S’mores Cookie Bars

ByMia Harper
Delicious S'mores Cookie Bars with chocolate and marshmallow layers

S’mores Cookie Bars combine the nostalgic flavors of classic campfire s’mores with the convenience of a cookie bar format. Imagine biting into a chewy, rich treat filled with gooey marshmallows and melty chocolate, all held together with sweet graham cracker crumbs. Perfect for parties, after-school snacks, or any gathering, these bars are bound to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Servings: 12
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 290
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 13g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 19g
  • Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This S’mores Cookie Bars

S’mores Cookie Bars offer a delightful twist on a classic treat, showcasing the beloved combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers in a bar form. They are not only easy to make, but they also save you the hassle of roasting marshmallows over an open flame. These bars are especially appealing during the summertime or any time you crave that campfire flavor. Plus, they make a great dessert for potlucks, bake sales, or simply a fun afternoon treat at home.

How to Make S’mores Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure your cookie bars don’t stick.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. This step ensures you get a nice, airy texture in your cookie bars.

Step 3: Cooking

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, and graham cracker crumbs. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture and mix until just combined. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. Spread the dough evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Finishing

Allow your S’mores Cookie Bars to cool in the baking dish before cutting them into squares. This cooling time helps the bars set perfectly, ensuring each piece stays together beautifully.

How to Serve S’mores Cookie Bars

These cookie bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience by drizzling a bit of chocolate on top or serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of hot chocolate, making them an ideal treat for chilly evenings.

How to Store S’mores Cookie Bars

To keep your S’mores Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

Expert Tips for Perfect S’mores Cookie Bars

  • Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, for the perfect cookie dough consistency.
  • Graham Crackers: If you want a more intense graham cracker flavor, try adding a little extra graham cracker crumbs to the dough.
  • Mix-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Adding chopped nuts or different types of chocolate can give your cookie bars a nice touch.
  • Marshmallow Toasting: For a fun twist, broil the bars for a minute or two at the end of baking to toast the marshmallows for an added depth of flavor.

Delicious Variations

  • Peanut Butter S’mores Bars: Substitute half of the butter with creamy peanut butter for a nutty twist.
  • Dark Chocolate S’mores: Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor profile.
  • Mint S’mores Bars: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing minty version.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use margarine instead of butter?
    Yes, but using unsalted butter will give you a richer flavor and a better texture.

  • What if I don’t have graham crackers?
    You can substitute crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer cookies in place of graham crackers.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour and gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.

  • How long do these bars last?
    Stored properly, they can last up to 5 days at room temperature or be frozen for up to 3 months.

  • Can I add more chocolate chips?
    Yes! Feel free to increase the amount of chocolate chips according to your preference for a more decadent treat.

Conclusion

S’mores Cookie Bars are a fun, delicious way to bring the classic flavors of s’mores into a convenient bar format. Whether for special occasions or a cozy family night, these bars are sure to please. With their gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and buttery graham cracker base, each bite is sure to evoke fond memories of campfires and warm summer nights. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade goodness!

More Recipes