Name: S’mores Cookie Bars: A Gooey Treat That'll Wow Everyone
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened at room temperature); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 3/4 cup Light Brown Sugar; 2 large Large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (preferably pure); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (leveled cup for accuracy); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 package Graham Crackers (full sheets); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (or milk chocolate); 2 cups Mini Marshmallows; 2 bars Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bars (or any brand)

As I stood in my kitchen, the warm aromas of chocolate and marshmallows enveloped me, instantly transporting me to countless summer nights around a campfire. That’s the beauty of these S’mores Cookie Bars — they capture the nostalgic flavors of a traditional s’mores experience without all the outdoor fuss! Perfectly layered with crispy graham crackers, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate, they are a delightful treat for both kids and adults. The best part? They require minimal prep and bake up in no time, allowing you to indulge your sweet tooth without sacrificing an entire afternoon. Are you ready to dive into this scrumptious adventure and whip up a batch of joy?

Why are S’mores Cookie Bars irresistible?

Decadent Flavor: Experience a heavenly blend of rich chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers that together create a nostalgia-filled treat.

Simple Preparation: With only a few easy steps, you’ll have these sweet bars ready to bake, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for gatherings, these bars will surely impress guests of all ages, just like my Cappuccino Cookies Chewy do!

Versatile Variations: Swap in different chocolates or mix-ins like nuts for a personalized touch that tailors to your taste buds.

Perfect For Any Season: Whether it’s summer or winter, these S’mores Cookie Bars deliver a heartwarming flavor experience that’s always in style.

S’mores Cookie Bars Ingredients

• Gather the essentials to make your own delicious S’mores Cookie Bars!

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened at room temperature.
Granulated Sugar – sweetens the dough for that perfect treat; don’t skip this!
Light Brown Sugar – brings depth and extra moisture to the cookie bars.
Large Eggs – vital for binding the ingredients and helping the bars rise.
Vanilla Extract – enhances the flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
All-Purpose Flour – provides structure to the cookie dough; use a leveled cup for accuracy.
Salt – balances sweetness and elevates flavors.
Baking Soda – essential for achieving a light and fluffy texture in your bars.

For the S’mores Layer

Graham Crackers – forms the crunchy base layer; whole sheets yield the best texture.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – adds melty, sweet chocolate chunks; swap for milk chocolate if desired.
Mini Marshmallows – give that gooey texture and authentic s’mores flavor.
Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars – placed on top for a deliciously melty finish; use any brand for gooey goodness.

Feel free to mix and match flavors to create your own twist on these delightful S’mores Cookie Bars!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S’mores Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden brown finish on your S’mores Cookie Bars. While it heats, prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing for easy lifting and clean-up later.

Step 2: Layer the Graham Crackers
Take your full sheets of graham crackers and place them evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. Don’t worry if you need to break some pieces to fit perfectly—just ensure they cover the entire base. This crunchy layer will provide the foundation for all the gooey goodness to come.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the room-temperature unsalted butter with both granulated and light brown sugars. Beat this mixture until it’s light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential for the texture of your cookie dough, which will form the delicious interior of your S’mores Cookie Bars.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Once your butter and sugar mixture is fluffy, crack in the large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add in the pure vanilla extract, blending until combined. This will enrich the flavor of your S’mores Cookie Bars, making them even more irresistible.

Step 5: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to your butter blend, mixing just until incorporated. Take care not to overbeat, as we want to keep the dough light and airy. Next, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Assemble the Cookie Bars
Spread the cookie dough evenly over the layer of graham crackers, ensuring that every bit is covered. For an extra touch, feel free to sprinkle additional mini marshmallows on top of the cookie dough. This will amplify the gooey s’mores experience once baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your assembled S’mores Cookie Bars in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on their progress; they should be golden brown around the edges while the center is still slightly soft and gooey to the touch. This is the ideal stage to achieve that delightful texture.

Step 8: Top with Chocolate
As soon as you remove the pan from the oven, immediately lay pieces of Hershey’s milk chocolate bars on top of the hot cookie bars. As they melt from the warmth, you’ll create a luscious chocolate topping that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 9: Cool and Cut
Let the S’mores Cookie Bars cool in the pan for at least 20-30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the chocolate to set and the bars to firm up. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and slice into squares for serving. Indulge in the gooey, chocolatey goodness that embodies a classic s’mores experience!

