S’mores have been a beloved treat for generations, evoking memories of campfires, laughter, and sticky marshmallow fingers. But what if you could enjoy that same gooey, chocolatey magic without the need for a campfire? Enter S’mores Cookie Bars – a quick and easy dessert that combines all the classic flavors of s’mores in a convenient bar form. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night at home, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine biting into a soft cookie base layered with graham crackers, melty chocolate, and gooey marshmallows. It’s everything you love about s’mores, made even better. These bars are simple to prepare and deliver the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Best of all, you don’t have to wait for summer to enjoy them – they’re a year-round delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make these irresistible S’mores Cookie Bars:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Graham crackers | 7-8 full sheets |
Unsalted butter (room temp) | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
Light brown sugar (packed) | 3/4 cup |
Large eggs | 2 |
Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
All-purpose flour | 3 cups |
Salt | 3/4 teaspoon |
Baking soda | 3/4 teaspoon |
Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1/2 cup |
Mini marshmallows | 1 cup, plus extra |
Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars | 2 (1.55 oz each) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift out the bars once they’re baked.
2. Layer the Graham Crackers
Arrange the graham crackers in a single layer at the bottom of the pan. Break them as needed to fit snugly.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender cookie texture.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Add Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of mini marshmallows. These add bursts of flavor and gooeyness throughout the bars.
7. Assemble the Cookie Bars
Spread the cookie dough evenly over the graham crackers in the prepared pan. Press gently to ensure an even layer. Sprinkle additional mini marshmallows on top for extra gooeyness.
8. Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
9. Add the Chocolate Topping
Remove the pan from the oven and immediately place the Hershey’s chocolate bar pieces on top. Let them soften for a few minutes, then gently spread with a spatula if desired.
10. Cool and Serve
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 20-30 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
Why This Recipe Works
1. Perfect Flavor Balance
The graham cracker base provides a crunchy foundation, while the cookie dough layer adds richness and chewiness. Chocolate and marshmallows bring that iconic s’mores flavor to life.
2. Simple and Convenient
With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
3. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal
Whether you’re hosting a party or treating your family, these bars are guaranteed to disappear quickly.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. Overbaking can result in dry cookie bars.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
- Customize Your Toppings: Add crushed peanuts, caramel drizzle, or extra chocolate chips for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of hot chocolate for the ultimate treat.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed for a gooey texture.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra indulgent dessert.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Per Serving (1 Bar) |
---|---|
Calories | 320 |
Total Fat | 14g |
Saturated Fat | 8g |
Carbohydrates | 45g |
Sugars | 25g |
Protein | 4g |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the bars a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature and serve when ready.
2. Can I freeze S’mores Cookie Bars?
Absolutely. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
3. What can I use instead of graham crackers?
Digestive biscuits or any other sweet, sturdy cracker can work as a substitute.
4. How do I prevent marshmallows from burning?
Keep an eye on the bars during baking, and cover with foil if the marshmallows brown too quickly.
5. Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts would make a great addition.
6. What if I don’t have parchment paper?
You can grease the pan well with butter or non-stick spray, but parchment paper makes cleanup much easier.
A Sweet Conclusion
The Best S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe is your ticket to enjoying all the classic s’mores flavors without the hassle of a campfire. These bars are easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging solo, this dessert is sure to hit the sweet spot.
Ready to create your own batch of gooey, chocolatey goodness? Gather your ingredients and start baking today. Your taste buds will thank you!
Bake these S’mores Cookie Bars now and share the joy with your loved ones!
PrintBest S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe: Quick & Easy Dessert
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 bars
Description
Indulge in the gooey, chocolatey magic of s’mores without the need for a campfire! These S’mores Cookie Bars combine a buttery cookie base, graham crackers, melty chocolate, and marshmallows for the perfect dessert that’s quick, easy, and totally irresistible. Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or a cozy treat at home.
Ingredients
- 7–8 full sheets graham crackers
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows, plus extra for topping
- 2 (1.55 oz each) Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars
Instructions
- Prep the Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang for easy removal.
- Layer Graham Crackers: Arrange the graham crackers in a single layer on the bottom of the prepared pan. Break them as needed to fit snugly.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
- Fold in Mix-Ins: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of mini marshmallows.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread the cookie dough evenly over the graham crackers in the pan. Press gently to create an even layer. Sprinkle additional mini marshmallows on top if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set. If the marshmallows start to brown too quickly, loosely cover the pan with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Add Chocolate Topping: Remove from the oven and immediately place the Hershey’s chocolate bar pieces on top. Allow them to soften, then spread gently with a spatula if desired.
- Cool and Slice: Let the bars cool in the pan for 20-30 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter and eggs for the best texture.
- Avoid overbaking to keep the bars soft and gooey.
- For a twist, add crushed peanuts or a drizzle of caramel.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American