MEMORIAL DAY is almost upon us, and you know what that means! It’s time for some grillin’, chillin’ and fun in the sun! Hi, it’s Carrie Sellman from Half Baked, the cake blog for sweet inspiration. I’m thrilled to be back today, sharing a fun update on a classic all-American treat… s’mores!

Baked as a bar cookie, these oven s’mores meet my two basic party-food requirements. They can be made in advance (check) and will easily serve a crowd (check, check). A traditional graham cracker crust is baked until golden and topped with a silky smooth chocolate cream. And what’s a Memorial Day treat without some patriotic pride? Star shaped marshmallows in red, white and blue give these s’more a festive flair. Liven up your backyard BBQ with these patriotic Star Spangled S’mores Bars.

{PATRIOTIC} STAR SPANGLED S’MORES BARS

by Carrie Sellman
makes 24 squares

Ingredients:

• 18 graham cracker sheets
• 8 tablespoons butter, melted
• 3 cups milk chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 package Kraft Jet Puffed Star Marshmallows

Step by Step Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9 x 13” pan with parchment paper so that the paper hangs over the edge on the long sides of the pan. (Later, this will help you remove the bars from the pan in one piece.) Lightly coat pan and parchment with non-stick cooking spray.

2. Crush graham crackers in food processor until fine. Melt butter in large microwave-safe bowl. Add graham cracker crumbs to butter and stir until combined.

3. Evenly press crumb mixture into the bottom of your baking pan to create crust. Bake 12 – 15 minutes until golden. Remove and let cool.

4. Melt chocolate and cream in large bowl in microwave. Heat for 30 seconds on 50% power. Remove and stir. Heat again. Stir. Repeat until chocolate is completely melted, shiny and smooth. Do not rush this process! Let cool for a few moments.

6. Pour chocolate onto crust and smooth to create an even layer.

7. Top with star marshmallows, arranging a single layer of marshmallows with a little space between each star. Stars will grow and spread slightly when roasted.

8. Place under broiler in oven for 60 – 90 seconds to toast marshmallows. Watch closely to prevent burning! Remove and let cool.

9. Chill in refrigerator for 4 hours or overnight. Pull up on parchment paper to remove bars from pan. Cut into squares to serve.

TIPS:

– Kraft Jet Puffed Star Marshmallows were found at Target. The bag contains red, white and blue stars in various sizes.
– You can also crush your graham crackers using a sealed ziplock bag and a rolling pin.
– These bars are deliciously rich. So cut them into small squares that everyone will enjoy!
– Watch closely when toasting the marshmallows in the oven. This happens quickly and will vary by oven. Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
– Store in refrigerator. Cut when cold. Serve at room temperature.

Wishing you clear skies for a festive & “star spangled” Memorial Day weekend!

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