Ingredients
Cookie Base
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), room temperature
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 6 full sheets)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling and Topping
- 1/3 cup peanut butter
- 1 1/2 cups milk, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate chips
- 7 ounces marshmallow crème (1 jar)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the 1/2 cup of butter, 1/4 cup peanut butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix well.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to form a dough.
- Form the Base Layer: Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9×9 inch baking pan to form the base layer. Make sure the surface is compact and level.
- Add Peanut Butter Layer: Spread the 1/3 cup peanut butter evenly over the base layer to create a smooth peanut butter layer.
- Top with Chocolate and Marshmallow: Sprinkle the 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips evenly over the peanut butter layer, then dollop the marshmallow crème over the chocolate chips. Use a spatula or knife to gently swirl the marshmallow crème to cover the chocolate chips partially.
- Finish with Remaining Dough: Crumble the remaining one-third of the dough over the marshmallow and chocolate layer, distributing it evenly to top the bars.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Use real marshmallow crème for the best authentic s’mores flavor; it can be found in most grocery stores near peanut butter or baking supplies.
- Press the base layer firmly to avoid crumbling when slicing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate to keep longer.
- For a nuttier texture, consider adding chopped peanuts or substituting crunchy peanut butter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American