Craving that warm, gooey campfire flavor but don’t want to build an actual fire? I get it; sometimes, we just want that s’mores goodness without the mess. That’s where this S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe comes in; it brings the rich, nostalgic taste of classic s’mores right to your kitchen oven. With a golden, buttery cookie dough base, sweet melted chocolate chips, and soft, toasted mini marshmallows, every bite delivers that perfect balance of chewy and crispy we all love.
What I love most about this S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe is how effortlessly it captures the charm of summer nights; no fire pit needed. It’s simple, quick, and oven-baked to perfection in about 30 minutes. This S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe is your go-to dessert for bake sales, backyard parties, or cozy nights at home when you want something special but stress-free.
Why You Will Love This S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe
This S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe takes everything you adore about classic s’mores and makes it easier, richer, and perfect for sharing; no sticky fingers or campfire required. With every bite of this S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe, you get layers of crunchy graham cracker crust, gooey toasted marshmallows, and melty chocolate wrapped in a soft cookie dough base. It's the ultimate crowd-pleasing dessert; whether you're baking for a party, craving something nostalgic, or just want a cozy treat, this S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe has you covered. You’ll keep coming back for more—guaranteed.
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Ingredients
For the Cookie Base:
- Butter, softened (creates the rich, buttery foundation)
- Brown sugar, packed (adds moisture and caramel notes)
- Granulated sugar (provides structure and sweetness)
- Large eggs (binds everything together)
- Vanilla extract (enhances all the other flavors)
- All-purpose flour (the base structure)
- Baking soda (helps bars rise slightly)
- Salt (balances sweetness)
- Chocolate chips (use semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
For the S'mores Topping:
- Hershey's chocolate chips or chunks
- Graham cracker crumbs (or whole crackers, crushed)
- Mini marshmallows (regular size works too, just cut them up)
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Make the Cookie Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9x13 inch pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream softened butter with both sugars until fluffy (3-4 minutes). Beat in eggs and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually mix into wet ingredients. Fold in 1 ½ cups chocolate chips.
- Pro tip: Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing.
Layer and Top
- Press ⅔ of the cookie dough into your prepared pan, creating an even base. Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the dough and press gently. Crumble the remaining cookie dough on top, then evenly distribute mini marshmallows and remaining chocolate chips across the surface.
Bake and Cool
- Bake for 22-25 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown and the base is set. The center should look slightly underdone – it continues cooking from residual heat. Cool completely in the pan (about 2 hours) before cutting for clean slices.
- Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
Cream butter and sugars, then mix in dry ingredients and chocolate chips.
- Step 2: Layer and Top
Layer cookie dough, sprinkle graham crumbs, then top with chocolate and marshmallows.
- Step 3: Bake and Cool
Bake until golden and gooey; cool completely before slicing.
Expert Cooking Tips and Tricks
- The secret to perfect smores cookie bars lies in the details. First, don't overbake – these bars continue cooking even after you remove them from the oven. Look for golden marshmallows and edges that are just set.
- For extra gooey results, slightly underbake by 2-3 minutes. The residual heat will finish the cooking while keeping the center wonderfully soft. If you prefer chewier bars, bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until the edges are more golden.
- Temperature matters significantly. If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough for 15 minutes before pressing into the pan. This prevents the bottom layer from getting too thin when you press it down.
- For the cleanest cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped clean between cuts. This prevents the marshmallow from sticking and gives you those perfect, Instagram-worthy squares.
Recipe Variations and Dietary Modifications
Creative Flavor Twists
- Transform these easy s'mores cookie bars into exciting variations. For peanut butter s'mores bars, add ½ cup of peanut butter to the cookie dough and sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups on top.
- Create campfire s'mores vs oven s'mores by adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the dough for that subtle campfire flavor. For a grown-up version, add a tablespoon of bourbon to the dough and use dark chocolate chips.
Dietary Adaptations
- Keto-friendly version: Replace flour with almond flour and use sugar-free chocolate chips and a keto sweetener blend. Vegan option: Use plant-based butter, flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water), and vegan marshmallows.
- For those wondering about easy s'mores bars without graham crackers, try crushing vanilla wafers, shortbread cookies, or even cinnamon graham crackers for different flavor profiles.
