Name: S'mores Cookie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 cups mini marshmallows; 1 ½ cups milk chocolate chips; ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

Golden, gooey, and gloriously chocolatey, S’mores Cookie Bars are the ultimate nostalgic treat reimagined in bar form. Imagine layers of graham cracker cookie dough sandwiching a molten river of marshmallows and melted chocolate chips, all baked to crispy-edged perfection. These bars are the ideal dessert when you crave the flavor of a campfire classic without needing an open flame.

Perfect for parties, holidays, bake sales, or cozy nights in, these bars are not only crowd-pleasers but surprisingly simple to make. No sticky fingers from holding skewers over a fire, just a warm oven and a few pantry staples to create something that tastes like summer in every bite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make perfect S’mores Cookie Bars, you don’t need fancy equipment, but having the right essentials makes a world of difference:

Mixing Bowls (Medium & Large): These are key for prepping the graham cracker cookie dough and combining your ingredients evenly.
Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: A hand mixer works well, but a stand mixer helps cream the butter and sugar to that perfect fluffy consistency for a more tender cookie base.
9×13 Baking Pan: The standard size ensures an even thickness for your bars. Use a metal pan for crisper edges or glass for more even heat distribution.

Parchment Paper: Makes lifting and cutting the bars easier and prevents sticking.
Rubber Spatula: Crucial for spreading dough evenly and scraping every last bit of melted chocolate.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy is everything in baking, especially when dealing with butter, flour, and sugar ratios.

Graham Cracker Crumbs: The base of our cookie dough, adding that signature flavor and texture of s’mores.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the bars and balances the chewiness with crisp edges.
Baking Soda: Helps the cookie dough rise just enough without puffing too much.

Salt: Enhances all the sweet elements with a slight contrast.
Unsalted Butter: Creamed with sugar for a rich, tender base.
Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar: Both are used to bring a chewy texture and caramelized depth.

Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, aromatic depth to the dough.
Eggs: For binding the ingredients and giving the bars structure.
Mini Marshmallows: The gooey, classic element that defines a s’more.

Milk Chocolate Chips: Melt into the center layer for that unmistakable rich chocolate flavor.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (optional): A slight bittersweet contrast if you prefer depth.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough Base

Whisk together graham cracker crumbs, flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. In a separate large bowl, cream butter and both sugars until fluffy, then beat in vanilla and eggs one at a time.

Step 2: Combine and Divide

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until fully combined. Press two-thirds of the dough into a lined 9×13 pan, smoothing it into an even layer.

Step 3: Layer on the S’mores Goodness

Evenly sprinkle marshmallows and chocolate chips over the dough layer. Dollop and gently spread the remaining dough on top. It’s okay if the marshmallows peek through!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and just set in the middle. Let cool before slicing for clean edges and gooey centers.

Serving & Storing These Bars

These bars are best served slightly warm when the chocolate and marshmallows are still delightfully gooey. Cut them into squares and enjoy with a glass of milk, or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert experience.

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that just-baked texture. You can also freeze them individually wrapped for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can, but making it from scratch gives better texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with the s’mores ingredients.

Can I use large marshmallows?

Mini marshmallows melt more evenly and distribute better. If using large ones, chop them up first.

Can I substitute dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate gives a richer taste and less sweetness if that’s your preference.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No chilling is needed for this recipe—just mix, layer, and bake!

What if I don’t have graham crackers?

You can substitute with digestive biscuits or even crushed vanilla wafers, but it will slightly change the flavor profile.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these S’mores Cookie Bars, you might enjoy these other Life With Olivia favorites:

Paula Deen’s 5-Minute Fudge for a rich, no-bake treat.

Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake for a tropical twist.
Apple Enchiladas that feel like pie in tortilla form.
Brownie Mix Cookies for the ultimate chocolate cookie shortcut.

Strawberry Crunch Pound Cake for nostalgic ice cream truck vibes.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast the marshmallows more? Try a drizzle of caramel? I love seeing your spins on these recipes. Ask questions, share tips, or just drop a yum!

S’mores Cookie Bars

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 16 bars

Print Recipe

Description

These S’mores Cookie Bars are a no-fuss, oven-baked version of the classic campfire treat. They combine layers of graham cracker cookie dough, melty chocolate, and gooey marshmallows into irresistible dessert bars. Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you’re craving something nostalgic and sweet.