Gluten-Free S’mores Bars: The Ultimate Gooey Campfire Dessert Made Easy

Gluten-Free S’mores Bars bring back everything you loved about summer nights—without the campfire and without the gluten. These golden, gooey dessert bars pack all the fun of traditional s’mores into an easy-to-bake treat that fits any lifestyle. And for someone like me, who spent every childhood summer around a bonfire with sticky fingers and chocolate-smudged cheeks, this recipe feels like home.

I still remember the joy of gently toasting marshmallows on skewers made from coat hangers, waiting just long enough to get them that perfect golden brown without setting them on fire—though let’s be honest, that happened more than once. Back then, no one worried about gluten. Now, I’m all about recreating those unforgettable flavors with gluten-free alternatives that don’t sacrifice texture or taste.

These gluten-free s’mores bars check every box: crunchy, chocolatey, chewy, and melty in every bite. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive, fully gluten-free, or just craving something that tastes like childhood nostalgia in bar form—this recipe is for you.

Discover great ideas like this gluten-free coconut cream pie if you’re in the mood for more creamy, dreamy desserts!

Gluten-Free S’mores Bars

These chewy, gooey Gluten-Free S’mores Bars bring the nostalgic taste of classic campfire treats into a simple, oven-baked dessert—no gluten, no fuss.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Cooling Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 12

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American, Kid-Friendly

Calories: 230

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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For the crust:

• 1½ cups gluten-free graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter or dairy-free alternative

For the layers:

• 1½ cups semi-sweet gluten-free chocolate chips
• 2 cups gluten-free mini marshmallows

Equipment

• 1 8×8-inch baking pan
• 1 mixing bowl
• 1 spatula
• 1 food processor (optional)

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until texture resembles wet sand.
3. Press firmly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking pan.
4. Bake crust for 8–10 minutes.
5. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over crust.
6. Let sit for 2 minutes, then spread the melted chocolate with a spatula.
7. Top with mini marshmallows in a single layer.
8. Return pan to oven and broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely until marshmallows are golden.
9. Cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then chill for cleaner slices.
10. Cut into squares and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 70gCalories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 2gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 80mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

• Gluten-Free: Be sure to use certified gluten-free graham crackers that don’t contain wheat or malt. Brands like Pamela’s, Kinnikinnick, or Schär work well for this recipe. If you’re crushing your own crackers, pulse them into fine crumbs for a sturdy crust.
• Dairy-Free: This recipe easily adapts for dairy-free needs. Swap the butter for vegan butter (like Earth Balance) and choose dairy-free chocolate chips such as Enjoy Life or Hu Kitchen. Also, confirm that your marshmallows are dairy-free—most are, but double-check if using flavored versions.
• Make-Ahead Tips: You can assemble these bars 1 day in advance—crust, chocolate, and marshmallows—and store the unbaked pan tightly wrapped in the fridge. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, then broil to toast the marshmallows.
• Storage Instructions: Once cooled, store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4–5 days. To keep layers from sticking together, place parchment paper between stacked bars.
• Freezing Advice: While possible, freezing may alter the texture of the marshmallows. For best results, it’s recommended to enjoy the bars fresh or refrigerated. If you do freeze, thaw slowly in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

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What Are Gluten-Free S’mores Bars and Why They’re Trending

The Rise of Gluten-Free Desserts

The popularity of gluten-free s’mores bars reflects a bigger trend in baking: making comfort foods more inclusive. As gluten-free diets become more common—whether for health, allergy, or lifestyle reasons—people want options that don’t feel like compromises. And when it comes to desserts, that means recreating the nostalgic classics we all grew up with, minus the gluten.

Desserts like gluten-free s’mores bars are leading the charge. They’re rich, chewy, gooey, and completely satisfying. You get all the classic layers: a buttery gluten-free graham cracker crust, melted chocolate, and lightly browned marshmallows. One bite in and you won’t care if it’s gluten-free—you’ll just want another slice.

What Makes S’mores Bars a Fan Favorite

There’s a reason why s’mores never go out of style. The blend of flavors and textures—the crunch of the crust, the creamy chocolate, the gooey marshmallow—is pure magic. With gluten-free s’mores bars, that same experience is delivered in a portable, mess-free form.

Unlike traditional s’mores, these bars don’t need an open flame or perfect timing. You can bake a whole pan, slice it up, and share them (or not). Whether you’re heading to a potluck, packing lunchbox treats, or hosting a BBQ, gluten-free s’mores bars make dessert simple and special at the same time.

