping as soon as all the flour is absorbed—overmixing leads to tough bars. Fold in those glorious chocolate chips or chunks with a wooden spoon, reserving a few for the top if you’re feeling fancy.

Step 6: Layer and Add Marshmallows

Spread about 3/4 of the cookie batter evenly in your prepared pan, saving around 1/4 cup for later. This is your base! Next, gently cover the dough with marshmallow creme or fluff, spreading it as best you can. If some swirls into the dough, that’s even better for flavor and texture.

Step 7: Top with the Rest

Dollop the reserved cookie dough across the marshmallow layer—it doesn’t need to cover it completely. Those little pockets of cookie on top will bake into golden, gooey perfection. If you’re using mini marshmallows, simply sprinkle the reserved handful and extra chocolate chips right on top.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The bars should look puffed and golden, with a toothpick inserted near the center coming out mostly clean (a bit of marshmallow and chocolate is a good sign!). The bars set up as they cool, so resist the urge to dig in too soon.

Step 9: Cool and Cut

Let your Pumpkin S’mores Bars cool completely in the pan. They’ll be extra gooey if you try to cut them too soon, but once set, you’ll have gorgeous, marshmallow-streaked bars with just the right chew.

How to Serve Pumpkin S’mores Bars

Garnishes

A drizzle of melted chocolate on top, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a final dusting of crushed graham crackers can take your Pumpkin S’mores Bars from delicious to showstopping. These garnishes add texture, a little sparkle, and a pop of indulgence with every bite!

Side Dishes

Since Pumpkin S’mores Bars are already rich and full of flavor, pair them with something simple and refreshing. Fresh apple slices, a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, or a warm, spiced chai latte make for dreamy companions. They balance out the dessert and add another layer of cozy fun.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bars into small squares and stack them on a rustic wooden board for a buffet-style treat, or wrap individual pieces in parchment and twine for a sweet gift. You can even warm up each bar, add a scoop of ice cream, and make it a “s’mores sundae” for a whimsical dessert to impress your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pumpkin S’mores Bars keep well in a covered container at room temperature for up to three days. For that signature gooey texture, you can refresh a piece with a quick zap in the microwave—about 10 seconds will do the trick and have those marshmallows melting again.

Freezing

To freeze, lay the bars in a single layer (or use parchment between layers) in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature before eating, or gently warm in the microwave for an instant treat.

Reheating

Bring those bars back to life by microwaving each square for 10–15 seconds. The marshmallow will regain its gooeyness and the chocolate will get that irresistible, just-melted quality. Perfect for second-day snacking or sharing at a last-minute get-together!

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?

Absolutely! If your homemade pumpkin puree is on the watery side, strain it a bit before measuring so your Pumpkin S’mores Bars don’t come out too soft. Either way, fresh or canned, the pumpkin flavor will shine.

What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?

Let them cool completely in the pan, then use a sharp knife lightly greased or dipped in warm water. Wipe the blade between cuts for crisp, picture-perfect squares every time.

Does this recipe work with gluten-free flour?

Yes! Use your favorite 1-for-1 gluten-free flour blend. The bars are so moist and flavorful, you won’t miss the wheat flour at all—just confirm your chocolate and marshmallows are gluten-free as well.

Can I add graham crackers to the recipe?

Why not! Crushed graham crackers sprinkled on top or even swirled into the batter can boost the s’mores experience. For extra crunch, add a graham crust or layer before the cookie dough.

How do I know when the Pumpkin S’mores Bars are fully baked?

They’re done when the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Remember, the marshmallow and chocolate might stick to the tester, but that’s what makes these bars so magical!

Final Thoughts

There’s something about Pumpkin S’mores Bars that just captures the heart of fall and the fun of campfires all in one pan. I can’t wait for you to share them with your friends and family—and maybe just keep a secret stash for yourself. Give them a try, and let these bars become your new signature autumn treat!

Pumpkin S’mores Bars Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 28 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Pumpkin S’mores Bars are a delightful twist on the classic s’mores treat, combining the flavors of pumpkin, chocolate, and gooey marshmallows in a delicious bar form.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly spray an 8×8-inch pan with cooking oil or baking spray.
Cream butter and sugar: Using a stand or hand mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 1 minute.
Add wet ingredients: Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla until just combined.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Add to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
Add chocolate chips: Stir in the chocolate chips with a wooden spoon.
Layer the batter: Spread most of the cookie batter into the pan, reserving some for the top.
Add marshmallow layer: Spread marshmallow creme on top of the cookie dough, then sprinkle more chocolate chips on top.
Top with remaining dough: Place chunks of the remaining cookie dough on top of the marshmallow layer.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
Cool and cut: Let the bars cool in the pan before cutting into squares. For best results, cool completely before serving.
Storage: Store leftovers in a covered container and reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy again.

Notes

Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting to allow them to set.
Feel free to customize with additional mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
For a fun variation, try using graham cracker crumbs in the cookie dough.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 220
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 140mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Pumpkin S’mores Bars, Pumpkin Dessert, Fall Baking Recipe