If you’re craving a nostalgic treat that packs all the joy of a campfire classic into every bite, the S’Mores Cookie Bars Recipe is your new best friend. These bars bring together the buttery richness of cookie dough, the satisfying crunch of graham crumbs, melty chocolate chunks, and the sweet surprise of dehydrated marshmallows into one unforgettable dessert. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, this recipe captures the essence of s’mores in a way that’s as fun to bake as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but thoughtfully combined to create the ultimate texture and flavor profile. Each plays a crucial role, from the creamy butter that gives the dough its softness to the crispy graham cracker crumbs that add just the right crunch and a touch of nostalgia.
- 2 cups salted butter (softened): Adds richness and a tender crumb while balancing sweetness with a hint of salt.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with browning during baking.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that holds everything together with just the right chewiness.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: Brings that essential s’mores flavor and a pleasing crisp texture.
- 1 cup chocolate chunks: Melts beautifully and gives pockets of gooey chocolate throughout.
- 1 cup dehydrated marshmallow bits: Adds sweetness and texture without melting away during baking.
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips: Small bursts of extra chocolate that enhance every bite.
How to Make S’Mores Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This simple setup ensures even baking and easy removal of your cookie bars once they’re done.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a large bowl or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients Gradually
Next, add the all-purpose flour and graham cracker crumbs one cup at a time, mixing just enough to combine after each addition. Once incorporated, crank the mixer on high for two additional minutes to ensure a smooth, even dough.
Step 4: Mix in the Chocolate and Marshmallows
Stir in the chocolate chunks, dehydrated marshmallow bits, and mini chocolate chips by hand to evenly distribute the goodies throughout the dough without breaking them down too much.
Step 5: Transfer and Even Out the Dough
Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan using your hands. Feel free to sprinkle a few extra chocolate pieces or marshmallows on top and gently press them in for a beautifully inviting look.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the bars for 40 minutes until set and golden. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will be impossible to resist. Let them cool completely so they firm up and slice cleanly.
Step 7: Slice and Enjoy
Once cooled, slice the bars into squares and get ready to indulge. Store leftovers in an airtight container where they’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks, perfect for snacking or sharing.
How to Serve S’Mores Cookie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your S’Mores Cookie Bars Recipe by topping the bars with a few toasted mini marshmallows or a light drizzle of melted chocolate for that extra wow factor. A sprinkle of crushed graham crackers can add a nice rustic touch as well.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a cold glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a simple cup of hot cocoa to elevate the s’mores experience and provide a lovely balance to the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these bars skewered with fruit slices or alongside a mini campfire setup for parties. Wrapping individual pieces in parchment paper tied with twine also makes for charming, gift-ready treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your S’Mores Cookie Bars Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This maintains their softness and flavor without sacrificing any of the gooey goodness.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They can last up to three months this way and thaw quickly on the counter or in the fridge.
Reheating
If you prefer them warm, gently reheat a slice in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or briefly in a low-temperature oven. This brings back that melty, fresh-baked feel that’s impossible to resist.
FAQs
Can I substitute the butter for a dairy-free alternative?
Absolutely! Using a high-quality dairy-free butter substitute works well and still gives a rich texture, though the flavor might be slightly different but still delicious.
Are dehydrated marshmallows necessary, or can I use fresh ones?
Dehydrated marshmallow bits hold up better during baking and keep their shape and texture, whereas fresh marshmallows tend to melt completely and could affect the bar’s structure.
How do I prevent the cookie bars from becoming too dry?
Make sure not to overbake your bars; removing them promptly when they are set but still slightly soft in the center helps retain moisture and a pleasant chewiness.
Can these bars be made gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour and graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free versions and be sure to check that your marshmallows and chocolate are gluten-free as well for a safe and tasty treat.
What’s the best way to cut the bars without crumbling?
Allow the bars to cool completely and chill them briefly if needed. Using a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry between cuts helps achieve clean slices.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly special about the S’Mores Cookie Bars Recipe that makes every bake feel like a cozy celebration. Whether you’re sharing them with family, friends, or treating yourself, these bars offer a perfect blend of flavors and textures that never disappoint. So grab your ingredients and dive in — your new favorite dessert awaits!
Print
S’Mores Cookie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 15 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these irresistible S’Mores Cookie Bars, combining buttery cookie dough with graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chunks, and dehydrated marshmallow bits for a nostalgic campfire treat reimagined as a deliciously easy-to-make dessert bar.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 2 cups salted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
Mix-ins
- 1 cup chocolate chunks
- 1 cup dehydrated marshmallow bits
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2 minutes. This step is essential to incorporate air and ensure a tender cookie bar.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and graham cracker crumbs one cup at a time, mixing gently between each addition. Once all the dry ingredients are added, increase the speed to high and mix for an additional 2 minutes to form a smooth, cohesive dough.
- Incorporate Mix-ins: Fold in the chocolate chunks, dehydrated marshmallow bits, and mini chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Transfer and Shape Dough: Pour the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan. Use your hands to spread and press the dough evenly across the pan. For extra gooeyness and visual appeal, sprinkle additional chocolate chunks or marshmallows on top and gently press them into the dough.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. The bars should be golden around the edges and set in the center when done. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, which helps them firm up for easier slicing.
- Slice and Serve: Once completely cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper, cut into 15 bars, and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Softened butter ensures proper creaming with the sugar for a lighter texture.
- Dehydrated marshmallow bits are used to prevent melting completely; regular marshmallows can be substituted but will melt and spread more.
- For a gluten-free variation, substitute the all-purpose flour and graham cracker crumbs with certified gluten-free versions.
- Allow bars to cool fully; cutting too early may cause them to crumble or stick.
- These bars store well at room temperature but can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
