The Best s’mores cookie bars Recipe

The Best s’mores cookie bars are the ultimate no-fuss dessert that brings together the nostalgic flavors of a campfire treat with the convenience of a deliciously chewy cookie bar. Imagine biting into a perfectly tender graham cracker-infused cookie layered with melted chocolate and luscious marshmallow fluff—this recipe will quickly become your go-to when you want a crowd-pleasing, irresistible sweet that feels both cozy and delightfully indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in The Best s’mores cookie bars. From the rich butter that gives the cookie dough tenderness to the crushed graham crackers adding that subtle crunch, every element works harmoniously to bring this classic treat to life in bar form.

• 1/2 cup Butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture for the tender cookie base.
• 1/3 cup Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness and chewiness to the dough.
• 1/4 cup Granulated sugar: Balances the brown sugar for a lighter sweetness and subtle crisp edges.
• 1 egg: Binds ingredients together while helping with structure and softness.
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract: Enhances all other flavors with warm, aromatic notes.
• 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour: Forms the foundation of the cookie dough for perfect texture.
• 1/2 cup Graham crackers, finely crushed: Infuses that iconic s’mores flavor with a hint of crunch.
• 1/4 tsp Salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies the overall flavor.
• 3/4 tsp Baking soda: Helps the dough rise just enough for soft yet sturdy cookie bars.
• 5 standard Hershey bars: Creates the gooey chocolate layer essential to classic s’mores.
• 1 1/2 cups Marshmallow fluff: Brings that sweet, pillowy marshmallow topping without the mess of roasting marshmallows.

How to Make The Best s’mores cookie bars

Step 1: Prepare your pan and preheat the oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This simple prep step is crucial because it ensures your cookie bars bake evenly and release easily once baked, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the butter and sugars

Beat the softened butter together with both brown and granulated sugars until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step builds the foundation of your cookie dough’s texture—creaming these together incorporates air, resulting in tender cookie bars with just the right amount of chew.

Step 3: Add the egg and vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. These ingredients contribute moisture and richness, ensuring the cookie bars stay soft and flavorful with a lovely aromatic finish.

Step 4: Incorporate the dry ingredients

Stir in the all-purpose flour, crushed graham crackers, salt, and baking soda just until the flour mixture vanishes. Overmixing here can make the bars tough, so be gentle and stop as soon as the dough holds together while still looking soft and slightly crumbly.

Step 5: Form the layers

Press half of the cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Then, carefully remove the parchment-lined dough from the pan and pop it into the freezer for a bit, which will help it firm up. Meanwhile, re-line the pan with fresh parchment paper and press the remaining dough evenly over the bottom again.

Step 6: Add the chocolate and marshmallow layers

Place the five Hershey bars broken into pieces evenly over the freshly pressed cookie dough. Spread the marshmallow fluff evenly across the chocolate, creating a sticky, sweet layer that’s every bit as dreamy as traditional s’mores. Finally, take the chilled layer of cookie dough from the freezer and gently flip it on top, taking care not to tear it.

Step 7: Bake to perfection

Bake these bars in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Allow them to cool fully before slicing—this wait is worth it because it lets all the layers set beautifully, giving you those perfect cross sections of chocolate, marshmallow, and cookie.

How to Serve The Best s’mores cookie bars

Garnishes

To amp up the presentation and flavor, dust the cookie bars lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate over the top. You can also sprinkle a few extra crushed graham crackers or mini marshmallows right before serving for added texture and whimsy.

Side Dishes

These cookie bars pair wonderfully with classic companions like a tall glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of hot chocolate, bringing out the warmth and gooey richness of the s’mores flavors. For a grown-up twist, try serving alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these bars into a s’mores-inspired dessert platter by adding fresh strawberries, bananas, or even a selection of nuts and chocolate chips on the side. You can also cut the bars into bite-sized squares and serve on a festive tray for parties, making it easy to share The Best s’mores cookie bars with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their perfect chewy texture. Avoid refrigerating as this can dry them out.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature for a few hours to enjoy that signature melty marshmallow goodness.

Reheating

Warm the bars gently in a microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked, gooey feeling. Just be careful not to overheat and dry them out.

FAQs

Can I use different chocolate instead of Hershey bars?

Absolutely! While classic Hershey bars lend the traditional s’mores flavor, feel free to experiment with milk, dark, or even white chocolate bars to customize the taste.

Is marshmallow fluff the same as toasted marshmallows?

Marshmallow fluff is a creamy, spreadable version of marshmallows and offers the same sweet flavor without the need to toast. It’s perfect for keeping this recipe easy and mess-free.

Can I make these gluten-free?

To make The Best s’mores cookie bars gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour and graham crackers with certified gluten-free versions. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious!

How thick should I press the cookie dough layers?

Press each dough half evenly to cover the pan, roughly about 1/2 inch thick. Keeping an even layer helps everything bake uniformly and creates that perfect chewy bite.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Yes! Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch and pairs beautifully with the sweet and gooey layers—just fold them into the dough before pressing.

Final Thoughts

If you have a soft spot for classic campfire treats but want an easy, homemade twist, you absolutely need to try The Best s’mores cookie bars. They bring together everything you love about s’mores in a chewy, portable bar that’s perfect for sharing or savoring on your own. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite to make again and again.

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