S’mores Cookie Bars

Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate treat—S’mores Cookie Bars. These bars combine the classic flavors of graham crackers, melted chocolate, and toasted marshmallows into one irresistible dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings today. Soft, gooey, and filled with nostalgic goodness, these bars are a delicious twist on the campfire favorite that’s easy to make at home any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Gooey Texture: Soft cookie base paired with melted chocolate and marshmallows creates a delightful chewiness in every bite.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of pantry staples that come together quickly without fuss.
• All-In-One Snack: Combines the classic s’mores components into a convenient, portable bar you can enjoy anywhere.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun and approachable treat that’s perfect for family baking sessions or school snacks.
• Customizable: Easily tweak the flavors or add-ins to fit your cravings or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple but essential ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the final bars. From the buttery cookie base to the rich chocolate bursts and fluffy marshmallow topping, every component works in harmony to create pure dessert bliss.

• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the sturdy yet soft base that holds your bars together.
• Brown Sugar: Adds warmth and moisture to keep the cookie layer tender.
• Butter: Gives richness and helps create that perfectly baked texture.
• Egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s chewy consistency.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Infuse that unmistakable toasted flavor essential for s’mores.
• Chocolate Chips: Use semi-sweet or milk chocolate for melty, luscious pockets of chocolatey goodness.
• Mini Marshmallows: Toasted on top to replicate the classic gooey finish of s’mores.
• Baking Soda & Salt: Help the cookie rise slightly and balance flavors.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle aroma and depth to the cookie base.

Variations for S’mores Cookie Bars

The beauty of S’mores Cookie Bars is how seamlessly they can be personalized. Whether you want to spice things up or accommodate allergies, these variations allow you to make the recipe truly your own.

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture and a toasty flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it allergy-friendly without sacrificing taste.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix in dollops of peanut butter before baking for a creamy twist.
• Salted Caramel Drizzle: Finish the bars with a drizzle of caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt for a decadent balance.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder in the cookie dough for a warm or mildly spicy kick.

How to Make S’mores Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removing the bars easy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Base

Cream softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking soda, and salt. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture to form a soft dough.

Step 3: Bake the Base

Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for about 12–15 minutes or until it just starts to set but is not fully baked—this ensures a chewy cookie foundation.

Step 4: Add Chocolate and Marshmallows

Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the warm cookie base. Then, top with a generous layer of mini marshmallows.

Step 5: Final Bake and Toast

Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 5–7 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and the chocolate is melted. For an extra toasted finish, briefly broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Cool & Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares, so they hold their shape and the gooey layers are set perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making S’mores Cookie Bars

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Butter and eggs soften more evenly, making mixing easier and results smoother.
• Don’t Overbake the Base: Slightly underbaking ensures the bars stay chewy and moist instead of dry.
• Toast Marshmallows Carefully: Keep a close eye when broiling to prevent burning and achieve that perfect golden finish.
• Press Instead of Spread: Use your hands to press the dough evenly in the pan to avoid overmixing and tough bars.
• Let It Chill: For cleaner slices, chill the bars for 30 minutes before cutting.

How to Serve S’mores Cookie Bars

Garnishes

Enhance your S’mores Cookie Bars with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers for added crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a cup of hot cocoa, or freshly brewed coffee to elevate the indulgence and complete your dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve S’mores Cookie Bars on rustic wooden boards alongside fresh berries or wrap individually in parchment paper tied with twine—perfect for parties, gifts, or on-the-go treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days without losing their chewy goodness.

Freezing

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm bars in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive their gooey texture, or place them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh that toasted marshmallow topping.

FAQs

Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?

While you can substitute regular sugar, brown sugar adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor essential to the chewy texture of S’mores Cookie Bars.

What is the best type of chocolate to use?

Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips work best for melting and complement the marshmallows perfectly without being overly sweet.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your graham cracker crumbs are gluten-free for a delicious alternative.

How do I prevent marshmallows from burning?

Keep a close eye when broiling and toast for no longer than 1–2 minutes to get the perfect golden color without burning.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Absolutely! These bars are a kid-friendly treat that’s safe and fun to make together as a family activity.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about the classic flavors of s’mores transformed into these delightful cookie bars. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic treat or simply want an easy dessert that impresses, S’mores Cookie Bars are the answer. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every gooey, chocolaty bite shared with family and friends. Happy baking!

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