S’mores cookies combine the classic flavors of s’mores—graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows—into one chewy, gooey dessert that can be enjoyed any time of year. No need to wait for a campfire! These cookies are easy to bake at home, delivering all the indulgence of traditional s’mores in a convenient handheld form. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply treating yourself, s’mores cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best s’mores cookie recipes, creative variations, and tips to get the perfect gooey center. Ready to get started? Let’s bake!
Why S’mores Cookies Are So Popular
S’mores cookies are beloved because they take all the things people love about traditional s’mores and package them into a convenient, portable treat. By incorporating crushed graham crackers into the dough, you get that same crunchy texture. Add melty chocolate chips and gooey marshmallows, and the result is a dessert that’s both nostalgic and satisfying.
If you’re interested in exploring more unique cookie recipes, you might want to try these Soft Pumpkin Cookies, which offer a fall-inspired twist.
Key Ingredients for S’mores Cookies
To make s’mores cookies that truly capture the essence of a campfire s’more, here’s what you’ll need:
1. Graham Crackers
The graham crackers in s’mores cookies provide both flavor and texture. Most recipes call for crushing the graham crackers and mixing them into the dough. Some variations even use graham cracker crumbs as a coating or topping.
2. Chocolate
For that classic s’mores flavor, you can use chocolate chips or chunks of Hershey’s chocolate. Milk chocolate gives you that iconic s’mores sweetness, but you can also try dark chocolate for a richer taste.
3. Marshmallows
Mini marshmallows are ideal for s’mores cookies because they melt perfectly into the dough. Some recipes call for adding whole marshmallows into the dough or even stuffing the cookies with marshmallow cream for extra gooeyness.
4. Butter and Brown Sugar
The combination of butter and brown sugar gives the cookies their chewy texture and rich flavor. Brown sugar also adds a subtle caramel-like note that complements the marshmallows and chocolate.
5. Eggs and Vanilla
The eggs provide structure and help the dough bind together, while vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the entire cookie.
6. Flour and Baking Soda
Flour and baking soda create the base of the dough and ensure that the cookies rise and hold their shape.
Classic S’mores Cookie Recipe
Here’s a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe for classic s’mores cookies that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings:
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (or chopped Hershey’s chocolate)
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, crushed graham crackers, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Add Chocolate and Marshmallows: Fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows.
- Form Cookies: Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the marshmallows are lightly toasted. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
These cookies are best enjoyed warm, while the chocolate is still melty and the marshmallows are gooey.
Creative Twists on S’mores Cookies
Looking to put a spin on the classic recipe? Here are some creative variations of s’mores cookies that will take your baking game to the next level.
1. S’mores Cookie Bars
For a fun twist, make s’mores cookie bars instead of individual cookies. Simply press the dough into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes. Once cooled, slice into bars and serve.
2. S’mores-Stuffed Cookies
For extra gooeyness, stuff your cookies with large marshmallows or a square of chocolate before baking. The result is a molten center that oozes with every bite.
3. Peanut Butter S’mores Cookies
Add a twist by incorporating peanut butter into the cookie dough. The rich, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the chocolate and marshmallows, creating a decadent treat that will impress any peanut butter lover.
4. Gluten-Free S’mores Cookies
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and graham crackers. The result is a cookie that’s just as tasty but suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Check out this Gluten-Free Baking Guide for tips on perfecting your gluten-free cookies.
Baking Tips for the Perfect S’mores Cookies
If you want to make sure your s’mores cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to follow:
- Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and stay soft in the center.
- Don’t overbake: S’mores cookies should be slightly underbaked to keep the marshmallows gooey and the centers soft. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overbaking.
- Use fresh marshmallows: Stale marshmallows won’t melt as well. For the best gooey texture, always use fresh mini marshmallows.
- Extra toppings: For an extra indulgent touch, press additional chocolate chips or marshmallows onto the top of each cookie just before baking.
For more helpful baking tips, visit Sally’s Baking Addiction, which offers expert advice on cookies, cakes, and everything in between.
Storing and Serving S’mores Cookies
S’mores cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also store them for later. Here’s how to store and reheat your cookies for maximum enjoyment:
- Storing: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To get that gooey, fresh-from-the-oven texture, reheat the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will remelt the chocolate and soften the marshmallows.
These cookies are perfect for sharing at parties, packing in lunchboxes, or enjoying as an after-dinner treat.
S’mores Cookie FAQs
Can I Make S’mores Cookies Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and bake as directed.
How Can I Make S’mores Cookies Without an Oven?
If you don’t have access to an oven, you can try making no-bake s’mores cookies. In this version, you mix crushed graham crackers, melted chocolate, and mini marshmallows, then form the mixture into cookie shapes and chill them in the refrigerator until firm.
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate?
Absolutely! While milk chocolate is traditional, you can experiment with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even caramel-filled chocolate for a unique twist on the classic s’mores flavor.