Bonfire Bars

Bonfire Bars are the ultimate sweet treat that combines a graham cracker base, a soft chocolate caramel middle, and a fluffy marshmallow topping. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights by the fire, these bars bring the flavors of s’mores to your kitchen in a delightful way. Their unique layers and textures make them stand out, ensuring they’ll be a hit at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up these bars without any hassle.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate, caramel, and marshmallow creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, summer BBQs, or just a fun dessert at home.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves these bars; they’re sure to impress friends and family alike!
• No Baking Required: Enjoy making this dessert without needing to turn on the oven for long hours.

Tools and Preparation

To make Bonfire Bars successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking dish
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients uniformly and ensuring even texture in your bars.
• Saucepan: Used for melting chocolate and combining wet ingredients efficiently.
• Rubber spatula: Helps in scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring no ingredient goes to waste.

Ingredients

A graham cracker base, soft chocolate caramel middle, and marshmallow top.

For the Chocolate Caramel Layer

• 680 grams evaporated milk
• 120 grams heavy cream
• 380 grams sugar
• 285 grams corn syrup
• 113 grams butter
• 2 grams salt
• 8 ounces bakers chocolate, unsweetened

For the Graham Cracker Base

• 340 grams graham cracker crumbs
• 300 grams flour
• 150 grams brown sugar
• 3 grams salt
• 170 grams butter, cold, cut into small cubes

For the Marshmallow Topping

• 30 grams unflavored gelatin
• 120 grams cold water
• 380 grams sugar
• 285 grams corn syrup
• 180 grams honey
• 150 grams water
• 10 grams vanilla

For Coating

• 300 grams chocolate or candy melts
• 3 lbs dark chocolate, tempered

How to Make Bonfire Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Dish

1. Begin by greasing your baking dish with butter or lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking after your Bonfire Bars are set.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Base

1. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, flour, brown sugar, and salt.
2. Add cold butter cubes. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Create the Chocolate Caramel Layer

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk, heavy cream, sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt.
2. Stir until everything is melted together smoothly.
3. Remove from heat and add unsweetened bakers chocolate. Mix until fully melted and combined.

Step 4: Pour Over Graham Cracker Base

1. Carefully pour the chocolate caramel mixture over the graham cracker base in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread evenly.

Step 5: Prepare Marshmallow Topping

1. In a separate bowl, dissolve gelatin in cold water.
2. In another saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, honey, water, and vanilla; bring to boil while stirring until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat; allow cooling slightly before adding gelatin mixture. Beat until fluffy.

Step 6: Spread Marshmallow Mixture

1. Once fluffy and thickened slightly, spread marshmallow topping over the cooled chocolate caramel layer using an offset spatula.

Step 7: Finish with Chocolate Coating

1. Melt dark chocolate (tempered) or candy melts as per instructions on package. Drizzle or spread over marshmallow layer for added richness.

Step 8: Chill & Slice

1. Refrigerate until set (about 2-4 hours). Once firmed up, cut into squares or bars for serving!

Enjoy your homemade Bonfire Bars! They are sure to become a favorite dessert that everyone will love!

How to Serve Bonfire Bars

Bonfire Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Share with Friends

• Invite friends over for a bonfire night and slice the bars into small squares for easy sharing.

S’mores Style

• Toast additional marshmallows over the fire and use them as toppings for your Bonfire Bars, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Ice Cream Delight

• Serve Bonfire Bars warm with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side for a decadent dessert experience.

Drizzle with Chocolate

• Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top of each bar for an elegant touch.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Serve alongside fresh strawberries or bananas to balance the sweetness with a refreshing taste.

Pack for Picnics

• Wrap individual bars in parchment paper and pack them for an easy treat on picnics or road trips.

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How to Perfect Bonfire Bars

To ensure your Bonfire Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients, especially the chocolate and cream, enhance flavor and texture.
• Properly Temper Chocolate: For a shiny finish, temper your dark chocolate correctly before dipping or drizzling.
• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, which is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
• Let Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely after baking; this helps them set properly before cutting.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add nuts, fruits, or spices to customize your Bonfire Bars to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Bonfire Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Bonfire Bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options that complement this sweet treat.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance out the richness of the bars.
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet bites add an elegant touch and pair well with chocolate flavors.
3. Mini Cheesecakes: Individual cheesecakes create a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
4. Ice Cream Sandwiches: Combining cookies and ice cream provides a fun twist on traditional dessert offerings.
5. S’mores Dip: A gooey s’mores dip serves as an interactive dessert that invites guests to indulge further.
6. Homemade Whipped Cream: Light whipped cream can be dolloped on top of each bar for added creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bonfire Bars, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your dessert turns out delicious.

• Skipping the chilling time: Not allowing the bars to cool completely can lead to a messy cut. Patience is key; chill them well before slicing.
• Using the wrong chocolate: Substituting unsweetened chocolate with sweetened varieties can alter the flavor. Stick to unsweetened chocolate for that perfect balance.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, and improper measurements can ruin your Bonfire Bars. Use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient amounts.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bars tough instead of soft and chewy. Mix ingredients just until combined for the best texture.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: Improper storage can lead to stale bars. Follow the recommended storage methods to maintain freshness and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Bonfire Bars in an airtight container.
• They will keep fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bonfire Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months without losing quality.

Reheating Bonfire Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars in 10-15 second intervals until warm; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Warm each bar for a minute on each side for a gooey texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Bonfire Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions that can help.

Can I customize my Bonfire Bars?

Yes! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even different types of chocolate to suit your taste preferences.

What makes Bonfire Bars unique?

Bonfire Bars combine classic s’mores flavors with a rich chocolate caramel layer, creating a delightful treat that stands out from regular s’mores.

How do I achieve a perfect graham cracker base?

Ensure your graham cracker crumbs are finely crushed and mixed with cold butter for an evenly textured base that holds together well.

Are Bonfire Bars suitable for parties?

Absolutely! These bars are crowd-pleasers and easy to slice into squares, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings or parties.

What should I serve with Bonfire Bars?

Consider pairing these bars with ice cream or fresh fruit for added texture and flavor contrast!

Final Thoughts

Bonfire Bars are an irresistible treat that combines rich chocolate, gooey marshmallow, and a crunchy graham cracker base. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various mix-ins or toppings. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying them at home, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!