S’mores Cookie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these cookie bars because they combine all the best parts of s’mores—crisp graham crackers, melted chocolate, and fluffy marshmallows—into one easy-to-make treat. They’re perfect for sharing, portable, and don’t require a campfire to enjoy. The texture is chewy and soft with a delicious gooey marshmallow layer that sets them apart from regular cookie bars.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 3/4 cup (150 g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 cup (120 g) graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full-sheet graham crackers)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (180 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 heaping cup marshmallow creme (store-bought “Fluff” or homemade)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
7. Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
8. Spread the marshmallow creme evenly over the crust layer.
9. Crumble the remaining dough over the marshmallow layer, gently pressing to cover as much as possible.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the marshmallow is bubbly.
11. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 bars.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate or dark chocolate depending on your preference.
• Mix in crushed graham crackers on top for added texture.
• Use homemade marshmallow creme for a fresher flavor.
• Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for extra decadence.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week. To warm, microwave individual bars for 10-15 seconds to soften the marshmallow layer or heat in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use marshmallows instead of marshmallow creme?

Yes, mini marshmallows can be used, but spread them evenly over the crust before baking.

What if I don’t have graham crackers?

You can substitute with digestive biscuits or any plain, slightly sweet crackers crushed into crumbs.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.

How do I store leftover bars?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan and adjust baking time as needed.

Will the marshmallow creme melt completely?

It will soften and bubble but remains gooey rather than fully melting.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce added salt slightly to balance flavors.

How do I prevent the top dough from burning?

Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.

Are these bars chewy or crispy?

They’re chewy with a soft, gooey marshmallow center and slightly crisp edges.

Conclusion

S’mores cookie bars are a delicious, nostalgic treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any time you crave that classic campfire flavor. With layers of buttery graham cracker crust, melty chocolate, and fluffy marshmallow, these bars satisfy every craving without the need for a fire. They’re great for parties, snacks, or dessert and are sure to become a family favorite.

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