Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

Growing up, I rarely saw my mother’s side of the family.

Most lived in different states, liked their space, and valued limited amounts of family time.

I loved these trips; it gave me three weeks of uninterrupted time with my grandparents.

Stack of S’mores Cereal Bars

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

I found it fascinating because I knew little about them and they knew little about me.

One person in particular who fascinated me was my mothers cousin.

I was enamored, unconsciously drawn to her.

S’mores Cereal Bars

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

I had this feeling of deep connection that I could not explain at the moment.

I just wanted to observe her, feeling slightly uncomfortable for reasons I didnt understand at the time.

My not-so-outwardly-loving grandmother and I sat around the fire where she showed me how to make s’mores.

S’mores Cereal Bars Viewed from the Top

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

That being queer was okay and that they have every right to love, happiness, and respect.

I just smiled, nodded and said okay.

My grandmothers openness and warmth was an unexpected acceptance that I didnt know I needed at the time.

Oil Sprayed onto Baking Pan for S’mores Cereal Bars Recipe

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

Her taking the time to talk to me one-on-one meant so much.

Theyre just as good, only slightly different.

The hot knife will yield perfectly cut squares without getting stuck or dragging the sticky marshmallow mixture.

Pot of Melted Butter and Marshmallows for S’mores Cereal Bars Next to Smaller Bowl of Marshmallows

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

Set 1/2 cup marshmallows aside.

You will use them to top the treats later.

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

Cereal and Chocolate Chips in Big Bowl with Melted Marshmallows for S’Mores Bars, and Two Small Bowls with Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows Situated Next to Big Bowl

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the salt.

In a large bowl, add the graham cracker cereal.

Scrape in the melted marshmallows and stir until evenly combined.

S’mores Cereal Mix in Baking Pan Surrounded by Bowls of Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

The mixture should have cooled just a bit.

Stir in 1 cup chocolate chips.

They will melt a little, but thats okay!

S’mores Cereal Bars in Baking Pan

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

Scrape the mixture into the prepared pan.

Use your hands to press it into an even layer.

Hold the flame about 4 inches from the marshmallows.

S’mores Cereal Bars Viewed from the Side

Simply Recipes / Ciara Kehoe

Move the flame across the surface of the marshmallows until they get toasty and brown.

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup chocolate chips on top.

Cool for at least 30 minutes then cut it into square bars.

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