Imagine a treat that captures the essence of campfire nostalgia but is conveniently crafted in your kitchen. S’mores Cookie Bars bring the delightful combination of gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and a hint of graham cracker crunch into your life without the need for an open flame. This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, offering the perfect balance of textures and flavors that’ll have you reaching for just one more piece.

One summer evening, gathered around a campfire with family, I watched as chocolate melted perfectly into fluffy marshmallows. The joy of sharing those s’mores under the starlit sky was pure magic. Those fond memories inspired me to create these S’mores Cookie Bars, capturing that moment of warmth and togetherness in every bite.

From campfires to your kitchen: a sweet evolution

S’mores cookie bars bring a delightful twist to the beloved campfire treat, capturing that nostalgic gooey goodness in a single bite. Originating from the classic s’more, which dates back to early 1900s American camping traditions, these bars have evolved to fit indoor baking. They cleverly layer graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows, offering the perfect balance of crispy, melty, and chewy. This evolution showcases how culinary creativity lets us enjoy timeless flavors year-round, without a campfire in sight. It’s a tasty nod to our love for comfort and innovation.

What makes these bars irresistible?

There’s something undeniably special about s’mores cookie bars. From the sweet marshmallow goo to the crunchy graham cracker bite, each ingredient brings its charm to the table, knitting together a nostalgic and delightful treat. Let’s explore what makes each component so crucial in this blissful bake.

Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup; 8 Tbsp; 113g) 🧈: This smooth operator softens up the dough, providing that melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you’re out, try using coconut oil, but know it’ll offer a tropical twist. Always go for high-quality butter for that pure, rich taste—it’s a game-changer in baking.
Light or Dark Brown Sugar (3/4 cup; 150g) 🍬: Lending a sweet, caramel-like depth, brown sugar is the secret to chewy-textured cookie bars. If you’ve run out, granulated sugar with a spoonful of molasses does the trick. Dark sugar provides a more pronounced flavor profile—perfect for those rich tastes.
Large Egg 🥚: Our little binder that holds everything together. Eggs help provide structure and a tender crumb. Should you need a swap, flaxseed meal mixed with water can stand in as a vegan substitute. Always pick the freshest eggs for the best results.
Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) 🌿: Just a splash, but what a difference it makes! It enhances all other flavors and gives that aromatic hint. If you’re in a pinch, a vanilla bean or paste works wonders. Quality matters, so opt for pure extract over imitation.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup; 125g) 🌾: The backbone of the cookie bars, forming the sturdy structure we love. For a gluten-free option, I’ve used almond flour—it’s delightful but slightly alters the texture. Always measure flour correctly by spooning and leveling for precision.
Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 cup; 120g) 🍪: Bringing that classic s’mores flavor with a sandy, crunchy vibe. If unavailable, digestive biscuits make a fine substitute. Crushing your own graham crackers often yields the freshest taste.
Baking Powder (1/2 tsp) ⚗️: This magical little powder helps lift the bars, making them light and fluffy. If you’re out, baking soda can step in, but remember to adjust with an acid like lemon juice. Freshness counts, so check expiration dates.
Salt (1/4 tsp) 🧂: A pinch of salt balances sweetness and boosts flavor complexity. Kosher or sea salt works beautifully here. It might seem minor, but its impact on flavor is substantial—don’t skip it!
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1 cup; 180g) 🍫: These gems melt into gooey pockets of delight. If you fancy a change, try dark chocolate for a richer taste or white chocolate for sweetness. Quality matters—choose a brand you love to eat on its own.
Marshmallow Creme (1 heaping cup) ☁️: The signature gooey layer! Store-bought is super convenient, but if you’re adventurous, homemade adds a personal touch. It’s sticky, but oh-so-worth-it for that authentic s’mores experience. Plus, it’s mostly air, so indulge guilt-free!

Must-have gadgets for gooey s’mores magic🍽️

To create scrumptious S’mores Cookie Bars, having the right kitchen tools can make all the difference in your baking experience. Here’s a rundown of essentials that will make things a breeze:

Mixers: Whether it’s a handheld or stand mixer, this tool is indispensable for achieving that perfect creamy consistency in your dough. No mixer? A sturdy whisk and a bit of elbow grease can do the trick.
Parchment Paper: This is a lifesaver for easy removal of your bars and ensures nothing sticks to the pan. If you run out, try greasing the pan thoroughly as an alternative.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters in baking, so having both dry and liquid measuring tools is key to getting your ratios just right. Remember, consistency is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Spatula: A good spatula helps spread your ingredients evenly, especially when dealing with sticky marshmallow crème. No spatula? A butter knife works in a pinch.

Equipped with these tools, you’ll breeze through the process and be munching on delicious cookie bars in no time!

