S’mores cookies bring the best parts of a classic campfire treat into a delicious, oven-baked dessert that everyone can enjoy year-round. With gooey marshmallows, melty chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers all packed into a soft cookie, they offer the nostalgic flavor of s’mores without the need for a firepit. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or an afternoon indulgence, these cookies combine textures and flavors in a way that’s irresistible. Whether you’re baking for kids or adults, this easy recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth with the familiar taste of toasted marshmallow, chocolate, and cookie goodness.
Ingredients for S’mores Cookies
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 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
For the S’mores Mix-Ins
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 4 full graham cracker sheets, broken into small pieces
- Optional: 1 Hershey’s chocolate bar, chopped
How to Make the Cookie Dough
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes using a hand or stand mixer and is crucial for giving the cookies their soft texture.
Incorporating Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients help bind the dough and add richness to the flavor of your s’mores cookies.
Adding Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure the cookies remain tender once baked.
Folding in the S’mores Goodness
Mixing Marshmallows, Chocolate, and Graham Crackers
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, graham cracker pieces, and mini marshmallows. If you’re using chopped chocolate bar pieces for an extra melty center, fold those in at this point too. Try not to crush the graham crackers too much they add a delightful crunch to the cookies when left in chunks.
Optional Topping for Extra Impact
If desired, reserve a few marshmallows and pieces of chocolate to press into the tops of the cookie dough balls before baking. This gives each cookie a picture-perfect look and boosts the gooey texture as they bake.
Baking the S’mores Cookies
Shaping the Cookies
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. These cookies will spread slightly as they bake, so give them room to grow.
Baking Time
Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. The marshmallows will puff up and caramelize slightly, creating that signature s’mores look and flavor.
Cooling the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This resting time lets the cookies firm up while keeping the centers soft and chewy. The warm marshmallows and chocolate may still be gooey, adding to the indulgent experience.
Serving Suggestions
Best Ways to Enjoy
S’mores cookies are best served slightly warm when the chocolate is still melted and the marshmallows are soft. They pair well with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa. For a more decadent treat, try sandwiching two cookies together with a scoop of vanilla ice cream in the middle.
Great for Gifting
Package cooled cookies in a decorative tin or cookie bag to give as gifts during holidays, birthdays, or special occasions. Their familiar flavors and nostalgic appeal make them a hit with kids and adults alike.
Tips for Perfect S’mores Cookies
- Don’t overbake: These cookies taste best when slightly underbaked. They continue to firm up as they cool, keeping the centers soft and marshmallows gooey.
- Use quality chocolate: While chocolate chips work well, using chopped chocolate bars or chunks gives more melt and a better texture.
- Keep marshmallows in check: Too many marshmallows can melt and spread too much. One cup in the dough is usually perfect, with a few extras on top for looks.
- Chill the dough: If you want thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps control spreading and creates a denser, bakery-style result.
- Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.
Variations on S’mores Cookies
Peanut Butter S’mores Cookies
Add 1/2 cup peanut butter to the dough or use peanut butter chips instead of chocolate chips. This twist adds a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the marshmallows and graham crackers.
Double Chocolate S’mores Cookies
Replace 1/4 cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolate cookie base. This version is perfect for chocolate lovers who want a deeper, richer cookie flavor.
Oatmeal S’mores Cookies
Substitute 1 cup of the flour with rolled oats for a heartier texture and slightly nutty flavor. These cookies have a rustic quality and extra chewiness from the oats.
Why S’mores Cookies Are Always a Favorite
S’mores cookies combine the elements of a timeless treat into a single bite-sized dessert that’s both fun and delicious. They offer all the comfort of traditional chocolate chip cookies, but with added marshmallow gooeyness and the crisp, sweet flavor of graham crackers. Easy to customize and crowd-pleasing, these cookies are ideal for everything from cozy evenings at home to large family gatherings. Baking a batch of s’mores cookies brings a bit of campfire magic to your kitchen, no matter the season. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your cookie rotation.