I love this recipe because it combines everything I want in a dessert: chewy cookie layers, melted chocolate, and gooey marshmallows in every bite. I also enjoy how it captures the flavor of classic campfire s’mores but in a soft, easy-to-slice bar form that I can make any time of the year.
I like how simple it is to prepare in one pan, and I appreciate that it works well for sharing at gatherings, parties, or casual family desserts. I also enjoy the contrast of textures between the crispy top, soft center, and melted chocolate pockets.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 cup brown sugar, packed 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup graham cracker crumbs 1 cup chocolate chips 1 cup mini marshmallows Extra chocolate chips and marshmallows for topping (to taste)
Directions
I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing a 9×13 inch baking pan with grease or parchment paper.
I cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
I beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then I stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt to distribute everything evenly.
I gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined so I avoid overworking the dough.
I fold in the graham cracker crumbs and chocolate chips until they are evenly spread throughout the dough.
I press half of the dough into the prepared pan to form the base layer.
I sprinkle mini marshmallows over the base, then I add the remaining cookie dough on top and gently spread it to cover the marshmallows.
I finish by adding extra chocolate chips and marshmallows on top for a more indulgent finish.
I bake everything for 25–30 minutes, until the top turns golden and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
I let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then I lift them out and allow them to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Servings and timing
I get about 12 servings from this recipe.
I spend around 15 minutes preparing the dough and assembling everything, and I bake it for 25–30 minutes. The total time comes to about 45 minutes, plus cooling time before slicing.
storage/reheating
I store these cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I want them to last longer, I refrigerate them for up to a week.
When I reheat them, I warm a piece in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds to bring back the gooey chocolate and soft marshmallow texture. I also like to warm them slightly in the oven for a few minutes if I want a freshly baked feel.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate in this recipe?
Yes, I like using milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even chopped chocolate bars depending on how rich I want the flavor.
Do I need to toast the marshmallows first?
No, I do not toast them beforehand. They melt and toast naturally while baking in the oven.
Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?
Yes, I often make them a day ahead because they hold their texture well after resting.
Why are my cookie bars too hard?
This usually happens when I overbake them or overmix the dough, so I keep a close eye on baking time.
Can I freeze S’mores Cookie Bars?
Yes, I freeze them in an airtight container and thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
I love making these S’mores Cookie Bars because they bring together classic flavors in a simple, shareable dessert. I enjoy how easy they are to prepare and how satisfying they are with every bite, making them one of my go-to sweet treats for any occasion.
The best s’mores cookie bars recipe packed with chocolate, marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs for an easy gooey dessert everyone will love.
Author:Ella
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:12 servings
Category:Dessert / Bars
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American / Dessert
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup mini marshmallows
Extra chocolate chips and marshmallows, for topping
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line or grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Fold in graham cracker crumbs and chocolate chips.
Press half of the dough evenly into the baking pan.
Sprinkle mini marshmallows over the layer.
Spread remaining dough over marshmallows, covering as best as possible.
Top with extra chocolate chips and marshmallows.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and set.
Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Slight underbaking keeps the bars extra gooey.
Let bars cool fully before cutting for clean slices.
Add a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty balance.
Store in an airtight container to keep them soft.