Gooey Peeps Smores Bars Recipe Perfect for Easter

Imagine this: the sweet scent of toasted marshmallows mixing with melty chocolate wafting from your oven. The colorful pastel hues of marshmallow Peeps peek out, promising gooey goodness with every bite. That’s exactly what you’ll get when you whip up these Gooey Peeps S’mores Bars. They’re not just a dessert—they’re a memory in the making, a celebration of Easter and everything joyful. The first time I made these, my kitchen turned into a hub of happiness, with my kids eagerly awaiting their turn to snag a piece. These bars are the kind of treat that makes you pause, smile, and savor the moment. And trust me, they’re so easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner!

Whether you’re planning a cozy Easter brunch, filling baskets for the little ones, or just looking for a fun baking project to brighten your day, these s’mores bars are the answer. My family couldn’t stop sneaking bites before they even cooled completely (can you blame them?), and honestly, they’ve become a staple for Easter treats in our home. Gooey Peeps S’mores Bars bring back the nostalgic comfort of campfire s’mores, but with a festive Easter twist that’s almost too adorable to eat. Almost.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for last-minute Easter prep.
• Minimal Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your pantry and fridge.
• Festive Fun: The colorful Peeps make these bars a visual treat for any Easter celebration.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will be scrambling for seconds. The gooey marshmallows and chocolate are irresistible!
• Next-Level Delicious: This isn’t your average s’mores recipe. The addition of Peeps adds a delightful twist, making these bars extra special.

What sets this recipe apart? It’s all about the texture and flavor. The buttery graham cracker crust is sturdy yet crumbly, topped with rich chocolate and vibrant marshmallows that melt into a soft, gooey layer. Plus, the Peeps bring a playful, holiday vibe that makes these bars stand out. They’re not just a treat—they’re an experience. Whether you’re hosting Easter brunch or just want a fun dessert to share, these bars are a guaranteed hit.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients to create a festive treat that’s as easy as it is delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Graham crackers: About 10 sheets, crushed into fine crumbs.
• Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (melted) to bind the crust and add richness.
• Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup to sweeten the graham cracker base.
• Chocolate chips: 1 1/2 cups (semi-sweet or milk chocolate, depending on your preference).
• Peeps marshmallows: 1 package (choose your favorite Easter colors and shapes).
• Mini marshmallows: 1 cup for extra gooeyness.
• Butter or cooking spray: To grease your baking dish.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap in dark chocolate for a richer flavor or try flavored graham crackers for an unexpected twist. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. The Peeps are the star of the show, so pick the pastel colors that scream “Easter” to you!

Equipment Needed

Before you get started, gather these tools for a smooth baking experience:

• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect for even layering and easy cutting.
• Mixing bowls: One large for the graham cracker crust and another for melting butter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key to that perfect gooey texture.
• Food processor or rolling pin: To crush the graham crackers (a zip-top bag and rolling pin work great for minimal cleanup).
• Spatula: Essential for spreading the layers evenly.

If you don’t have a food processor, don’t worry—you can crush the graham crackers by hand using a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy mug. A lined baking dish will make cleanup a breeze, so don’t skip that step!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the crust: Place the graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until they form fine crumbs. If using a rolling pin, crush them inside a zip-top bag until they’re finely ground. In a large bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter and sugar until evenly combined.
3. Form the base: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed and packed down well. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden and set.
4. Prepare the chocolate layer: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the baked crust while it’s still warm. Let them sit for 2-3 minutes, then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate into an even layer.
5. Add the marshmallows: Arrange the Peeps marshmallows on top of the chocolate layer. Fill any gaps with mini marshmallows for extra gooeyness. (The Peeps will puff up slightly in the oven, so don’t overcrowd.)
6. Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffed and slightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
7. Cool and slice: Let the bars cool completely before slicing into squares. This helps the layers set and makes cutting much easier.

Pro tip: If the marshmallows are browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from overcooking.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your Gooey Peeps S’mores Bars turn out perfectly:

• Don’t skip the pre-bake: This step helps the graham cracker crust set properly and prevents it from getting soggy.
• Use room-temperature butter: Melt it completely for even mixing with the graham cracker crumbs.
• Watch the marshmallows: Peeps puff up quickly, so keep a close eye on them while baking. A golden-brown top is perfect—burnt marshmallows, not so much.
• Let them cool: It might be tempting to dive in right away, but letting the bars cool ensures clean slices and prevents the layers from falling apart.
• Get creative: Switch up the colors and shapes of Peeps to match your Easter decor or personal preferences.

If you’re worried about your graham cracker crust crumbling, use the back of a measuring cup to press it down firmly for an even and compact base. And don’t forget, parchment paper is your best friend—no sticky pan disasters here!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations and adaptations:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers for the base. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!
• Chocolate Swap: Try white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist or dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor.
• Seasonal Twist: While Peeps are perfect for Easter, you can use holiday-specific marshmallows for Christmas, Halloween, or even Fourth of July!
• Nuts & Crunch: Add a layer of crushed nuts, like pecans or walnuts, between the graham cracker crust and chocolate layer for extra texture.
• Allergen-Friendly: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and plant-based butter to make the recipe vegan-friendly.

I once made a batch with dark chocolate and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt—it added a sophisticated edge to the sweet treat. The possibilities are endless!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve and store your Gooey Peeps S’mores Bars:

• Serving: Serve the bars at room temperature for the perfect blend of gooey marshmallows and firm layers. Pair them with a cold glass of milk or hot cocoa for a cozy Easter treat.
• Presentation: Arrange the bars on a colorful Easter platter or wrap them individually in pastel parchment paper for gifting.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
• Reheating: Pop a bar in the microwave for a few seconds to revive its gooey magic.

Fun fact: The flavors meld together even more after a day of resting, making them even more irresistible!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (approx. 1 bar):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 2g

The marshmallows and chocolate provide a quick energy boost, while the graham crackers add a bit of fiber. Be mindful of the sugar content if you’re watching your intake, and consider the allergen-friendly adaptations for dietary needs.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an Easter dessert that’s fun, festive, and guaranteed to please, you’ve found it in these Gooey Peeps S’mores Bars. They’re easy to make, visually stunning, and packed with flavor. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable, so you can make them your own!

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Let me know if you try this recipe—I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Share your creations in the comments below, and don’t forget to pin this recipe for future Easter celebrations. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of Peeps?

Absolutely! Regular marshmallows will work just as well, though you might miss the festive Easter colors that Peeps bring.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! These bars store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week.

What’s the best way to crush graham crackers?

A food processor works best, but you can also use a zip-top bag and a rolling pin for an easy DIY method.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to a month. Wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn and thaw at room temperature before serving.

How can I prevent the Peeps from burning?

Keep an eye on the oven during the final bake and cover the dish with foil if the Peeps start browning too quickly.

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