That’s what makes them more than just a gluten-free alternative—they’re a dessert favorite for everyone.

Key Ingredients in Gluten-Free S’mores Bars

Best Gluten-Free Graham Crackers to Use

The base of any good gluten-free s’mores bar starts with a rock-solid graham cracker crust—but without the gluten, of course. While traditional graham crackers are made with wheat, today’s market offers plenty of gluten-free alternatives that pack in the same flavor and crunch.

Here are some of the top gluten-free graham cracker brands that bake beautifully and taste authentic:

To make the crust, just pulse your crackers into fine crumbs and combine them with melted butter (or dairy-free margarine) and a pinch of brown sugar. Once pressed into the pan and pre-baked, this creates the crisp, buttery layer that supports all that melty goodness above.

Don’t miss our gluten-free banana pudding if you’re a fan of layered desserts!

Marshmallow & Chocolate Choices (Gluten-Free Brands Included)

No gluten-free s’mores bar is complete without the sweet stretch of marshmallows and the creamy melt of chocolate. But not all marshmallows or chocolate are created equal when it comes to allergens.

Best Gluten-Free Marshmallows:

• Dandies: Vegan, gluten-free, and corn syrup-free
• Trader Joe’s Brand: Labeled gluten-free and perfect for toasting
• Campfire Marshmallows: Certified gluten-free and kid-approved

Chocolate Picks for Melty Magic:

• Enjoy Life: Top 8 allergen-free, including gluten and dairy
• Hu Chocolate Gems: Paleo-friendly, no refined sugar
• Lily’s Sweets: Stevia-sweetened for a lower sugar content

You can go classic with milk chocolate or opt for semi-sweet, dark, or even dairy-free chocolate chips for a richer finish. Layer these on thick for that satisfying ooze when you bite in.

So yes—you absolutely can enjoy indulgent gluten-free s’mores bars without compromise. The key is choosing the right ingredients that melt, stretch, and taste just like the treats from your childhood memories.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Gluten-Free S’mores Bars at Home

Making the Perfect Graham Cracker Crust (Without Gluten)

The first step in creating the perfect gluten-free s’mores bars starts with the base—the graham cracker crust. It’s the foundation of your bars and must hold up to gooey marshmallows and melty chocolate without falling apart.

Here’s how to do it right:

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups gluten-free graham cracker crumbs
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter or vegan alternative

Instructions:

1. Pulse your gluten-free graham crackers in a food processor until you have fine crumbs.
2. Combine crumbs with brown sugar and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Mix well until the texture feels like wet sand.
4. Press firmly into a lined 8×8-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
5. Pre-bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes to help set the crust.

This step locks in that toasted graham flavor and gives your gluten-free s’mores bars their signature crunch.

Layering Marshmallow, Chocolate, and Golden Brown Topping

Once the crust is baked, the fun begins. This is where the layers come together to make your kitchen smell like a cozy campfire memory—minus the smoke.

Here’s how to build it:

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or your preferred gluten-free brand)
• 2 cups mini marshmallows (gluten-free, of course)
• Optional: a drizzle of condensed milk or a handful of crushed graham crackers for extra texture

Assembly Steps:

1. While the crust is still warm, sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the top.
2. Let them melt slightly, then use a spatula to spread them into a smooth layer.
3. Scatter marshmallows generously over the chocolate.
4. Return the pan to the oven and broil on high for 1–2 minutes—watch closely!—until the tops are golden brown and lightly toasted.

Once baked, cool your gluten-free s’mores bars at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing. For cleaner edges, chill the bars in the fridge for 15 minutes before cutting.

Check out our gluten-free ice cream cake if you’re into chilled treats that layer beautifully.

Pro Tip:

Want to take it over the top? Add a swirl of nut butter or a sprinkle of sea salt before baking for a more gourmet twist. You can also toss in a few chopped nuts or crushed cookies to play with texture—just make sure they’re gluten-free too.

With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll have gluten-free s’mores bars that look bakery-made and taste like a fireside hug.

Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor Every Time

Preventing Crumbly Crust or Burnt Tops

When it comes to gluten-free s’mores bars, the two most common struggles are a crust that falls apart and marshmallows that burn in seconds. But don’t worry—both are completely avoidable with a few simple tweaks.

Avoiding a crumbly crust:

• Use enough melted butter to bind the crumbs together. Dry crumbs won’t hold when sliced.
• Press the crust firmly into your baking pan using the bottom of a flat glass or measuring cup.
• Pre-bake the crust to give it a chance to solidify before layering on wet ingredients.

