If you love the classic taste of s’mores but want a more convenient and less messy way to enjoy them, this S’mores Cookie Bars recipe is perfect for you! These cookie bars combine all the flavors of a campfire s’more into an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert. Soft and chewy graham-flavored cookie dough is layered with gooey marshmallow creme and semi-sweet chocolate chips to create a delicious treat that is ideal for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday parties. Let’s dive in and learn how to make these irresistible bars!

Ingredients Overview

To make these delicious S’mores Cookie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter – softened to room temperature
3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar – for sweetness and moisture
1 large egg – at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – for added flavor
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour – spooned and leveled
1 cup (120g) graham cracker crumbs – about 8 full-sheet graham crackers, crushed
1/2 teaspoon baking powder – for slight rise
1/4 teaspoon salt – to balance flavors
1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips – for that classic s’mores taste
1 heaping cup marshmallow creme – store-bought “Fluff” or 1/2 recipe of homemade marshmallow creme

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you begin, make sure you have these essential tools ready:

8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan – for baking the cookie bars
Parchment paper – for easy removal of the bars
Mixing bowls – one large for wet ingredients, one medium for dry ingredients
Handheld or stand mixer – fitted with a paddle attachment
Spatula – for mixing and spreading
Wire rack – for cooling the bars

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Dough for S’mores Cookie Bars

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later.

In a large mixing bowl, use a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to cream the softened butter and brown sugar together on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes, until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then continue to mix until fully combined. Don’t worry if the mixture looks slightly curdled; this is normal.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating on medium speed until just combined. The dough will be sticky, which is perfect for forming the base and top layer of your bars.

3. Layering the Cookie Dough, Marshmallow, and Chocolate

Press about two-thirds of the graham cookie dough into the prepared baking pan. It will be a thin layer, and the dough is sticky, so use your hands if necessary to spread it evenly.

Next, spread the marshmallow creme evenly over the cookie dough layer. This step can be a bit tricky since marshmallow creme is very sticky, but take your time to get as even a layer as possible. Once the marshmallow layer is done, sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly on top.

4. Add the Top Layer of Dough

For the top layer, mold the remaining cookie dough into small flat pieces and arrange them over the chocolate chips. It’s okay if some of the marshmallow and chocolate are exposed – this adds to the rustic appeal of the bars.

5. Baking the S’mores Cookie Bars

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on the bars to prevent over-baking; the edges should be set, but the center may still look slightly soft. This is ideal as the bars will continue to firm up as they cool.

6. Cool and Cut the Bars

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial as it allows the bars to set properly, making them easier to cut. After cooling, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking the Bars: The cookie dough should be just lightly golden. If you bake until it’s too brown, the bars will be dry and hard.
Uneven Spreading of Marshmallow Creme: Take your time spreading the marshmallow creme to ensure even layers, which will prevent overly sticky or thin patches.
Not Using Parchment Paper: This helps to easily lift the bars from the pan, making cleanup simpler and ensuring the bars hold their shape.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

For a Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the dough or sprinkle on top of the chocolate chips for added crunch.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free graham crackers.
Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve these cookie bars warm or at room temperature. Arrange them on a rustic wooden platter or colorful dessert tray to make them look extra inviting. You can also drizzle with melted chocolate or add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers on top for an added touch.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover S’mores Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also freeze the bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To serve, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Pairing Suggestions

Enjoy your S’mores Cookie Bars with a glass of cold milk, hot chocolate, or a cup of coffee for a comforting treat. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use homemade marshmallow creme instead of store-bought?
Yes! Homemade marshmallow creme works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure it is thick enough to spread without being too runny.

2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely. These bars can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

3. What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?
You can crush graham crackers yourself or use a food processor to grind them into fine crumbs.

Conclusion

These S’mores Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat that everyone loves. They’re perfect for any gathering or as a sweet homemade gift. Enjoy them with family and friends, and don’t forget to share the recipe and subscribe to our blog for more delicious treats!

Ingredients