Smores Cookie Bars + Easy Recipe (No Campfire Needed)

Name: Smores Cookie Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 7-8 graham crackers, full sheets/unbroken rectangles; 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature; ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar; ¾ cup (150g) light brown sugar, gently packed; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour; ¾ tsp salt; ¾ tsp baking soda; ½ cup (135g) semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup (45g) mini marshmallows; 2 regular-sized Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars, broken into squares

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Smores Cookie Bars are a delicious, ooey-gooey treat that perfectly captures the essence of a classic smores dessert without the mess of a campfire. Combining layers of graham crackers, cookie dough, marshmallows, and melted chocolate, this dessert offers all the flavors of traditional smores in an easy-to-make bar form. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a sweet treat for a special occasion or enjoy a family-friendly dessert, these smores cookie bars are sure to impress.

Smores Cookie Bars are the ideal dessert for any occasion. Not only are they a delicious combination of gooey marshmallows and melted chocolate, but they also offer the ease of baking in a single pan. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a casual weekend treat, these bars are a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike. Their texture is a perfect blend of crunchy graham crackers at the base, soft cookie dough in the middle, and a melty chocolate topping. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make—no campfire required!

Here’s a list of all the ingredients you’ll need to make your smores cookie bars:

• Graham crackers: Provide a crunchy and sturdy base for the bars, mimicking the traditional smores crust.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the dough together.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookie dough.
• Light brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like flavor to the dough.
• Eggs: Essential for binding the dough and giving the bars structure.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cookie dough.
• All-purpose flour: The main dry ingredient that forms the bulk of the dough.
• Baking soda: Helps the dough rise slightly for a soft and chewy texture.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Provides chunks of melty chocolate throughout the bars.
• Mini marshmallows: Adds that signature gooey, sticky marshmallow texture in every bite.
• Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars: Broken into pieces and placed on top, these bars melt into a rich chocolate layer.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Graham crackers: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers or any other suitable gluten-free cookie base.
• Butter: Swap for a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
• Mini marshmallows: You can use regular-sized marshmallows if that’s all you have on hand—just chop them up into smaller pieces before adding them.
• Chocolate chips: Use dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring it overhangs on the sides for easy lifting after baking.
Layer the graham crackers: Arrange the graham crackers in a single layer, covering the bottom of the pan. Break them into pieces as needed to fit perfectly.
Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs and vanilla: Mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Add chocolate chips and marshmallows: Stir in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows.

Assemble the cookie bars: Spread the dough evenly over the graham cracker layer, pressing it flat. If desired, top with additional mini marshmallows.
Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they are done.
Top with chocolate: Once out of the oven, place the broken Hershey’s chocolate bar pieces on top of the hot bars, allowing them to melt.

Cool and slice: Let the bars cool for 20-30 minutes before lifting them out of the pan and cutting them into squares.

• For gooey bars: These smores cookie bars are best enjoyed warm, as the chocolate and marshmallows will still be soft and melty.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid dry bars. A slightly underbaked center will give you that perfect gooey texture.
• Use parchment paper: It makes lifting the bars out of the pan much easier and prevents sticking.
• Store properly: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature. For firmer chocolate, refrigerate them, but they’ll be soft at room temperature.
• Check your pan: Use a metal pan for more even baking. Glass pans may require a slightly longer baking time.

Delicious Pairing Ideas and Variations

Smores Cookie Bars are versatile and can be paired with various treats and toppings. Try these ideas for an extra special twist:

• Ice cream: Serve your smores cookie bars with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side for an indulgent dessert.
• Fruit: Add fresh strawberries or raspberries for a tart contrast to the sweet, gooey bars.
• Nutty twist: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy surprise inside the bars.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers and a suitable flour blend to make these bars gluten-free without compromising taste.

Health Benefits and Seasonal Appeal

While smores cookie bars are primarily a decadent treat, they also offer some nostalgia and seasonal charm. Perfect for summer picnics or cozy winter nights, they bring the warmth and fun of campfire smores to any occasion. You can also make them ahead of time and store them for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead dessert for any gathering.

Whether you’re celebrating summer with friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these smores cookie bars are the perfect treat to share. They combine the best elements of a classic smores dessert with the convenience of a cookie bar, making them an irresistible option for your next baking adventure.

Smores Cookie Bars offer all the fun and flavor of classic smores without the mess, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a family get-together or looking for an easy dessert to bake, these bars deliver delicious, gooey layers of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers. With just the right balance of textures, from the crunchy graham crackers to the soft cookie dough and melted chocolate topping, it’s no wonder this dessert has become a crowd favorite. So, preheat your oven and indulge in this delightful, no-campfire-required version of a timeless treat!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of chocolate for these Smores Cookie Bars?

Yes! While the recipe calls for Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars, you can swap them out with any type of chocolate you prefer, such as dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter cups. Just make sure to chop the chocolate into small pieces so it melts evenly over the bars.

How do I store Smores Cookie Bars to keep them fresh?

To store your Smores Cookie Bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer firmer chocolate, you can store them in the refrigerator, but the bars will be slightly softer at room temperature.

Can I make these Smores Cookie Bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make these cookie bars gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the chocolate chips and other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze Smores Cookie Bars for later?

Absolutely! To freeze your Smores Cookie Bars, first allow them to cool completely. Then, cut the bars into squares and place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that gooey texture.

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