If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s cool, creamy, and hits every nostalgic note of childhood campfires, this Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe is going to steal your heart. Layers of silky chocolate pudding and fluffy marshmallow cream nestled between crispy graham crackers create a dreamy treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Best of all, these bars are served frozen, giving you a refreshing twist on the classic s’mores experience that’s perfect for warm days or any time you want a sweet escape.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, well-chosen ingredients come together to build the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your frozen s’mores bars. Each element plays a crucial role—whether it’s the lightness of whipped topping or the crunch of graham crackers—so gather these essentials for a foolproof dessert.
- Instant chocolate pudding mix (1 box, 3.9 oz): Provides a rich, smooth chocolate layer that thickens quickly and tastes indulgent.
- Cold milk (1¾ cups): The liquid base that activates the pudding mix and ensures a creamy consistency.
- Whipped topping (8 oz total, divided): Adds fluffy lightness to both chocolate and marshmallow layers, keeping the bars airy.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Brings tangy richness to the marshmallow layer for a balanced flavor profile.
- Marshmallow creme (7 oz jar): The hallmark of s’mores sweetness, contributing gooey sweetness without the need for roasting.
- Graham cracker sheets (16 sheets): The crunchy base and top layer that replicate classic s’mores texture with a delightful snap.
- Optional toppings: Crushed graham crackers, chocolate chips, or mini marshmallows can enhance presentation and add extra texture.
How to Make Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Layer
Start by whisking together the instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until the mixture thickens—this usually takes about 2 minutes. Once thick, gently fold in half of the whipped topping to transform the pudding into a luscious, airy chocolate layer. This combination forms the decadent chocolate middle of your bars.
Step 2: Make the Marshmallow Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth for that perfect creamy base. Add in the marshmallow creme and mix until everything is well blended and fluffy. Finally, fold in the remaining whipped topping. This creamy, dreamy marshmallow layer is what makes the bars light and sweet without heaviness.
Step 3: Assemble Your Bars
Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later. Place graham crackers in a single layer, covering the entire bottom of the dish. Spread the marshmallow mixture evenly over the crackers to create the soft, sweet middle layer. Next, carefully top this with the chocolate pudding mixture, smoothing it out gently. Finish by layering graham crackers on top and pressing down just a bit to keep everything snug.
Step 4: Freeze Until Firm
Cover your assembled bars and pop them into the freezer for at least 4 to 6 hours. This step is crucial to set the bars firmly so they maintain their shape when sliced and served frozen.
Step 5: Slice and Enjoy
Once the bars are frozen firm, lift them out using the edges of the parchment paper. Slice into 9 to 12 bars depending on your preferred size. Serve them straight from the freezer for a refreshingly sweet treat that perfectly captures the s’mores vibe!
How to Serve Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of fun, sprinkle crushed graham crackers or mini marshmallows on top just before serving. Chocolate chips add a delightful crunch and enhance the chocolaty goodness, making your bars look stunning and inviting.
Side Dishes
Frozen s’mores bars pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee or tea for contrast. Fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also complement the rich, frozen texture while keeping the dessert light and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these bars on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra toppings nearby so guests can customize their desserts. Alternatively, presentation in individual clear boxes with a ribbon makes them an adorable party favor or gift. For a playful twist, stick a popsicle stick into each square before freezing to create frozen s’mores pops.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe securely wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the freezer. This prevents freezer burn and preserves their layered texture and flavors perfectly for up to one week.
Freezing
These bars freeze wonderfully thanks to their pudding and whipped topping base. Just make sure they are covered well to avoid absorbing any freezer odors. When you’re ready to enjoy, there’s no need to thaw completely—serving them very cold keeps the best texture.
Reheating
Since these bars are intended to be eaten frozen, reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a softer texture, leave them at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before serving, but they are at their best when icy and firm.
FAQs
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of marshmallow creme?
Marshmallow creme blends smoothly and keeps the marshmallow layer creamy without lumps, which can be harder to achieve with regular marshmallows. If you prefer to melt marshmallows, it requires a little extra time and technique, but marshmallow creme is a convenient shortcut that delivers the perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can try substituting dairy-free pudding mix, whipped toppings, and cream cheese alternatives made from coconut or almond milk. Just keep in mind the texture and taste might slightly differ from the original, but it may still be delicious.
How long do Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe last in the freezer?
Properly stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly, these bars will keep their best quality for about one week. Beyond that, they may start to develop freezer burn or off-flavors.
Can I make these bars without instant pudding mix?
The instant pudding mix is key for the quick-setting, smooth chocolate layer. Without it, the texture changes significantly. You might try making a homemade chocolate pudding from scratch, but it requires more time and careful cooling before assembly.
What size baking dish should I use?
An 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish works perfectly, giving you the ideal thickness for each layer. Using a larger pan will result in thinner bars, while a smaller pan will make them extra thick and indulgent.
Final Thoughts
This Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe is a sheer delight that transforms the classic campfire treat into a refreshingly cool dessert with creamy layers and crunchy graham crackers. It’s simple to make, fun to share, and perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without stressing. Give this recipe a try and watch these bars become your new go-to dessert for summer parties or cozy nights indoors!
Print
Frozen S’mores Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 9 to 12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delightful Frozen S’mores dessert featuring layers of creamy chocolate pudding and fluffy marshmallow cream sandwiched between crunchy graham crackers. This no-bake treat is perfect for a cool, refreshing twist on a classic campfire favorite, served straight from the freezer in easy-to-serve bars.
Ingredients
Chocolate Layer
- 1 box (3.9 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 1¾ cups cold milk
- 4 oz (½ container) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
Marshmallow Layer
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
- 4 oz (½ container) whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
Assembly
- 16 graham cracker sheets
- Optional toppings: crushed graham crackers, chocolate chips, mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Make chocolate layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Gently fold in half of the whipped topping until smooth. Set this chocolate layer aside.
- Make marshmallow layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the marshmallow creme and mix well until fully combined. Carefully fold in the remaining whipped topping to create a light and fluffy marshmallow mixture.
- Assemble: Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. Arrange graham crackers in a single layer covering the bottom of the dish. Spread the marshmallow mixture evenly over the graham crackers. Next, layer the chocolate pudding mixture on top and smooth it out evenly. Finish by adding another layer of graham crackers on top and gently press down to compact the layers.
- Freeze: Cover the assembled dish and place it in the freezer for at least 4 to 6 hours, or until the bars are firm enough to slice cleanly.
- Slice and serve: Use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the frozen block from the dish. Slice into 9 to 12 bars and serve immediately while frozen. Optionally, sprinkle with crushed graham crackers, chocolate chips, or mini marshmallows for extra texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth marshmallow layer.
- Use cold milk when preparing the pudding mix for best thickening results.
- Allow sufficient freezing time to make slicing easier and keep bars intact.
- Customize toppings based on preference, such as adding a drizzle of melted chocolate.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week.
