Irresistible S’mores Cookie Bars: A Simple, Delicious Recipe with a Homemade Twist

Mastering S’mores Bars

S’mores bars transform the classic campfire treat into an irresistibly easy-to-make dessert perfect for any kitchen. This recipe captures the nostalgic layers of crunchy graham crackers, gooey marshmallow creme, and melted semi-sweet chocolate chips, all baked into a chewy, delightful cookie bar. It’s accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, requiring basic pantry staples with a simple layering technique that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

These S’mores cookie bars are a crowd-pleaser that combine the familiar, comforting tastes of traditional s’mores with the convenience of a handheld bar. Ideal for family gatherings, bake sales, or casual dessert nights, they offer a playful way to enjoy a childhood favorite year-round without the need for a campfire.

Mastering these bars means having a go-to recipe that blends nostalgic flavors, irresistible textures, and fuss-free preparation for any occasion.

Benefits and Advantages of S’mores Bars

This S’mores bars recipe stands out for its ease of preparation, requiring no complicated techniques or specialized equipment. The use of marshmallow creme instead of traditional marshmallows provides a smoother texture that melts evenly, creating a perfectly gooey layer that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy base and rich chocolate chips.

The bars are highly customizable, allowing home cooks to experiment with different types of graham cracker crumbs or cereals, varying chocolate chips, and additional ingredients, all while maintaining simplicity. The single-pan baking method also means less cleanup, making it an attractive choice for busy families and novice bakers.

While rich and indulgent, the recipe balances its sweetness with wholesome ingredients like all-purpose flour and natural brown sugar, providing a satisfying treat that can be portioned easily. Additionally, the bars can be stored at room temperature or frozen, offering lasting convenience.

In essence, these bars bring the joyful flavor of traditional s\u2019mores to the kitchen table with minimal fuss and maximum enjoyment.

Essential Ingredients for S’mores Bars

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar: Adds moisture and a caramel-like depth of flavor.
• 1 large egg, at room temperature: Binds the dough and adds structure.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor and aroma.
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy base of the cookie bars.
• 1 cup (120g) graham cracker crumbs or Golden Grahams cereal: Provides the classic s’mores cracker flavor with a crispy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise slightly for a tender texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into rich, gooey pockets of chocolate.
• 1 heaping cup marshmallow creme: Creates the signature creamy marshmallow layer.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your S’mores Bars

Gluten-Free Options

If you want to make gluten-free s’mores bars, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. For the graham cracker crumbs, use gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cereals like gluten-free Golden Grahams, ensuring an authentic texture and taste without gluten.

Vegan and Dairy-Free Adaptations

Transform these bars into a vegan-friendly treat by replacing the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter alternatives. Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, left to thicken) instead of a regular egg to bind the dough. For the marshmallow layer, be sure to choose a vegan marshmallow creme or create a homemade version that uses agar or other plant-based gelling agents.

Sweetener Alternatives

Swap the brown sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup blends for a more natural sweetener alternative. These options provide caramel notes akin to brown sugar but with potentially improved nutritional properties.

Chocolate Variations

Experiment with different types of chocolate chips or chunks\u2014dark chocolate for a richer taste, white chocolate for sweetness contrast, or even peanut butter chips to add a savory twist. Each option offers a unique flavor profile while maintaining the spirit of classic s’mores.

Being thoughtful with these substitutions allows you to maintain flavor and texture while accommodating dietary preferences and ingredient availability. For more creative treat ideas, check out Butter Pecan Fudge, another delicious recipe featured on the blog.

How to Prepare the Perfect Smores Bars: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat and prepare pan: Set your oven to 350\u00b0F (177\u00b0C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat \u00bd cup (113g) unsalted butter and \u00be cup (150g) packed brown sugar on medium-high for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg and vanilla: Mix in 1 large room-temperature egg and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract until combined.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, 1 cup (120g) graham cracker crumbs or crushed Golden Grahams cereal, \u00bd teaspoon baking powder, and \u00bc teaspoon salt.
5. Mix dry and wet ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Form base layer: Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan to create a sturdy base layer.
7. Add marshmallow and chocolate: Spread 1 heaping cup of marshmallow creme evenly over the base layer. Then sprinkle 1 cup (180g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips uniformly on top.
8. Top with remaining dough: Flatten the remaining dough lightly by pressing pieces randomly across the marshmallow and chocolate layers. Some marshmallow and chocolate will peek through for a charming appearance.
9. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden brown.
10. Cool and cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper. Cut into even squares and serve.

The layers of buttery cookie, gooey marshmallow, and melty chocolate come together in these bars, making them a perfect treat with a nostalgic twist.

Mastering Smores Bars: Advanced Tips and Variations

Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor

• Use marshmallow creme instead of marshmallows for that unmatched gooey texture that evenly spreads through the bars.
• Grease your hands or use a spatula when handling the sticky dough to prevent it from clinging and to get a smooth surface.
• If you can’t find graham cracker crumbs, substitute with finely ground digestive biscuits for a similar flavor and texture.
• Press layers gently but firmly to avoid overly thick bars that may not bake evenly.
• For an appealing toasted effect, broil the bars briefly for 30 seconds to 1 minute after baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Flavor Variations

• Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate chunks for different richness and depth.
• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts between the layers for a crunchy contrast.
• Incorporate a swirl of peanut butter or caramel sauce into the dough before baking for a decadent twist.
• Try using flavored marshmallow creme such as chocolate or strawberry for a unique take on the classic taste.
• Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice in the dough during cooler months for seasonal warmth.

How to Store Smores Bars: Best Practices

Proper storage ensures that your smores bars remain fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Freezing: Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw bars at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm bars gently in the microwave (about 15 seconds) to enjoy melty chocolate and soft marshmallow texture, replicating freshly baked bars.

Cooling bars completely before storage helps in maintaining firm edges and neat slices.

Nutritional Value of Smores Bars

These bars combine sugar, butter, and chocolate for a treat that’s indulgent and rich. They make for a perfect occasional dessert, offering nostalgic flavors in a handy bar format.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Smores Bars

Irresistible S’mores Cookie Bars: A Simple, Delicious Recipe with a Homemade Twist

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• Total Time: 3 hours
• Yield: 16 bars 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

🍪 Relive the nostalgic campfire taste at home with these irresistible S’mores Cookie Bars, blending chocolate, marshmallow, and graham flavors in every bite!
🔥 This simple, deliciously gooey recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing guests with a homemade twist.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (120g) graham cracker crumbs or Golden Grahams cereal
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 heaping cup marshmallow creme

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract; beat until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
6. Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
7. Spread the marshmallow creme evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with chocolate chips.
8. Flatten small pieces of the remaining dough and dot them over the top; marshmallow and chocolate will peek through.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden brown.
10. Allow to cool completely in the pan before removing and cutting into squares for serving.

Notes

🔥 Marshmallow creme is key for achieving a smooth texture; regular marshmallows can be more sticky.
🍴 The dough’s stickiness is easily managed by using greased hands or utensils.
🌟 For added flavor and a toasted effect, consider briefly broiling the bars—just watch closely to avoid burning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooling Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: n/a
• Sugar: n/a
• Sodium: n/a
• Fat: n/a
• Saturated Fat: n/a
• Unsaturated Fat: n/a
• Trans Fat: n/a
• Carbohydrates: n/a
• Fiber: n/a
• Protein: n/a
• Cholesterol: n/a