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There’s a certain nostalgia that washes over me whenever I bite into a S’mores-inspired treat. The delightful crunch of graham crackers, the warm gooey marshmallows, and the rich chocolate create a symphony of flavors reminiscent of summer campfires. This is precisely why I’m excited to share my version of S’mores Cookie Bars! The best part? You can whip these up in just an hour, making them perfect for any gathering or even a cozy night in.

Imagine a thick, chewy bar with a buttery graham cracker crust, oozing with tender marshmallows and studded with chocolate chips—all the classic S’mores flavors you love, but with a fun, handheld twist. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a simple family dessert night, these cookie bars are a crowd-pleaser and a delightful way to bring a bit of summer warmth into any season. Get ready to indulge your sweet tooth and impress your friends with this easy, indulgent recipe!

Why Will You Love S’mores Cookie Bars?

Nostalgic Experience: Each bite will transport you back to campfires and summer nights.
Effortless Preparation: Just an hour from start to finish makes this dessert a breeze!
Ultimate Indulgence: Gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate make for a decadent treat.
Crowd Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will be reaching for seconds.
Versatile Fun: Customize with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. You could even check out other delicious desserts to mix things up!

S’mores Cookie Bars Ingredients

For the Crust
• Graham Crackers – Crushed for the crust, they provide that essential classic S’mores foundation.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and binds crust ingredients; melted coconut oil is a great dairy-free substitute.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust, but feel free to swap in light brown sugar for a deeper flavor.

For the Cookie Layer
• Unsalted Butter – This provides moisture and flavor to the cookie base; margarine can work as a substitute.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and texture; using brown sugar will give a chewier result.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and caramel notes; dark brown sugar is an excellent alternative.
• Large Eggs – These bind ingredients and help with leavening, but flax eggs can be used for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure extract for the best quality.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness; kosher salt gives a better texture.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise; no substitutes necessary here.

For the Mix-Ins
• Mini Marshmallows – Provide that signature gooey texture; regular marshmallows can also be cut into smaller pieces.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Add richness to the bars; feel free to use dark or milk chocolate based on your preference.
• Hershey Bars – Broken into pieces for classic S’mores flavor on top; any chocolate bar can work or be omitted for less sweetness.

These ingredients come together to create a treat that’s not only easy but also truly indulgent. Get ready to make your own batch of heavenly S’mores Cookie Bars!

How to Make S’mores Cookie Bars

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 13×9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper—this will help your cookie bars release easily later.
Combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Press this mixture into the bottom of the pan, creating your delicious crust. Bake for 7 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.
Cream softened unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars using a mixer. Beat for about 2 minutes, until fluffy and well combined, making sure the sugar is fully incorporated.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until everything is fully blended, creating a smooth batter that smells absolutely divine.
Mix in the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda gradually until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Then gently fold in the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips, letting their magic meld together.
Spread the cookie dough mixture evenly over the pre-baked graham cracker crust. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, keeping an eye on it as it becomes golden and fragrant.
Sprinkle the top with broken Hershey bars after removing it from the oven. Return it to the oven for another 20-25 minutes, or until the bars are set and golden—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Cool completely before cutting into squares, allowing all those sweet flavors to mingle as they become the perfect chewy treat.

Optional: Serve warm for extra gooeyness topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for S’mores Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture.

Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, keep these S’mores Cookie Bars in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to seal them well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer, wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating: To enjoy warm, pop a square in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, and they’ll be deliciously gooey again!

S’mores Cookie Bars Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists that will elevate your S’mores Cookie Bars into something uniquely yours!

Nutty Additions: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that complements the chewy texture beautifully. Nuts add richness and depth to every bite.
Peanut Butter Bliss: Substitute half of the chocolate chips with peanut butter chips for a creamy, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the classic S’mores taste.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top before serving to add a luscious sweetness that enhances the overall indulgence.
Minty Freshness: Use peppermint chocolate bars instead of Hershey bars for a refreshing holiday twist that will invigorate your taste buds.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the cookie batter for a surprising warm heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a tart zing that balances the rich flavors and adds a lovely chew.
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends without sacrificing taste or texture.
Dark Chocolate Indulgence: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for an intense cocoa flavor that takes the classic S’mores experience to new heights.

Embrace these variations and let your creativity flow while making these S’mores Cookie Bars your very own!

What to Serve with S’mores Cookie Bars?

Pair your dessert with some tempting side options to create the perfect indulgent experience.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creamy texture complements the chewy bars, while the coolness contrasts beautifully with the warm chocolate. Perfect for balancing sweetness!
Chocolate Drizzle: A rich chocolate sauce poured over the top adds an extra layer of decadence, enhancing the classic S’mores experience. It’s a sweet touch that will delight every chocolate lover.
Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries to add a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness, creating a delightful medley of flavors. The burst of fruitiness is both vibrant and energizing.
Milk: A tall glass of cold milk pairs wonderfully with cookie bars, helping to wash down the sweetness while enhancing the nostalgia of classic treats. A timeless companion!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the cookie bars for an indulgent touch, providing a gooey texture and contrasting flavor that takes them to another level.
Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the bars perfectly, bringing out the chocolate flavors while offering a sophisticated touch to your dessert experience.

Make Ahead Options

These S’mores Cookie Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the graham cracker crust up to 24 hours in advance, simply press the mixture into your baking pan and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Additionally, you can mix the cookie layer ingredients together and refrigerate that batter for up to 3 days—just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your dessert, just spread the refrigerated cookie dough over the crust, bake as directed, and you’ll still achieve that delightful, chewy texture. This way, you’ll have indulgent S’mores Cookie Bars ready with minimal effort, perfect for gatherings or those cozy nights in!

Expert Tips for S’mores Cookie Bars

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for consistent texture when creaming, resulting in perfectly soft cookie layers.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to tough cookie bars.
Check for Doneness: They should look slightly underbaked when you remove them from the oven for the perfect chewy consistency in your S’mores Cookie Bars.
Customize Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or flavored chocolate bars on top to make the recipe uniquely yours.
Cooling Time: Allow the cookie bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, perfect squares that hold their shape.

S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for S’mores Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! For the best S’mores Cookie Bars, make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming and optimal texture. If you’re using eggs, choose large ones, ideally from a trusted brand for quality. Vanilla extract should be pure for the best flavor—avoid imitation if possible, as it tends to lack depth in taste.

How should I store my S’mores Cookie Bars?
Store your S’mores Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their chewy texture. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to seal them well to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze S’mores Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze your S’mores Cookie Bars, follow these steps: first, let them cool completely after baking. Then, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that gooey goodness!

What should I do if my cookie bars turn out too dry?
If your S’mores Cookie Bars turn out dry, there are a couple of troubleshooting tips. First, ensure you didn’t overbake them—check for a slightly underbaked appearance when pulling them from the oven. If you’ve already baked them, consider serving them warm or topping them with a scoop of ice cream to introduce some moisture back into each bite. Also, hydration in the dough is key; make sure you’re measuring ingredients accurately, especially flour.

Are S’mores Cookie Bars safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these S’mores Cookie Bars away from pets. The ingredients, especially chocolate, can be toxic to dogs and other animals. Always store your treats out of reach to ensure your furry friends stay safe!

Can I make S’mores Cookie Bars gluten-free?
Yes! If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to verify that your graham crackers are gluten-free as well to stay true to the S’mores experience!