Name: S'mores Cookie Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cup Graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup Granulated sugar; 1/2 cup Butter ((8 tablespoons), melted); 2 cups All-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 3/4 cup Unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled); 1 cup Packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup Granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon Vanilla (extract); 1 each Egg; 1 each Egg yolk; 1 1/2 cups Semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 1/2 cups Mini-marshmallows (- frozen); 2 (1.55 oz) Hershey chocolate bars

Jump to Recipe Print it

The first time I made S’mores Cookie Bars, it was a chilly evening, and I was craving something sweet. I had a few friends over for a movie night, and what better way to set the mood than with a dessert that combines two classic treats? As the aroma of melted chocolate and toasty graham cracker filled the air, we couldn’t help but sneak bites before it even cooled. These cookie bars are not only easy to prepare, but they also capture the nostalgic essence of summer camping trips around the fire. Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds, making them the perfect addition to any gathering!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
2g g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
8g g

Tools Used:
Oven, Wooden Spoon, Blender, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan

These cookie bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed year-round. Whether it’s a birthday party, a cozy family night, or just because you need a sweet treat, the flavors of these S’mores Cookie Bars are sure to please. The combination of crunchy, creamy, and chocolatey textures creates a delightful experience in every bite. So grab your ingredients and let’s dive into why these bars will become your new favorite treat!

What You’ll Enjoy About This S’mores Cookie Bars

Why They’re Irresistible

First, the nostalgic combination of flavors in S’mores Cookie Bars—graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows—reminds us of campfires and fun times spent outdoors. Each bite takes you back to those sunny days.

Easy to Make

Second, these cookie bars are ridiculously simple to whip up. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious dessert ready in no time. It’s perfect for unexpected guests or a last-minute craving!

Perfect for Sharing

Another reason to love them is that they’re easy to cut into squares, making them ideal for sharing. Whether with family, friends, or coworkers, these bars can be enjoyed by many, and they’re always a hit at potlucks or parties.

Customizable Goodness

You can also customize these bars to suit your taste! Feel like adding nuts or using different types of chocolate? Go right ahead! This recipe is a blank canvas, and you can easily make it your own.

Comforting Treat

Finally, there’s something so comforting about a warm dessert that’s gooey in the middle and slightly crispy on the edges. The flavors meld beautifully, making each bite a comforting hug.

Main Ingredients for S’mores Cookie Bars

When it comes to the ingredients for S’mores Cookie Bars, each one plays a crucial role in creating that crave-worthy flavor and texture. Let’s break down the key players:

Graham cracker crumbs: These provide the delicious base of your bars, giving that nostalgic s’mores flavor.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the mixture, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Butter: Necessary for richness, butter adds moisture and helps achieve that perfect chewy texture.
All-purpose flour: The essential structure for the cookie base, it binds all the ingredients together.
Baking soda: This helps the bars rise, giving them the perfect lightness.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, making the sweet even sweeter.
Brown sugar: This adds a depth of flavor and moisture, making the bars chewy.
Eggs: Eggs act as a binder and add richness to the bars.
Chocolate chips: These are the star ingredient, adding that essential gooeyness.
Mini marshmallows: These create pockets of gooey goodness throughout the bars.
Hershey chocolate bars: Topping the dessert with these adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.

Cooking Instructions for S’mores Cookie Bars

Let’s get started on making these delicious S’mores Cookie Bars. Follow these steps for a perfect outcome. You’ll see how easy it is to create this treat!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (165 degrees C). Getting the oven ready is crucial for ensuring an even bake. This temperature is perfect for achieving that golden-brown top.
If you haven’t already, place the frozen mini marshmallows in the freezer now. This will help them keep their shape as the bars bake.
Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you could line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until fully combined, creating a moist crumb mixture. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will form the crust, so make sure it’s packed tightly.
In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.
In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter (make sure it’s mostly cooled), brown sugar, and remaining granulated sugar until well blended. You want this mixture to be light and fluffy, which indicates that air has been incorporated.
Beat in the vanilla, egg, and egg yolk until the mixture is light and creamy. This step is essential for adding richness and flavor to your bars.
Now, gradually mix in the sifted ingredients until just blended. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the bars soft and chewy.
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of the frozen mini marshmallows. The chocolate should be evenly distributed for that delightful gooeyness.
Scoop the dough over the graham cracker crust, gently pressing it into an even layer. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover the pan completely; it will spread as it bakes.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mini marshmallows on top, pressing them in slightly to adhere. This will create a lovely toasted top when baked.
Bake for 18 to 25 minutes, or until the top begins to get golden brown. Make sure the center is set and not jiggly, as they will firm up during cooling.
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Carefully place the broken pieces of Hershey chocolate bars on top. The residual heat will melt the chocolate slightly.
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Patience is key here; the bars will be easier to cut when fully cooled.

Things Worth Knowing

Cool Completely: Always let your bars cool completely before cutting. This ensures cleaner edges and prevents them from falling apart.
Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your bars as they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry cookie bars, whereas underbaking leaves a gooey center.
Storage: These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them.
Mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts, different types of chocolate, or even peanut butter chips to the mix for a unique twist!
Serving: These bars are delicious warm, but they can also be enjoyed cold. Try serving them with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat!

Change It Up

If you’re looking to experiment with your S’mores Cookie Bars, here are some tips to add a twist to your creation:

Flavor Variations: You can mix in different flavors of chocolate chips, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate, to keep it interesting.
Nutty Addition: Consider adding some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the bars.
Seasonal Toppings: Try adding seasonal toppings like crushed peppermint for winter or fresh berries for summer.
Different Bases: Instead of using purely graham cracker crumbs, consider mixing in some crushed cookies, like Oreos, for a fun spin on the crust.
Chocolate Variations: Use different brands or types of chocolate bars for the topping to give your bars a unique flavor profile.
Extra Layers: For an extra indulgence, spread a layer of peanut butter or Nutella on the graham cracker base before adding the cookie dough!

How to Serve S’mores Cookie Bars

Serving S’mores Cookie Bars is as delightful as making them. Here’s how to present them for maximum enjoyment:

Cut into Squares: After the bars have cooled and set, cut them into even squares. This makes for easy serving and portion control.
Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm squares with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an indulgent treat. Vanilla pairs particularly well!
Great for Gatherings: These bars are perfect for potlucks, parties, or any gathering. They can be made ahead of time and are easy to transport.
Flavorful Pairings: Consider serving alongside coffee or hot chocolate for a comforting winter treat. They also pair well with fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about a week.
Celebrations: Perfect for birthdays, barbecues, or any special occasion, these bars can be dressed up with colorful sprinkles or themed decorations!

FAQ

Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are traditional, you can experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for different flavor profiles. The choice of chocolate can alter the sweetness and richness of your S’mores Cookie Bars, so feel free to get creative!

To keep your S’mores Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Yes! To make gluten-free S’mores Cookie Bars, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, make sure to use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors without the gluten!

Absolutely! S’mores Cookie Bars freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

These S’mores Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence, making them a wonderful treat for any occasion. I encourage you to try making them yourself and experience the joy they bring to the table. Whether for a gathering or a cozy night in, you won’t be disappointed. Happy baking!