Name: Gooey S’mores Cookie Bars for Your Sweet Tooth Cravings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup Butter (Softened); 0.5 cup Brown Sugar; 0.25 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 large Egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1 cup Graham Crackers (Finely crushed); 0.5 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 pinch Salt; 2 bars Hershey's Bars (Broken into pieces); 1 cup Marshmallow Fluff

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As I shuffled through my pantry, I stumbled upon a half-empty box of graham crackers longing to be transformed into something magical. That’s when I decided to whip up my favorite treat: gooey S’mores Cookie Bars! Combining the nostalgic flavors of a classic summer campfire favorite, these bars are a delightful blend of soft graham cracker dough, rich marshmallow fluff, and chocolatey Hershey’s goodness. The best part? They’re exceptionally quick to prepare, taking only 35 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for impromptu gatherings or a cozy night in. With their indulgently gooey texture and comforting sweetness, these S’mores Cookie Bars are bound to become your new go-to dessert. Curious about how to bring this sweet dream to life? Let’s dive in!

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Why Are S’mores Cookie Bars So Irresistible?

Gooey, decadent goodness: These S’mores Cookie Bars combine the best of both worlds with rich chocolate, creamy marshmallow fluff, and a buttery graham cracker base. Quick and effortless: With only 35 minutes of prep time, this recipe allows you to satisfy your cravings without any fuss. Crowd-pleaser dessert: Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy nights in, everyone will be asking for seconds! Want to elevate your dessert game even more? Try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an irresistible treat. Don’t stop here; check out our delightful Sugar Cookie Truffles for another sweet inspiration!

S’mores Cookie Bars Ingredients

For the Base
• Butter – Provides richness and moisture; feel free to use salted or unsalted.
• Brown Sugar – Enhances moisture and adds depth of flavor for that perfect base.
• Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and texture to balance out the flavors.
• Egg – Binds the mixture together; essential for a tender and chewy bar.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor, making these S’mores Cookie Bars irresistible.

For the Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structure component; essential for a well-balanced texture.
• Graham Crackers – Finely crushed to provide that classic s’mores flavor; swap with gluten-free wafers for a gluten-free option.
• Salt – A pinch helps to balance the sweetness, enhancing all other flavors.
• Baking Soda – Ensures the dough rises slightly, giving a soft, chewy texture.

For the Filling
• Hershey’s Bars – The star of the show for a gooey chocolate center; can substitute with other chocolate bars or chips if desired.
• Marshmallow Fluff – Key for achieving that quintessential s’mores consistency; avoid mini marshmallows for best results.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S’mores Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, take an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overlap for easy removal later. This will help ensure that your gooey S’mores Cookie Bars come out perfectly without sticking to the sides.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The sugars should be well incorporated, creating a light color and creamy texture, which is essential for a moist base in your S’mores cookie bars.

Step 3: Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla
Add in one large egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract to your buttery mixture. Beat well until fully combined, about 1 minute. This will help bind the ingredients together and infuse your dough with rich flavors, paving the way for the delicious chewy texture of your S’mores cookie bars.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of finely crushed graham crackers, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. Stir until just combined to keep your S’mores cookie bars delightfully soft and chewy, ensuring no overmixing.

Step 5: Layer the Dough in the Pan
Divide the dough in half and press one half evenly into the bottom of your lined baking pan. Use your fingers or a spatula to create an even layer, forming a solid base that will support the gooey layers above. This step is crucial for structuring your S’mores cookie bars.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Layers
Next, lay pieces of Hershey’s chocolate bars evenly over the pressed dough, ensuring good coverage. Once the chocolate layer is in place, spread a generous layer of marshmallow fluff on top. This combination of chocolate and fluffy goodness will create that iconic S’mores filling everyone loves.

Step 7: Top with Remaining Dough
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the marshmallow fluff, gently spreading it to cover completely. This doesn’t have to be perfect; little gaps will allow the fluff to peek through, adding to the charm of your S’mores cookie bars. Just be cautious to ensure the filling is mostly enclosed.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges; they should be set and golden brown while the center remains soft and slightly gooey. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares for serving.

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Make Ahead Options

These S’mores Cookie Bars are perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be made ahead! You can prepare the dough and layer it in the baking pan up to 24 hours in advance—simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you’re really pinched for time, you can mix the dough and refrigerate it as well. When you’re ready to bake, just take it out, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then pop it in the oven as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same gooey texture and rich flavor, making your dessert prep seamless and stress-free!