Preventing marshmallow burn:

• Always broil on the top rack but never walk away—marshmallows can go from golden to black in seconds.
• Rotate your pan halfway through broiling for even browning.
• If you prefer a softer, gooier top, skip broiling and just let the residual oven heat soften the marshmallows.

These tiny tricks make all the difference in how your gluten-free s’mores bars hold up and taste.

Looking for more baking hacks? Don’t miss our gluten-free vanilla cupcakes for tips on getting fluffy, consistent texture every time.

Getting That Gooey Center Just Right

The heart of every great gluten-free s’mores bar is the gooey, chocolatey center that oozes with every bite. Here’s how to nail that balance:

• Use real chocolate chips (not baking chocolate)—they melt smoother and taste richer.
• Spread the chocolate while it’s still soft from the oven so it creates a silky middle layer.
• Don’t overbake! The key to that fudgy texture is to remove the bars from the oven just as the marshmallows toast. Overbaking will dry out the center.
• Let the bars cool completely before slicing to help them set and hold shape without losing their gooey bite.

Bonus tip: If you like a denser, brownie-like texture, try adding a few tablespoons of condensed milk over the chocolate before topping with marshmallows. It’s a game-changer.

When you combine a solid crust, perfectly melted chocolate, and lightly toasted marshmallows, you get gluten-free s’mores bars that feel like they came straight from a bakery display case—but they were made in your kitchen.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free S’mores Bar Options

Substituting Butter, Chocolate, and Marshmallows

Whether you’re avoiding dairy for health reasons or cooking for a mixed group of guests, adapting gluten-free s’mores bars to be dairy-free is simpler than you might think. You don’t have to sacrifice gooey goodness or rich flavor—just swap a few key ingredients.

Dairy-Free Crust Substitutes:

• Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of traditional butter for your graham cracker crust.
• Brands like Earth Balance and Miyoko’s Creamery are solid picks for buttery texture with zero dairy.

Dairy-Free Chocolate Choices:

• Enjoy Life Semi-Sweet Mini Chips: free from dairy, gluten, and top allergens.
• Hu Chocolate Gems: paleo-friendly, no soy, no dairy, and no refined sugar.
• Trader Joe’s 72% Dark Chocolate: labeled dairy-free and melts beautifully.

Marshmallows That Fit:

• Dandies Marshmallows: 100% vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
• Yummallo Vegan Marshmallows: soy- and dairy-free with a soft, sweet texture.

These easy swaps turn traditional gluten-free s’mores bars into treats everyone can enjoy—without losing the melt, crunch, or nostalgia.

Check out our dairy-free ranch dressing for another recipe that nails flavor while staying allergy-friendly.

Kid-Friendly and Allergy-Friendly Variations

Making treats for kids or party guests with dietary restrictions? With just a few tweaks, gluten-free s’mores bars can be allergen-safe and still totally delicious.

Here are a few fun ideas:

Fun extras for kids:

• Add gluten-free rainbow sprinkles on top before toasting.
• Use cookie cutters to slice the bars into stars, hearts, or seasonal shapes.
• Top with a few crushed gluten-free cookies for crunch.

With a little planning, you’ll serve gluten-free s’mores bars that everyone at the table can bite into, worry-free.

How to Store, Freeze & Reheat Gluten-Free S’mores Bars

Storing at Room Temp vs. Freezing for Later

One of the best things about gluten-free s’mores bars is that they hold up beautifully over time—if you store them right. Whether you’re making them ahead for a party or hoarding them for personal snack attacks (we don’t judge), proper storage is key to keeping that crunchy crust and gooey top layer intact.

For short-term storage (up to 4 days):

• Let the bars cool completely after baking.
• Slice into squares and store in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Avoid humid environments—they can soften the crust.

Want to enjoy your gluten-free s’mores bars later in the week? You can refrigerate them too. Just know that the chocolate and marshmallows may firm up, so bring to room temp before serving for best texture.

Looking for inspiration? Try our blueberry almond clafoutis (gluten-free)—a bake-ahead dessert that also freezes beautifully!

Reheating Without Drying Out the Bars

Warming up gluten-free s’mores bars brings back their gooey charm—just like they were fresh from the oven. But you’ve got to be gentle, or you’ll dry out the crust or over-melt the marshmallow topping.

