There is something irresistibly nostalgic and indulgent about combining peanuts, chocolate, and marshmallows, and that’s exactly what makes this Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe a standout treat. Imagine the crunch of graham crackers paired with a soft, peanut butter cookie baked right on top, crowned with gooey marshmallows, melty chocolate pieces, and bursts of Reeses Pieces for that perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet. It’s a quick bake that turns a classic campfire dessert into an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing bar that everyone will rave about. Whether for a party, family gathering, or simply a cozy night in, these bars are pure joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of ingredients, each bringing a unique flair. From the sweet crunch of graham crackers to the creamy richness of peanut butter cookies and the melty goodness of chocolate and marshmallows, these ingredients work together to create something truly magical.
- Graham cracker squares: The crunchy base that gives the bars their classic s’mores texture and adds a toasty flavor.
- Reeses Ready To Bake Peanut Butter Cookies: These cookies add a rich, peanut buttery softness that pairs perfectly with the other toppings.
- Mini marshmallows: When baked, they become delightfully gooey, mimicking that campfire-roasted marshmallow taste we all love.
- Hershey Bar pieces: Classic milk chocolate chunks that melt and blend with the marshmallows for that perfect s’mores sweetness.
- Reeses Pieces: These add a burst of crunchy peanut butter candy, enhancing the flavor and adding a pop of color.
- Mini chocolate chips: Tiny pockets of melty chocolate that fill in each bite with extra decadence.
How to Make Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Graham Cracker Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Then, carefully break your graham crackers into squares (don’t leave them as rectangles) and arrange them evenly on the lined sheet. This crunchy foundation will hold all the delicious layers to come.
Step 2: Add the Peanut Butter Cookie Layer
Next, place one unbaked Reeses Ready To Bake Peanut Butter Cookie on each graham cracker square. Gently flatten each cookie just a little to help it bake evenly and meld with the cracker beneath. Pop the whole tray into the oven for 6 minutes. This brief bake softens the cookie so it’s tender but still sturdy.
Step 3: Top with Marshmallows, Chocolate, and Candy
Once the cookies have baked partially, remove the baking sheet and generously sprinkle mini marshmallows, pieces of Hershey Bars, Reeses Pieces, and mini chocolate chips over each bar. This layer is going to transform into the ooey-gooey, melty topping that turns a simple bar into a dreamy treat.
Step 4: Finish Baking and Serve
Return the tray to the oven for an additional 6 to 7 minutes. Keep an eye on the marshmallows as they puff up and toast lightly. Once golden and melty, take them out and allow the bars to cool just enough to be handled. Then, simply pull them apart and dive right in—they’re best enjoyed warm and fresh!
How to Serve Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle a little sea salt over the warm bars just before serving to highlight the sweet and salty contrast. You can also add a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a decorative flourish.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee to balance the sweetness. For a party spread, consider serving with fresh berries or sliced apples to add a refreshing bite alongside the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the pan? Layer these bars in a clear trifle dish with whipped cream and crushed peanuts to create a visually stunning dessert. Alternatively, cut them into bite-sized squares and serve on a platter with colorful toothpicks for easy snacking at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover bars (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain that chewy texture. For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week.
Freezing
This Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw at room temperature before enjoying to regain that soft, gooey texture.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the bars in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This helps restore the melted marshmallow and chocolate softness, making each bite just as lovely as fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use regular peanut butter cookies instead of Reeses Ready To Bake?
Absolutely! Regular peanut butter cookie dough will work just fine. The Reeses version adds a bit of extra peanut butter flavor, but homemade or store-bought dough will still yield delicious bars.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham crackers and ensure the cookie dough is gluten-free as well. Many brands offer gluten-free peanut butter cookie dough now, so it’s easy to adapt.
Can I use larger marshmallows if I don’t have mini ones?
You can, but be sure to chop the larger marshmallows into smaller pieces so they melt evenly and fit nicely on each bar. Mini marshmallows are preferred for their even melting and layering.
What’s the best way to cut the bars so they don’t crumble?
Wait until the bars have cooled slightly but are still warm before cutting. Use a sharp knife to gently slice through, wiping the blade clean between cuts to keep edges neat and prevent crumbling.
Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Definitely! Chopped peanuts, almonds, or even a sprinkle of toffee bits can add extra crunch and flavor. Just add them alongside the marshmallows and candies before the final bake.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that brings together all the best parts of a campfire treat with a peanut butter twist, this Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe is a must-try. It’s quick, fun, and perfect for sharing—trust me, once you bake these, they’ll become a beloved favorite you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Peanut Butter S’mores Bars combine the classic flavors of s’mores with rich peanut butter in an easy, quick-to-make treat. Featuring graham crackers as the base, topped with peanut butter cookie dough, gooey mini marshmallows, Hershey’s chocolate pieces, Reese’s Pieces, and mini chocolate chips, these bars are baked to perfection for a delightful sweet snack or dessert that serves up 24 pieces perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 24 graham cracker squares
Cookie Layer
- 24 pack Reese’s Ready To Bake Peanut Butter Cookies
Toppings
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 24 Hershey Bar pieces
- 1 cup Reese’s Pieces
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Arrange Graham Crackers: Place the 24 graham cracker squares on the parchment-lined baking sheet, breaking the graham crackers into individual squares if necessary.
- Add Cookie Dough: Place one unbaked Reese’s Ready To Bake Peanut Butter Cookie on each graham cracker square, then gently flatten the cookie slightly to help it bake evenly. Bake for 6 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Add Toppings and Bake Again: Remove the baking sheet from the oven, sprinkle 2 cups of mini marshmallows evenly over the cookies, add one piece of Hershey Bar on each, scatter 1 cup of Reese’s Pieces, and sprinkle 1/4 cup of mini chocolate chips on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 6 to 7 minutes until the marshmallows are melted and toppings are gooey.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool slightly. Pull apart the bars and serve warm for the best gooey s’mores experience.
Notes
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Do not overbake the cookie layer initially; 6 minutes is enough to partially cook the dough before adding toppings.
- Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite candies or nuts.
- Allow bars to cool slightly before separating to avoid burning and breaking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