S’mores Cookie Bars Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with different flavors and textures for these delightful bars!

Oreo Twist: Substitute graham crackers with crushed Oreo cookies for a chocolatey delight. This swap gives a fun twist that chocolate lovers will adore!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor. The nuts enhance the texture, making each bite even more satisfying.
Dark Chocolate Delight: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer taste. Dark chocolate pairs beautifully with gooey marshmallows, bringing new depth to the bars.
Peanut Butter Bliss: Mix in peanut butter chips or a swirl of peanut butter. This addition creates a creamy layer that complements the chocolate perfectly; your taste buds will thank you!
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the cookie dough for a warm spice note. It brings an unexpected twist reminiscent of a cozy campfire night.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for a luscious touch. The sweet and salty flavor adds an extra layer of indulgence that will impress family and friends!
Mini S’mores: Layer mini graham crackers and marshmallows on top for a fun “mini” version of these bars. It makes for a playful presentation that is perfect for parties.

These variations will make your S’mores Cookie Bars unique each time you bake! If you’re feeling adventurous, check out my Salt River Bars for another delicious treat!

How to Store and Freeze S’mores Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Keep your S’mores Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps them maintain their gooey texture while staying fresh.

Fridge: For a firmer texture, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before indulging!

Freezer: Freeze the cookie bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy warm S’mores Cookie Bars again, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will melt the chocolate slightly and restore their gooey goodness.

What to Serve with S’mores Cookie Bars

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these delightful bars with complementary flavors and textures.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic scoop of creamy vanilla adds a cool contrast to the warm, gooey bars, enhancing the overall indulgence.
Chocolate Drizzle: A sweet drizzle of melted chocolate on top amplifies the chocolatey goodness, providing an extra layer of decadence.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel adds a sweet richness that perfectly balances the s’mores flavors, creating a delightful taste sensation.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of berries and bananas offers a burst of freshness that cuts through the sweetness wonderfully.
Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a steaming cup of hot chocolate to mirror the chocolatey elements in the bars—perfect for cold evenings!
Milkshake: Blend up a thin vanilla or chocolate milkshake for a deliciously creamy treat that pairs beautifully with each bite.

Treat yourself and your loved ones by experimenting with these pairings; they enhance the nostalgic comfort of S’mores Cookie Bars beautifully!

Make Ahead Options

These S’mores Cookie Bars are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply mix the dough, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. To maintain the quality, make sure your ingredients are fresh and the dough is stored in an airtight container. You can also layer the graham crackers in the baking pan and keep them covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, spread the cookie dough over the graham crackers, bake until golden, then top with melted chocolate for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy the convenience of having these delicious S’mores Cookie Bars ready to go!

Expert Tips for S’mores Cookie Bars

Use Parchment Paper: Line your pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easy removal, ensuring beautiful bars every time.
Check Doneness Carefully: Bake until golden brown; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs for that gooey texture in your S’mores Cookie Bars.
Customize for Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or flavored chocolate chips to tailor these bars to your taste preferences and make them your own.
Cool Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out; this helps maintain the perfect shape and prevents messy cuts.
Storage Wisdom: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay soft and delicious.

S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of graham crackers should I use?
For the best results, opt for full sheets of graham crackers, as they provide a crunchy base layer that holds the bars together beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try crushed Oreo cookies for a chocolatey twist!

How should I store S’mores Cookie Bars?
Keep your S’mores Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their gooey texture. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week in the same manner. They’ll be firmer but still delicious!

Can I freeze S’mores Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge. For a warm treat, microwave them for 10-15 seconds!

What should I do if the bars are too gooey after baking?
If your S’mores Cookie Bars are overly gooey when baked, they may need more time in the oven. Check for a golden brown edge and a soft center—if the center still seems too wet, return them to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them.

Are S’mores Cookie Bars safe for pets or individuals with allergies?
It’s essential to note that these bars contain common allergens such as butter, eggs, and chocolate, which are not safe for pets. For individuals with nut allergies, ensure you check your chocolate chips and consider using nut-free alternatives. Always be cautious and check with guests regarding their dietary needs before serving!

How can I enhance the flavor of my S’mores Cookie Bars?
To make your S’mores Cookie Bars even more delightful, consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch or peanut butter chips for an extra layer of flavor. You can also try using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste. The more the merrier!