Name: S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16
Ingredients: - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; - 3/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar; - 1 large egg, at room temperature; - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; - 1 cup all-purpose flour; - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; - 1/4 teaspoon salt; - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; - 1 heaping cup marshmallow creme

The aroma of melting chocolate and toasted marshmallows wafting through the air can transport anyone back to cozy campfire nights. But imagine capturing those nostalgic flavors in a delightful, chewy cookie bar that doesn’t require a fire pit. This recipe for S’mores Cookie Bars is a perfect blend of indulgence and simplicity, making it an irresistible treat to whip up anytime the craving strikes. From gooey marshmallows to rich chocolate nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust, each bite feels like a little celebration of warmth and joy.

One summer evening, sitting around the campfire with friends, I attempted to make s’mores for the first time. The marshmallow melted too fast, leaving sticky sweetness all over my fingers, while the chocolate slipped and melted into a delicious mess. The laughter that night was unforgettable, and these bars capture that blissful, imperfect perfection perfectly.

Tracing the sweet past of S’mores delights

S’mores Cookie Bars charm everyone with their roots tracing back to the classic American campfire treat. Born from the 1920s Girl Scouts’ recipe for “Some Mores,” these bars blend nostalgic flavors of marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker. Over time, bakers have swapped campfires for ovens, crafting a gooey delight that fits even urban kitchens. The evolution into cookie bars brings convenience, making them perfect for gatherings. It’s a sweet testament to how a simple treat can adapt and thrive through generations, keeping its spirit intact.

What sweet surprises do we need?

S’mores Cookie Bars blend the classic campfire treat into a scrumptious dessert, perfect for any occasion. Each ingredient brings its unique magic to the table. Let’s take a look at what makes these bars so irresistibly delicious!

Unsalted Butter 🧈: Softened butter gives the bars a tender texture and rich flavor. If you only have salted butter, just skip the added salt. For the best taste, choose creamy, light-colored butter; it’s often fresher and richer in flavor.
Brown Sugar 🍬: This adds a sweet, molasses-like depth that’s hard to resist. Light or dark, both work beautifully, though dark provides a deeper flavor. If you’re out, white sugar with a splash of molasses is an easy fix.
Egg 🥚: It’s the glue that holds everything together, providing moisture and structure. Fresh eggs make a difference, so check the date. If you need a substitute, unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg can work wonders.
Vanilla Extract 🍦: A dash of vanilla brings warmth and enhances every other flavor. Go for pure vanilla for the best taste. In a pinch, you can use almond extract, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
All-Purpose Flour 🌾: The structure builder of the cookie bars. It’s wise to spoon and level your flour to avoid a dense result. Whole wheat pastry flour can be a healthier alternative if you fancy a nutty flavor twist.
Graham Cracker Crumbs 🍪: These crumbs impart that classic s’more taste, adding texture and a hint of honey. Making your own? Blitz whole crackers in a processor for fresher crumbs. Gluten-free crackers are a great option for a GF version.
Baking Powder 🧁: This is your go-to for lift, making sure your bars rise beautifully. Check your baking powder’s freshness by dropping a bit in water; bubbles mean it’s good to go!
Salt 🧂: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor. Sea salt is often my choice for its clean taste. If you’re using salted butter, you might want to skip this.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips 🍫: Melty pockets of chocolate create that gooey s’more sensation. Dark chocolate chips can add a richer, more intense flavor if you’re a fan of dark chocolate.
Marshmallow Creme ☁️: The sticky gooey layer you can’t skip! Store-bought Fluff is convenient, but homemade offers unbeatable freshness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a DIY batch can make all the difference in flavor.

Enjoy making and savoring these delightful S’mores Cookie Bars, a sweet treat straight from your kitchen!

Must-have gear for s’mores cookie bars success!🍽️

A well-equipped kitchen makes for a smoother baking experience, bringing those delightful s’mores cookie bars to life effortlessly.

Mixing Bowls: Essential for seamlessly combining ingredients. Opt for a set of various sizes to handle everything from mixing dough to storing ingredients.
Handheld or Stand Mixer: Perfect for creaming butter and sugar with ease. If you don’t own one, a sturdy whisk and some elbow grease can do the job, though a bit more effort is needed.
Baking Pan: An 8-inch or 9-inch square pan is ideal for these bars, providing the right thickness. In a pinch, a round cake pan can work, just keep an eye on the baking time.
Parchment Paper: This non-stick wonder ensures easy removal of baked treats, keeping them intact. If unavailable, greasing the pan with butter or cooking spray can be a helpful alternative.
Wire Rack: Crucial for cooling baked goods evenly, preventing soggy bottoms. If you don’t have one, a clean stovetop grate can suffice in a pinch.

