Save A decadent, multi-layered dessert bar combining chocolate chip cookie dough, graham crackers, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate, inspired by classic campfire smores with a fun, chaotic twist.
I first made these for a backyard campfire party, and the gooey center with crispy edges was an instant hit. The playful layers always get everyone excited for dessert.
Ingredients
- Cookie Dough Layer: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 cups (340 g) semisweet chocolate chips
- Smores Layers: 8 full sheets graham crackers, 2 cups (100 g) mini marshmallows, 8 oz (225 g) milk chocolate bars, broken into pieces
- Topping: 1/2 cup (85 g) chocolate chips, 1/2 cup (25 g) mini marshmallows, 1 graham cracker, crushed
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Mix the Dough:
- Cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Finish Dough:
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet, mixing just until combined. Fold in semisweet chocolate chips.
- Layer & Assemble:
- Press half the dough into the pan. Layer graham crackers over dough. Sprinkle marshmallows and milk chocolate pieces evenly. Drop spoonfuls of remaining dough and gently spread to cover. Add additional chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham cracker on top.
- Bake & Serve:
- Bake 28 to 32 minutes until golden brown and set, center should be slightly gooey. Cool completely before lifting out and cutting into bars.
Save Making these with my kids turns into a joyful kitchen adventure and everyone's favorite step is sprinkling marshmallows before baking.
Required Tools
You'll need a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan, parchment paper, two mixing bowls, an electric mixer or whisk, a rubber spatula, and measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, eggs, milk, and soy. May contain nuts if using peanut butter cups or depending on chocolate brand. Always check ingredient labels for possible cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each bar has around 370 calories, 17 g total fat, 52 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.
Save Serve these chaos cake bars with cold milk or coffee for the ultimate treat. Enjoy the playful layers in every bite!
Recipe FAQ
- → What size pan works best for these bars?
A 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking pan gives optimal thickness and even baking for the layered bars.
- → Can I substitute dark chocolate for milk chocolate?
Yes, dark chocolate adds bolder flavor and less sweetness. Mix or swap as you prefer for your taste.
- → Is it possible to add nuts to the layers?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts or a layer of peanut butter cups add a crunchy or nutty twist to the bars.
- → How do I achieve extra gooey bars?
Serve the bars slightly warm after baking, or briefly microwave prior to serving for maximum gooeyness.
- → Can these dessert bars be made ahead?
Yes, store cooled bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer freshness.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these bars are vegetarian-friendly if all chocolate and marshmallow ingredients are gelatin-free.