S’mores Cookie Bars

If you’re craving something sweet, gooey, and downright irresistible, these S’mores Cookie Bars are exactly what you need. Combining the classic campfire flavors of melty chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers all baked into one chewy, luscious bar, this recipe turns every bite into a delightful treat. Whether you’re sharing with friends, packing for a picnic, or just need a perfect snack, these bars hit all the right notes for a sweet fix.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for last-minute cravings or spontaneous gatherings.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Combines sweetness, crunch, and gooeyness in every bite for an unforgettable taste.
• Great for Sharing: Easy-to-cut bars make them simple to portion and pass around at parties or family get-togethers.
• Customizable: Adaptable to dietary preferences or ingredient swaps without losing the classic s’mores essence.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun dessert for children to enjoy and even help make in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, household staples that come together effortlessly. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—graham crackers add crunch, chocolate brings rich creaminess, and marshmallows deliver that sweet, gooey magic.

• Graham Crackers: Crushed into crumbs to create the perfect crunchy base and mix-in texture.
• Chocolate Chips or Chunks: Use semi-sweet or milk chocolate for that melty chocolate goodness.
• Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows melt to create delightful pockets of softness.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
• Sugar: Brown sugar is ideal for a chewy texture and slight caramel flavor.
• Flour: Basic all-purpose flour provides structure and stability.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookie bars rise just enough without making them cakey.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and deepens the flavor profile.

Variations for S’mores Cookie Bars

This recipe is delightfully flexible, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with these creative variations to make the bars truly your own.

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor depth.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter, vegan chocolate chips, and marshmallows to keep it plant-based.
• Chocolate Lovers’ Dream: Double the chocolate chips or swirl in some Nutella for an ultra-rich variation.
• Salted Caramel: Drizzle homemade salted caramel sauce on top for a sweet and salty combo.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop dollops of peanut butter in the dough before baking for a nutty surprise.

How to Make S’mores Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking while ensuring easy removal of the bars after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing thoroughly to evenly distribute each element.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy; this helps create the chewy texture in the cookie bars.

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Combine

Stir the vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture, then gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just combined—you want the dough ready but not overworked.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows

Gently fold in chocolate chips and mini marshmallows to disperse them evenly without causing them to melt or break up prematurely.

Step 6: Press Into the Pan and Bake

Transfer the dough into your prepared pan and press it evenly to the edges. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until the edges are golden but the center still looks slightly soft for maximum gooeyness.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting — this makes them hold their shape and makes grabbing a piece easy without crumbling.

Pro Tips for Making S’mores Cookie Bars

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda and vanilla extract are fresh for the best flavor and rise.
• Don’t Overbake: Pull the bars out when edges are set but centers are still soft for ooey gooey perfection.
• Press Evenly: Evenly pressing the dough into the pan helps the bars bake uniformly without thin or thick spots.
• Chill the Dough: If you have time, chilling the dough helps control spreading and intensifies flavor.
• Swap Marshmallows Strategically: Add extra marshmallows on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a toasty marshmallow crust.

How to Serve S’mores Cookie Bars

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the cooled bars amps up visual appeal and taste without overpowering the classic s’mores flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a tall glass of cold milk to complement the warm, gooey bars and provide a refreshing balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these bars in rustic wooden trays lined with parchment or stack them high on a dessert platter for an inviting display at parties or casual get-togethers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the S’mores Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy and melty texture.

Freezing

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm the bars gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven to revive their gooey, fresh-baked allure.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free ingredients to make these?

Absolutely! Substitute with gluten-free graham crackers and all-purpose gluten-free flour blends to keep the bars safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without sacrificing taste.

What’s the best chocolate to use?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide a nice balance, but milk chocolate adds extra sweetness and dark chocolate can give a rich, slightly bitter contrast.

Can I make these bars ahead of time for a party?

Yes, these bars hold up well when made a day in advance; store them in airtight containers and garnish just before serving for best presentation.

Is it okay to add nuts?

Definitely! Nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts add a lovely crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet s’mores ingredients.

How do I prevent marshmallows from burning?

Adding marshmallows inside the dough rather than just on top helps them melt perfectly without burning, plus adding a handful on top during the last few minutes of baking to lightly toast is ideal.

Final Thoughts

These S’mores Cookie Bars are a delightful way to bring a taste of a classic campfire treat right into your kitchen anytime. Easy to make and share, they’re sure to become a favorite for satisfying any sweet tooth. Go ahead, try this recipe—you might just find your new go-to dessert!

Related Posts

• Cinnamon Sugar Blondies
• Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Tacos
• Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl

Print