If the nostalgic taste of toasted marshmallows, creamy chocolate, and honeyed graham crackers stirs up memories of summer nights around a campfire, you’re not alone. S’mores are a classic American treat beloved by all ages. But what if you could capture that gooey, chocolatey goodness in a decadent, no-bake dessert? Enter: S’mores Cookie Dough Bars—a layered, chewy, and indulgent spin on the fireside favorite.
These bars combine everything we love about s’mores with the irresistible appeal of edible cookie dough. They’re rich, sweet, and utterly satisfying—no campfire needed. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun family treat, or just craving a unique dessert, S’mores Cookie Dough Bars are sure to impress.
The Modern Evolution of a Campfire Classic
S’mores (short for “some more”) date back to the 1920s, when they first appeared in a Girl Scouts publication. Traditionally made by sandwiching toasted marshmallows and chocolate between graham crackers, the treat has become a staple of cookouts and camping trips across the United States.
In recent years, s’mores-inspired desserts have exploded in popularity, from cupcakes to ice cream. S’mores Cookie Dough Bars take this trend to the next level by pairing the iconic trio of ingredients with layers of safe-to-eat cookie dough and rich chocolate ganache.
What Makes S’mores Cookie Dough Bars Special?
- No-Bake Recipe: No oven required—ideal for summer or quick prep days.
- Safe-to-Eat Dough: The cookie dough is made without eggs and with heat-treated flour, making it safe to enjoy raw.
- Multi-Layered Texture: Crunchy graham base, creamy cookie dough middle, and silky chocolate topping.
Ingredients
Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup brown sugar
Edible Cookie Dough Layer:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups heat-treated all-purpose flour
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Topping (optional):
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- Crushed graham crackers for garnish
- Drizzle of melted chocolate
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 1–2 hours
- Total Time: About 2.5 hours (with chilling)
- Yield: 16–20 bars
Instructions
1. Make the Graham Cracker Base
In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until the texture resembles wet sand. Press evenly into a parchment-lined 9×9-inch pan. Chill for 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, beat softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add milk and vanilla. Gradually mix in heat-treated flour (to kill bacteria) and stir in mini chocolate chips. Spread the dough evenly over the chilled crust.
3. Make the Chocolate Ganache
Heat the heavy cream in the microwave or on the stovetop until it just begins to simmer. Pour over chocolate chips and let sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth. Pour over the cookie dough layer and spread evenly.
4. Top and Chill
Sprinkle mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers over the ganache. For a toasted effect, use a kitchen torch on the marshmallows (optional). Chill in the fridge for at least 1–2 hours before slicing.
Presentation Tips
- Serve Cold or Room Temp: These bars are best served chilled for cleaner slices, but allow them to sit for 5–10 minutes at room temperature for a softer texture.
- Decorate: A drizzle of white or dark chocolate adds a professional touch. You can also cut them into fun shapes using cookie cutters for themed events.
- Gift-Worthy: Stack bars in parchment and tie with twine for a rustic, giftable treat.
Nutritional Information (Per Bar, based on 20 servings)
- Calories: ~280
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 90mg
These bars are rich and indulgent—perfect for when you want a small treat with big flavor.
Creative Variations
- Peanut Butter Twist: Add ½ cup of peanut butter to the cookie dough for a Reese’s-style version.
- S’mores Cheesecake Bars: Replace the cookie dough layer with a no-bake cheesecake filling.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers and almond flour instead of regular flour.
- Holiday Flair: Use holiday-colored chocolate chips or themed sprinkles for seasonal appeal.
Final Thoughts
S’mores Cookie Dough Bars are everything you love about traditional s’mores—plus the rich creaminess of cookie dough and the elegance of ganache. Best of all, they require no baking and can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for parties, picnics, or indulgent evenings at home.
This is a dessert that brings comfort and creativity together in one decadent bite. With every layer offering a new texture and taste, it’s no wonder these bars have become a go-to favorite for dessert lovers of all ages.
So, the next time you’re craving s’mores without the smoke and sticks, try whipping up a batch of S’mores Cookie Dough Bars. One bite, and you’ll be hooked.