Making s’mores cookie bars: how it’s done!👩‍🍳

Step 1: Heat Things Up and Get Ready
Crank your oven up to 350°F (177°C) so it’s nice and toasty when it’s time to bake. Meanwhile, line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides. This will act like tiny handles, making it super easy to lift out your delicious creation once it’s cooled.
Step 2: Creamy Butter Bliss
Grab your trusty mixer and in a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar at medium-high speed until they’re fluffy and well blended, about 2 minutes should do the trick. This step sets the foundation for a smooth, sweet dough.
Step 3: Mix in the Essentials
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and continue mixing until everything is nicely combined. Don’t worry if it looks a bit separated or curdled; that’s perfectly normal. Just make sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to keep things even.
Step 4: Dry Ingredients Dance
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt. Then, gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, beating on medium speed until you have a cohesive dough. This step combines all those wonderful flavors.
Step 5: Layer the Base
Take 2/3 of your cookie dough and press or spread it into the prepared pan. This layer is the sturdy base for all that gooey goodness you’re about to add.
Step 6: Add the Marshmallow Magic
Now comes the fun part! Spread the marshmallow creme over the cookie dough layer. It can be a tad sticky, but just do your best to create an even spread. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just enough to cover the cookie base.
Step 7: Chocolate Wonderland
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the marshmallow layer. It’s like creating a chocolate blanket that will melt into gooey perfection as it bakes.
Step 8: Finish with More Dough
With the remaining cookie dough, mold it into flat pieces and place them over the chocolate chips. It’s okay if there are gaps; they will give a peek into the melty chocolate and fluffy marshmallow layers beneath.
Step 9: Bake into Deliciousness
Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful light golden brown. The key here is to bake until it’s just right, so keep an eye out as oven temperatures can vary slightly.
Step 10: Cool and Slice
Once out of the oven, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This ensures they set properly, making them easier to cut. When cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out and slice them into squares.
Step 11: Storing the Sweetness
If there are any left (though I doubt it), cover and store them at room temperature. They’ll stay deliciously fresh for up to a week, ready to satisfy that s’mores craving whenever it strikes!

Mixing it up with tasty twists!

If you’re aiming for a gluten-free twist, swap out the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend. The bars hold together beautifully, maintaining their delightful chewiness. For a vegan version, replace the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water). The result is a slightly nuttier flavor profile and a perfectly gooey texture.

For a seasonal spin, try adding a handful of pumpkin spice to the dough during autumn, creating a warm, comforting treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of chai. Alternatively, infuse some matcha powder into the marshmallow layer for a unique Japanese-inspired rendition. The earthy notes of matcha complement the rich chocolate chips remarkably well, offering an unexpected yet delicious fusion. Each variation brings its own charm, and the possibilities are as endless as your imagination!

Fun ways to share your s’mores cookie bars

Imagine setting out a rustic wooden platter piled high with s’mores cookie bars, their gooey marshmallow layers peeking invitingly. Top each square with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for that extra touch. Nestle fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and a hint of tartness.

Contrasting textures are the name of the game. Pair these delightful bars with a small bowl of warm, creamy vanilla pudding or a scoop of chilled mint ice cream. A few sprigs of mint as a garnish wouldn’t go amiss—plus, they add a fresh aroma to balance the sweet, smoky richness. Your guests will be reaching for seconds before the first round is even finished!

Perfect sips for s’mores cookie bars indulgence!

When I’m indulging in s’mores cookie bars, I love pairing them with a frothy mug of hot chocolate. There’s something about the creamy, rich cocoa that just hugs those gooey marshmallows and chocolate chunks right back. If I’m in a more refreshing mood, a tall glass of cold milk does wonders, balancing the sweetness beautifully. I’ve even been known to sip on a chai latte now and then, its spicy notes dancing wonderfully with the buttery graham layers. Sometimes, it’s the simple pleasures that make the perfect pairing.

Keeping s’mores cookie bars fresh and tasty

To keep your S’mores Cookie Bars at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge for up to a week. If you’re planning to enjoy them later, freezing is a great option—just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a sealed freezer bag. When you’re ready to reheat, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave will do the trick, but be careful not to overheat, as it can make the marshmallows gooey. Always ensure they’re stored in a cool, dry place to prevent any staleness or spoilage.

Avoid these common mistakes 🖐️

When whipping up these delightful s’mores cookie bars, one might accidentally overmix the dough. Remember, just a gentle blend suffices until the ingredients are combined; this keeps your bars deliciously tender instead of tough.

Another common hiccup? Sticky marshmallow creme woes. For an easier spread, try lightly wetting your spatula or using a clean knife. It’s like magic!

Lastly, don’t rush the cooling process. Let those bars cool entirely before slicing to avoid a gooey mess. With patience and these little tricks, your s’mores cookie bars will be irresistible every time!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Absolutely! If you’re using salted butter, just skip the added salt in the recipe. It should balance out nicely without affecting the overall flavor.
Is there a substitute for marshmallow creme if I don’t have it on hand?
You can use mini marshmallows as an alternative. Just spread a generous layer over the cookie dough before adding the chocolate chips. It won’t be as smooth, but it’ll still give you that gooey texture.
Can these bars be frozen for later use?
Yes, indeed! Once fully cooled, you can wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
How can I make my own graham cracker crumbs?
It’s quite simple! Just place whole graham crackers in a food processor and pulse until you achieve a fine crumb. Alternatively, you can seal them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
What’s the best way to ensure even layers when spreading the marshmallow creme?
The stickiness of marshmallow creme can be tricky. Try spraying a spatula lightly with non-stick spray or using a buttered knife. It helps smooth the creme evenly across the dough without too much hassle.

Why wait? Enjoy now!🎉

So, there you have it—S’mores Cookie Bars that are calling your name! Why not give them a try and see where your creativity takes you? Whether you add a sprinkle of cinnamon or swap in dark chocolate, these bars are as flexible as your imagination. Go on, embrace your inner chef and make these your own. They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering or a sweet treat to savor for yourself. Happy baking, and remember, every bite is a little taste of campfire joy!

S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe