Easy S'mores Cookie Bars: Irresistible, Chewy Delight

The aroma of warm cookies baking fills the air, transporting me back to lazy summer nights spent by the campfire. Those sweet memories inspired these Easy S'mores Cookie Bars, where you'll find a scrumptious chewy cookie base, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate all in one delightful package. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy choice for families craving a homemade treat. Not only are they customizable to fit your family's tastes, but they also offer a gluten-free option for those needing it. So, why not take a trip down memory lane and whip up a batch? What flavor combinations will you try in your bars?

Why Are S'mores Cookie Bars a Must-Try?

Nostalgic flavors come rushing back with every bite, evoking memories of cozy campfire moments. Quick preparation ensures you can whip these up in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy families. Customizable ingredients let you experiment, so feel free to swap in your favorite chocolate or add nuts. Plus, a gluten-free option makes these bars accessible to everyone. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed as is, these S'mores Cookie Bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Try them alongside other delicious treats like Eggnog Cookies Soft for added delight!

S'mores Cookie Bars Ingredients

• Customizable and family-friendly!

For the Cookie Base

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor; replace with coconut sugar for a unique twist.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and balances flavor; using only brown sugar can yield denser bars.
Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds structure; flaxseed meal mixed with water can serve as an egg substitute.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; use vanilla bean paste for a more intense taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can be substituted with a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free S’mores Cookie Bars.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps the bars rise.
Salt – Elevates sweetness; omit if using salted butter.

For the Flavorful Fillings

Graham Cracker Crumbs – Essential for classic S'mores flavor; use gluten-free graham crackers to maintain a gluten-free recipe.
Chocolate Chips – Adds rich chocolate flavor; swap for dark or white chocolate for different tastes.
Mini Marshmallows – Creates gooey pockets within the bars; use flavored marshmallows or larger ones cut down.

For the Optional Toppings

Extra Chocolate Chips – Optional topping for additional richness.
Extra Marshmallows – Optional topping for enhanced gooeyness.

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures the S'mores Cookie Bars will easily release from the pan after baking, allowing for perfectly shaped squares.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy, creating a wonderful base for your S'mores Cookie Bars. The sugars will dissolve and incorporate air, resulting in a tender texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Once your butter and sugars are creamed together, add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, blending everything until combined. This step adds richness and enhances the overall flavor profile, making your bars even more delicious.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser S'mores Cookie Bars. The dough should hold together nicely but still be soft.

Step 5: Fold in Flavorful Mix-ins
Now it's time to add the fun! Carefully fold in the graham cracker crumbs and chocolate chips into the cookie dough. These ingredients provide the classic S'mores flavor you're craving, while the chocolate adds rich, melty pockets throughout the bars. Stir until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Layer the Dough in the Pan
Spread half of the cookie dough evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Press it down gently to form a solid base. Next, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top, creating a gooey layer before adding the remaining cookie dough. Use your hands to cover the marshmallows with the dough.

Step 7: Add Extra Toppings
For an indulgent finish, sprinkle extra chocolate chips and mini marshmallows over the top of the final layer of dough. This step not only enhances the flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation when you cut into your S'mores Cookie Bars after baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake your S'mores Cookie Bars for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end; they should be golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out slightly moist but not with wet batter.

Step 9: Cool and Slice
After baking, allow your S'mores Cookie Bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice them into squares. The bars should be chewy and filled with marshmallow and chocolate goodness, ready to be shared with family!

Expert Tips for S'mores Cookie Bars

Soften Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for the best texture. Cold butter can lead to uneven mixing and dense bars.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined to keep the cookie bars chewy and soft. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make them tougher.
Watch the Time: Set a timer for baking; start checking the S'mores Cookie Bars at 25 minutes. Overbaking can lead to dryness, losing that gooey texture.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap chocolate types or add nuts, but remember that more mix-ins may need slight adjustments in cooking time.
Storage Essentials: Keep bars in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer shelf life, consider freezing them wrapped individually.