Seasonal Variations
- During fall, add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg. For Christmas, use crushed candy canes instead of graham crackers. Summer versions can include freeze-dried strawberries mixed into the marshmallow layer.
Essential Equipment for Success
- A 9x13 inch metal baking pan works best for even heating, though glass pans work too (just reduce temperature by 25°F). Line with parchment paper for easy removal – trust me on this one.
- An electric mixer makes creaming butter and sugar much easier, but a wooden spoon and some elbow grease work fine too. A large mixing bowl is essential since this dough gets quite voluminous with all the mix-ins.
- For crushing graham crackers, a food processor works perfectly, but placing them in a sealed bag and rolling with a rolling pin is just as effective. A sharp knife is crucial for clean cuts once cooled.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Proper Storage Methods
- Store these chocolate chip cookie smores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking. The marshmallows will soften over time, but they'll still taste amazing.
Freezing Instructions
- These bars freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
- For meal prep, you can make the cookie dough base up to 2 days ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for easier spreading.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Press the cookie dough base into your pan and cover tightly. This can be done up to 24 hours ahead. Add toppings just before baking for the best results. X days/weeks/months.
The Campfire Secret You Can Bake Anytime
I still remember the first time I tried to recreate that classic campfire s’mores flavor in my kitchen—no flames, no smoke, just a craving that wouldn’t go away. After a few experiments (and a few burnt marshmallows), I landed on this S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe, and honestly, it was a game-changer. The gooey chocolate, buttery base, and golden marshmallows came together so perfectly, I didn’t miss the fire one bit.
The real secret? Letting the marshmallows toast under the broiler just long enough to get that golden campfire finish. It’s the tiny trick that brings back all the nostalgia without ever leaving the kitchen. Now, this S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe is my go-to dessert for summer nights, rainy weekends, and anytime I want to share a little slice of that fireside magic.
FAQ
How long can S’mores cookies last?
S’mores cookies can last up to 5 days at room temperature in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.
How can you tell when cookie bars are done?
Cookie bars are done when the edges are golden brown, the center is set but slightly soft, and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs (not raw batter).
How to prevent marshmallows from melting in cookies?
Use mini marshmallows and partially freeze them before baking; also, avoid placing them too close to the edges where heat hits first.
How long will cookie bars last?
Cookie bars stay fresh for 4–5 days at room temp in a sealed container, or up to 2 months in the freezer if well wrapped.
Sweet Ending Worth Sharing
These S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe are pure magic in every bite; they capture that gooey marshmallow, melted chocolate, and buttery cookie goodness without the campfire. This S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe is perfect for backyard parties, cozy nights, or anytime you're craving a nostalgic dessert. Once you try this S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe, it’ll become your go-to treat again and again.
They’re also super flexible; follow the recipe as-is or make it your own—either way, these layered bars vanish fast. While you’re here, why not try my other favorites too? This S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe pairs perfectly with a rich Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe or the bright, tangy flavors of a Raspberry Lemon Bars Recipe; both are just as easy and delicious.
Now grab those ingredients, warm up your oven, and let’s bring this S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe to life. Trust me, it’s a dessert you won’t forget. And hey, don’t forget to share your own version of this S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe—I’d love to see your twist on this gooey, chocolatey favorite!
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe
S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch baking pan Preferably metal for even heat
- 1 Mixing bowl Large size
- 1 Electric mixer or whisk For creaming butter/sugar
- 1 Parchment paper For easy removal
- 1 Measuring cups & spoons Standard set
- 1 Spatula For spreading dough
- 1 Sharp knife For slicing clean squares
Ingredients
Cookie Base
- 1 cup butter softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips semi-sweet or milk chocolate
Topping
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs or 12 crackers, crushed
- 2 cups mini marshmallows or regular, chopped
- ½ cup Hershey’s chocolate chips or chunks
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prep the pan
- Cream butter and sugars
- Add eggs and vanilla
- Mix in dry ingredients
- Fold in chocolate chips
- Press ⅔ dough in pan
- Add graham crumbs and toppings
- Bake at 350°F for 22–25 minutes
- Cool in pan completely
- Slice into bars and serve
Notes
- Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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