S’mores Cookie Bars Variations

Invite your creativity to shine as you customize these delightful bars to match your taste!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or ground oats instead to maintain that classic flavor without the gluten.
Nutty Delight: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a crunch that complements the gooeyness beautifully. The added texture will elevate your bars, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Chocolate Lovers: Switch out Hershey’s bars for dark chocolate or milk chocolate alternatives, or even try caramel-filled chocolate bars for a unique twist.
S’mores with a Twist: Infuse your batter with cinnamon or even espresso powder to add a flavorful depth, making these bars an exciting treat that awakens the palate.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter and coconut cream in place of marshmallow fluff for a rich and creamy filling. You won’t even miss the dairy!
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce between the layers before baking for a fantastic gooey caramel surprise that will leave everyone wanting more.
Mini Marshmallows: If you have mini marshmallows, fold them into the dough before layering for a burst of sweetness throughout. Ensure they’re well-distributed for that delightful chewy experience.
Bring the Heat: Spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeño for a surprising kick that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness.

As you explore these ideas, you might also want to check out our indulgent Vanilla Cheesecake Bars and consider adding them to your dessert repertoire!

What to Serve with S’mores Cookie Bars

Indulge in a delightful meal that elevates the gooey sweetness of these S’mores Cookie Bars into a full-fledged dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream acts as a cool contrast to the warm, gooey bars, enhancing the sweet flavors.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A rich drizzle of chocolate sauce will intensify the chocolate experience, making every bite even more decadent.
Fresh Strawberries: The juicy tartness of fresh strawberries offers a refreshing balance to the sweetness and richness of the bars.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a delicate touch, making your dessert feel elegant and indulgent.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel introduces a new layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate and marshmallow.
Coffee: A hot cup of coffee complements the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavors, perfect for a cozy evening.
Milk: A classic pairing, an ice-cold glass of milk helps cut through the sweetness and is perfect for dipping bites.
Coconut Macaroons: For a different texture, these chewy treats bring a delightful coconut flair alongside the S’mores Cookie Bars.
Nutty Granola: A handful of nutty granola adds crunch and depth, making for a fun, textural contrast when served with a bar.

Expert Tips for S’mores Cookie Bars

Cooling Time Matters: Let the bars cool completely before slicing. This helps achieve a clean, beautiful cross-section that showcases those delicious gooey layers.
Avoid Mini Marshmallows: Stick with marshmallow fluff rather than mini marshmallows. The fluff melts better and creates that signature gooey texture that makes these S’mores cookie bars so irresistible.
Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes lifting the bars out seamless for easy slicing.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dough, mix only until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookie bars; we want that soft, chewy charm!
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to switch up the Hershey’s chocolate bars with flavored alternatives or even add nuts for extra texture. The flexibility in this recipe means endless delicious variations!

Storage Tips for S’mores Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Keep your S’mores cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This ensures they remain soft and chewy, ready to satisfy those sweet cravings.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in a sealed container, as they may dry out otherwise.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: To enjoy, simply remove from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, so they regain their delightful gooey texture.

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S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of graham crackers should I use for S’mores Cookie Bars?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using regular graham crackers that are finely crushed. They provide that classic s’mores flavor. If you need a gluten-free alternative, you can substitute them with gluten-free wafers, which will still give a pleasant taste but be mindful of their texture differences.

How should I store my S’mores Cookie Bars?
Store your S’mores cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, though I’d suggest consuming them sooner to enjoy their gooey texture.

Can I freeze S’mores Cookie Bars, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze your S’mores cookie bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes to restore their delightful gooeyness.

What can I do if my S’mores Cookie Bars are too crumbly?
If your S’mores cookie bars turn out crumbly, it might be due to using too much flour or not enough fat. Ensure accurate measurements and use a kitchen scale if possible. If they are already made, try warming them slightly in the microwave before serving; this can help them stick together better.

Are S’mores Cookie Bars safe for dogs?
No, S’mores cookie bars are not safe for dogs. They contain ingredients like chocolate, which is toxic to dogs, and sugars that don’t sit well with their digestion. Always keep them away from your furry friends and stick to dog-friendly treats for them!

Can I customize the chocolate in my S’mores Cookie Bars?
Yes, indeed! You can experiment with different types of chocolate bars, such as caramel or almond-flavored varieties, to add a unique twist to your S’mores cookie bars. Mixing in chocolate chips or other sweets can also provide an exciting texture and flavor combination. Enjoy the creative process!