What to Serve with Easy S'mores Cookie Bars

Pair your delightful cookie bars with complementary flavors and textures that elevate this cozy dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cold, it balances the warmth of the S'mores Cookie Bars, creating a classic dessert duo.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a bright, tart contrast to the sweet bars, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce on top adds indulgence and makes each bite even more decadent.
Caramel Sauce: The sweetness of caramel beautifully melds with the chocolate, offering a luxurious finish alongside the bars.
Nutty Granola: Serve with a side of crunchy nutty granola for an exciting texture twist, making every bite uniquely delightful.
Mint Tea: A refreshing cup of mint tea cleanses the palate and provides a pleasant herbal contrast to the sugary bars.
Coconut Flavored Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this adds a tropical flair that pairs wonderfully with the familiar S'mores flavors.
Milk: Classic and refreshing, a cold glass of milk is perfect to wash down the sweetness while enhancing the nostalgic vibe of your treat.

S'mores Cookie Bars Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful S'mores Cookie Bars!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a wholesome twist, allowing everyone to join in the fun. Dairy-free options can still yield a rich and buttery flavor that won’t disappoint!
Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free graham crackers. You'll enjoy the same classic S'mores taste without the gluten, making it perfect for your gluten-sensitive friends.
Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the dough. Their crunch adds a delightful texture to the soft and chewy bars, elevating the flavor profile even more.
Chocolate Double Trouble: Replace chocolate chips with a combination of dark chocolate and white chocolate chips. This variation gives your bars an extra layer of richness and a fun contrast in flavor.
Marshmallow Flavors: Try using flavored marshmallows, like strawberry or caramel, to amplify the sweetness and create a fun twist on the traditional S'mores flavor. Each bite can offer an exciting surprise!
Peppermint Infusion: Add peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing minty twist. This variant is especially delightful around the holidays, making your S'mores Cookie Bars festive!
Peanut Butter Lovers: Swirl in creamy or crunchy peanut butter into the batter before baking to create a delicious peanut butter cup effect. The combination of chocolate, graham, and peanut butter is simply irresistible!

For more sweet treats, consider baking some Peaches Cream Cookies for a fruity delight or a traditional batch of Mexican Wedding Cookies to please the crowd!

How to Store and Freeze S'mores Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Store your S'mores Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture and freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, you can refrigerate the bars, but be warned that they may become slightly firmer; enjoy within a week for the best flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They'll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm bars, simply microwave frozen or refrigerated portions for about 15-20 seconds, and relish that gooey goodness once more!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy S'mores Cookie Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough (steps 1-5) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the prepared dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to keep it fresh. Also, feel free to layer the dough with marshmallows and chocolate chips in the pan up to 3 days ahead; just keep it covered and refrigerated. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to maintain the cookie's texture, then pop it in the oven as directed in step 8. You'll have a warm, gooey treat that tastes just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of chocolate is best for S'mores Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! You can use any type of chocolate you love! Semi-sweet chocolate chips are the classic choice, but feel free to get creative with dark or white chocolate chips for a unique flavor twist. Just remember that different chocolates can affect the overall sweetness, so taste as you go!

How should I store S'mores Cookie Bars?
To keep your S'mores Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This preserves their chewy texture beautifully. If you think they won't be eaten within that time, you can refrigerate them for a week, but they may become firmer.

Can I freeze S'mores Cookie Bars?
Yes, you can wonderfully extend their shelf life! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply microwave the frozen bars for about 15-20 seconds to regain that gooey goodness!

How do I know when my S'mores Cookie Bars are done baking?
Great question! You want to look for a golden brown top. Start checking around the 25-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out slightly moist but not with wet batter. If it’s too sticky, give it a few more minutes, but don’t forget to keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!

Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free graham crackers. Additionally, you can replace the eggs with a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) to make it vegan-friendly. These swaps can still yield delicious results!

What if my bars turn out too dry?
If you find your S'mores Cookie Bars are dry, it may have been overbaked or the ingredients weren't properly measured. For next time, ensure you're using room temperature butter and avoid overmixing the dough. If you're concerned during baking, err on the side of underbaking slightly, as the bars will continue to cook while cooling!