Here’s how to do it right:

Tips:

• Don’t overheat—marshmallows expand fast and can get rubbery.
• Cover loosely with foil in the oven to prevent burning.
• Let them cool slightly before serving to get that signature gooey pull.

Once warmed, these gluten-free s’mores bars taste like they just came out of the oven—every time.

Check out our gluten-free chocolate cupcakes for another treat that stores well and reheats like a dream.

Occasions & Ways to Serve Gluten-Free S’mores Bars

BBQs, Potlucks, Birthdays, & School Snacks

Gluten-free s’mores bars are more than just a treat—they’re a conversation starter. Their nostalgic flavor, gooey texture, and handheld ease make them the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a backyard crew or prepping classroom snacks, these bars always deliver.

Here are a few of the best times to break out a batch:

They’re also ideal for weekend baking, camping alternatives, or simply adding a little joy to your workday lunchbox. And since they store so well, you can make a pan in advance and have dessert covered for days.

Check out our gluten-free banana nut bread muffins for another school snack favorite with big flavor and easy prep.

Creative Presentation Ideas for Events

When you’re making dessert for a party or special event, presentation counts. Even casual gluten-free s’mores bars can be dressed up for the occasion with a few simple tricks.

Ideas to elevate your s’mores bar game:

• Mini Bar Bites: Slice into small squares and skewer with decorative toothpicks for pass-around snacks.
• Drizzle Magic: Add a chocolate drizzle or white chocolate zigzag after baking for a gourmet look.
• Serve with Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream for plated elegance.
• Campfire Style: Wrap individual bars in parchment and tie with twine for rustic charm at outdoor events.

Want to go all out? Use themed cookie cutters (stars, hearts, trees) to cut out shapes once chilled. Kids love them, and adults will be impressed by the presentation.

These creative serving ideas make gluten-free s’mores bars the hit of any party—and the dessert people ask about long after the plates are cleared.

Health & Nutrition Breakdown of Gluten-Free S’mores Bars

What’s Inside: Calories, Sugar, and Gluten-Free Ingredients

Let’s be honest—gluten-free s’mores bars are indulgent. They’re not diet food, and that’s okay. But knowing what’s inside can help you enjoy them mindfully, whether you’re serving them at a party or sneaking one from the fridge late at night.

Here’s a basic nutritional estimate (per bar, based on an 8×8 pan cut into 12):

Since you’re using gluten-free graham crackers and marshmallows, most of the carbs and sugars come from natural sweeteners and chocolate. While not low-carb, these bars are free from refined wheat flour, making them more suitable for gluten-sensitive folks.

Want to cut back on sugar? Use stevia-sweetened chocolate like Lily’s and reduce the marshmallow quantity slightly. You’ll still get that chewy, toasted texture without as much sweetness.

Why Gluten-Free Doesn’t Always Mean “Healthy”

It’s a common myth that gluten-free s’mores bars (or any gluten-free desserts) are automatically healthier. In reality, many gluten-free substitutes—like refined rice flour or potato starch—offer similar calorie and carb content as wheat-based versions.

What makes these bars a better choice is what they leave out:

• No refined wheat flour
• No artificial graham fillers (when made homemade)
• Option to use organic, dairy-free, or low-sugar ingredients

So if your goal is a dessert that avoids gluten while still delivering maximum comfort food vibes, these bars check all the boxes. But moderation is still key—just like with any dessert.

Don’t miss our gluten-free German chocolate cake if you’re craving another indulgent but gluten-free option for your next celebration.

Conclusion: Why Gluten-Free S’mores Bars Deserve a Spot in Your Dessert Lineup

There’s something timeless about the flavors of a classic s’more. The melty chocolate, toasted marshmallow, and crunchy graham cracker come together to create pure comfort. With gluten-free s’mores bars, you get all that nostalgia in a recipe that’s inclusive, easy to prep, and undeniably delicious.

From choosing the right gluten-free ingredients to adapting for dairy-free and allergy-friendly needs, these bars prove you don’t have to miss out on iconic desserts. Whether you’re making them for a summer BBQ, a school event, or a midnight snack for one, they’re always a hit.

The best part? They’re as fun to make as they are to eat—and they store beautifully for days, so you can keep the campfire vibes going all week long.

Don’t miss our recipe for gluten-free fish and chips if you’re in the mood for another comfort food classic with a gluten-free twist.

So go ahead, toast those marshmallows, melt that chocolate, and sink your teeth into a dessert that checks all the boxes—gluten-free s’mores bars are here to stay.

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