Bring the nostalgic flavors of campfire s’mores to your kitchen with these Ultimate S’mores Cookie Bars. Layers of buttery graham cracker crust, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate chunks combine to create a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. These bars are perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or any occasion where you want to enjoy the classic taste of s’mores without the campfire.
Why You'll Love This Dessert: S’mores Cookie Bars capture the essence of the classic s’mores treat but in a convenient, easy-to-make bar form. The combination of crunchy graham cracker crust, chewy cookie dough, and melty chocolate with marshmallows creates a delightful texture and flavor in every bite. This recipe is simple to follow and results in a crowd-pleasing dessert that both kids and adults will love.
Perfect Occasion: These bars are ideal for summer barbecues, picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings. They travel well and can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect addition to any outdoor event. Their sweet and gooey nature also makes them a great treat for a cozy movie night or a fun baking project with kids.
Decoration Tips: For a fun and festive presentation, you can drizzle some melted chocolate over the top of the cooled bars before serving. Adding a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers and a few extra mini marshmallows on top will enhance the s’mores look and flavor. Serving the bars on a rustic wooden board or a colorful platter can add to the summery feel.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (made from approximately 1 1/2 packages of graham crackers)
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups brown sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
For the Toppings:
- 1-2 Hershey chocolate bars, each section broken or cut in half
- 1 graham cracker, broken into pieces
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
- Prepare the Baking Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9"x13" baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving some paper hanging over the sides for easy removal after baking.
- Make the Crust:
- Crush the graham crackers to make crumbs. Combine the crumbs with 1/2 cup melted butter and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press it evenly into the bottom. Place the pan in the freezer while you make the cookie dough.
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, blend together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and 3/4 cup melted butter.
- Add the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Retrieve the baking pan from the freezer and spread the cookie dough over the graham cracker crust, using an offset spatula to distribute it evenly.
- Top the dough with the pieces of Hershey bars, broken graham crackers, and additional mini marshmallows, pressing them slightly into the dough.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and no wet batter is visible.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool fully in the pan (about 1 hour or more).
- Cut and Serve:
- Once the bars are completely cool, run a knife around the edges touching the pan, then use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab out.
- Place on a cutting board and cut into squares.
Enjoy! Indulge in the delicious combination of crunchy graham cracker crust, chewy cookie dough, and gooey marshmallow with these Ultimate S’mores Cookie Bars. Perfect for any summer occasion, these bars are sure to become a favorite treat. Enjoy every delightful bite!