Crafting your s’mores cookie bars step-by-step!👩‍🍳

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven and Ready the Pan
Set your oven to a toasty 350°F (177°C) to get it all warmed up. Grab an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan and give it a parchment paper lining, letting some hang over the edges. This little trick will save you a load of hassle later when you’re lifting out those scrumptious bars. Set it aside for now.
Step 2: Creamy Dream Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, use either a handheld mixer or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to cream together the softened butter and brown sugar. Let them mingle on medium-high speed for around 2 minutes, until they’re well mixed and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Toss in the egg and splash of vanilla extract, then beat it all together until it’s blended. Don’t worry if it looks a bit curdled; that’s completely normal. Pause to scrape down the bowl’s sides and bottom to ensure everything is well mixed.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt. This little step ensures all those dry ingredients are mingling nicely before they meet the wet ones.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Introduce the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and beat on medium speed until they’re just combined. You should have a lovely cookie dough that’s slightly graham-y and delicious.
Step 6: Form the Base Layer
Take about two-thirds of your dough and press it firmly into the prepared pan, creating an even layer at the bottom. It’s okay if it’s a little sticky; just press away until it’s smooth.
Step 7: Spread the Fluff Love
Now, spread that marshmallow creme on top of the dough. It’s going to be sticky, but persevere to get a nice, even layer. Your kitchen might get a little messy, but it’s part of the fun!
Step 8: Chocolatey Top Layer
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the marshmallow layer, making sure they’re distributed evenly for chocolate in every bite.
Step 9: Cover with Remaining Dough
With the leftover cookie dough, flatten portions and layer them on top of the chocolate chips. It doesn’t have to be perfect; a little peek of chocolate or marshmallow is just fine.
Step 10: Time to Bake
Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is a light golden brown. Your kitchen will smell divine by this point.
Step 11: Cool and Slice
Once baked to perfection, take them out and let the pan cool completely on a wire rack. This waiting game will pay off when slicing.
Step 12: Serve and Store
Use the parchment paper overhang to easily lift out the bars and cut them into squares. If there are any leftovers, store them covered at room temperature, and they’ll be good for up to a week. Enjoy every gooey, chocolatey bite!

Creating twists on classic s’mores cookie bars

This treat can easily fit into various dietary preferences with a few tweaks. For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend and ensure your graham crackers are also gluten-free. The result? A chewy delight with a slightly nuttier taste. Vegan adaptation is simple: use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and vegan chocolate chips, with surprisingly creamy results. For a festive twist, add a handful of dried cranberries for a sweet-tart surprise, or sprinkle in some crushed peppermint candies for a holiday flair. Each variation provides its own unique character, making these bars endlessly adaptable to your cravings.

Delicious ways to share and show off

For an unforgettable dinner party twist on your S’mores Cookie Bars, serve them on rustic wooden boards to emphasize their campfire origins. Add a scattering of fresh berries around the bars for a pop of color and a hint of tartness. Want to get a bit fancy? Place a dollop of whipped cream next to each bar, with a light dusting of cocoa powder for a touch of elegance. Consider pairing these treats with a side of vanilla bean ice cream; it’s like the cool to their gooey warmth. Your guests might just start calling you the dessert whisperer!

Perfect drink matches for gooey goodness!

When it comes to enjoying S’mores Cookie Bars, I’ve found a cozy cup of hot chocolate really complements the gooey marshmallow and rich chocolate layers. There’s something magical about sipping on a steamy mug while savoring each sweet bite. If you’re not in the mood for something hot, an ice-cold glass of milk does the trick too. It’s like they’re childhood best friends reunited, bringing out the nostalgia with every dunk. And for a fruity twist, a berry-infused iced tea adds a refreshing zing that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Whatever you choose, these drinks are sure to make your cookie bar experience a tasty adventure.

Keeping your s’mores bars fresh and delicious

To keep your s’mores cookie bars fresh and tasty, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days—if they last that long! For longer storage, pop them in the fridge for up to a week. When it’s time to indulge again, a quick zap in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds will bring back their gooey goodness. Remember to let them cool completely before storing to prevent any moisture buildup. And if reheating in the microwave, ensure you use a microwave-safe dish to keep things safe and sound.

Avoid these common mistakes 🖐️

Embarking on the adventure of making S’mores Cookie Bars can sometimes lead to a few blunders. One common hiccup is overbaking. To avoid this, remember that the bars will continue to set as they cool. Pull them from the oven when the top is just lightly golden.

Another pitfall is uneven spreading of the marshmallow creme, owing to its stickiness. If you find yourself in a sticky situation, use a greased spatula or slightly wet fingers to smooth it out.

Lastly, don’t forget to properly line your pan with parchment paper. It’s your trusty sidekick when it’s time to lift the cooled bars out. Happy baking!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter in the recipe?
Absolutely! If you decide to use salted butter, just omit the 1/4 teaspoon of salt mentioned in the ingredients to keep the flavor balanced.
Is there an alternative to marshmallow creme if I can’t find it?
You can whip up a homemade version using egg whites, sugar, and corn syrup. Or, if you’re in a rush, soften mini marshmallows and spread them over the dough.
Can these S’mores Cookie Bars be made gluten-free?
Sure thing! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and gluten-free graham crackers. Make sure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free, too.
What’s the best way to store these cookie bars?
To keep them fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll be delicious for up to a week, but they rarely last that long!
How can I make the recipe vegan?
Substitute the butter with a plant-based option, use a flax egg instead of a regular egg, and ensure your chocolate chips and marshmallow creme are vegan-friendly. Enjoy the same delightful taste!

Final thoughts on your s’mores adventure🎉

You’re all set to embark on a delicious adventure with these S’mores Cookie Bars! Dive into the nostalgia of campfire treats right from your kitchen. It’s your chance to put a personal spin on them—maybe swap in dark chocolate or sprinkle in some crushed pretzels for a salty twist. The beauty of baking is making it your own, so have a little fun and experiment. Don’t worry about perfection; the yum factor is guaranteed. Now, grab your apron and let your creativity run wild—happy baking, and enjoy every gooey, crunchy bite!