S’mores Cookie Bars

Save this recipe on:

I’ve baked countless treats over the years, but nothing transports me back to summer nights and cozy campfires quite like these S’mores Cookie Bars. Imagine the nostalgic flavor of classic s’mores — gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and buttery graham crackers — all transformed into a thick, chewy bar you can enjoy year-round. The first time I made them, I knew I had hit dessert gold. They’re just the right balance of crispy edges and a soft, melty center.

What really won me over was how foolproof they are. You don’t need a firepit or skewers, and you certainly won’t miss the mess. Instead, you get thick cookie layers sandwiched with chocolate and gooey marshmallow cream, baked to golden perfection. And the top? Studded with more chocolate and mini marshmallows for that toasty, irresistible finish.

Whether I’m bringing them to a family get-together or just baking for fun, these bars never last long. One bite and people are always asking for the recipe. And I have to say, they look as good as they taste — a true showstopper on the dessert table.

If you enjoy dessert bars like my Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake or crave gooey treats like the Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars, these S’mores Cookie Bars are bound to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe

These bars are the ultimate comfort dessert. You’ll love the way the soft, chewy cookie dough wraps around layers of melted chocolate and creamy marshmallow. They’re easy to make, a joy to serve, and perfect for everything from potlucks to school bake sales. Plus, they pack and store beautifully, which makes them an ideal make-ahead treat for busy weeks or holiday trays.

Ingredients

Unsalted Butter: Essential for a rich, smooth cookie base that holds everything together.

Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar: This mix gives the cookie dough that deep caramel-like flavor and perfect chewiness.

Eggs: They provide structure and moisture for a tender bar that doesn’t crumble apart.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the warm, sweet flavors in the dough.

All-Purpose Flour: The base that forms the soft, sturdy cookie layers.

Baking Soda and Salt: These give the dough the right lift and balance the sweetness.

Graham Cracker Crumbs: They bring the essential “s’mores” flavor and a touch of texture.

Chocolate Chips and Chocolate Squares: Melty, rich, and absolutely necessary to channel that true s’mores feel.

Marshmallow Creme and Mini Marshmallows: One gives that creamy, gooey center, while the other toasts up beautifully on top.

How to Make S’mores Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough Base

Start by creaming together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract, then gradually add in the flour, baking soda, salt, and graham cracker crumbs until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Layer the Bottom

Press half of the cookie dough into a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure it’s even all the way to the edges. This is the base that will support all the gooey layers above.

Step 3: Add the Marshmallow and Chocolate

Spread the marshmallow creme over the bottom layer. Then evenly sprinkle chocolate chips and some of the chocolate squares on top. You want generous, even coverage so every bite hits the mark.

Step 4: Top and Decorate

Gently press the remaining cookie dough over the chocolate-marshmallow layer. It doesn’t have to be perfect—a few gaps are fine. Add mini marshmallows and extra chocolate chunks across the surface for a gorgeous, melty topping.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and just set. The marshmallows will be puffed and toasted, and the edges will be irresistibly crispy.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool in the pan to firm up. Once fully cooled, slice into squares or rectangles. Serve them up or store for later—they’re just as good the next day!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re looking to shake things up, these bars welcome creativity. Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate to adjust the richness to your liking. Craving crunch? Try adding chopped nuts or crushed pretzels for a salty contrast. For a fun twist, substitute chocolate graham crackers or use a peanut butter cookie base for a flavor-packed variation.

You can also use large marshmallows instead of mini ones—just chop them into smaller pieces. And if marshmallow creme isn’t on hand, a layer of regular marshmallows will melt nicely in the oven too.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

S’mores Cookie Bars are a dream all on their own, but they shine even brighter with the right pairings. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a sundae-style dessert. They’re also amazing with a tall glass of cold milk or a cozy cup of hot cocoa.

Hosting a dessert spread? Pair these bars with treats like Irresistible Funnel Cake Bites or Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies for a snack table everyone will rave about.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store, place the cooled bars in an airtight container. They’ll keep well at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer then transfer to a freezer bag—they’ll stay fresh for about 2 months.

To reheat, pop a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive that gooey chocolate-marshmallow magic.

FAQs

How do I prevent the S’mores Cookie Bars from sticking to the pan?

Use parchment paper to line your baking dish. It makes for easy removal and keeps your bars perfectly intact.

Can I use homemade cookie dough for the S’mores Cookie Bars?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade cookie dough, feel free to use it. Just be sure it’s thick enough to hold the layers together.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking S’mores Cookie Bars?

No need! This dough is ready to bake as soon as it’s mixed. That’s one reason these bars are such a great last-minute dessert.

Can I double the recipe for a party?

Yes! Simply double the ingredient quantities and bake in a larger sheet pan. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on the top for that golden-brown cue.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If these cookie bars made your sweet tooth sing, don’t miss the indulgent Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars or the festive Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies. Both are perfect for gifting, sharing, or treating yourself.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If you’re loving this recipe, be sure to Pin it for later to your dessert board on Pinterest. Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family on social media — they’ll thank you! Snap a photo of your S’mores Cookie Bars and tag me so I can see your delicious creations. Happy baking!

Save this recipe on: