If you’re craving a nostalgic treat that takes s’mores to a whole new level, this Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the classic graham cracker and melted chocolate combo with the irresistible flavors of peanut butter cookies and a festive sprinkle of Reese’s Pieces, these bars bring gooey marshmallow magic and crunchy peanut butter goodness together in every bite. Whether you want a simple dessert for a crowd or a festive snack to share around the campfire vibe at home, this recipe will quickly become your go-to showstopper.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right here is key because each one plays a unique role — from the crunchy graham crackers that provide a sturdy base, to the velvety peanut butter cookie dough that adds richness and chew, and of course, the marshmallows and chocolates that melt into pure bliss.
- 24 graham cracker squares: These act as the classic s’mores foundation, offering that iconic crunch and honey flavor.
- 24 pack Reese’s Ready To Bake Peanut Butter Cookies: Ready-to-bake dough packs incredible peanut buttery flavor and softness that harmonizes with the other textures.
- 2 cups mini marshmallows: The gooey, gooey star ingredient adding that authentic grilled-s’mores sweetness.
- 24 Hershey Bar pieces: Traditional milk chocolate squares that melt perfectly, blending beautifully with peanut butter and marshmallows.
- 1 cup Reese’s Pieces: Little bursts of peanutty candy crunch to scatter throughout, boosting both flavor and visual appeal.
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips: Tiny pockets of melty chocolate goodness to elevate every bite’s chocolaty richness.
How to Make Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start off by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep keeps the bars from sticking and helps them bake evenly to perfection.
Step 2: Create Your Graham Cracker Base
Break the graham crackers into individual squares if they aren’t already separated. Arrange all 24 squares neatly on your parchment-lined sheet. These will form the crisp, golden crust that holds your peanut butter and marshmallow layers beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Peanut Butter Cookie Dough
Place one unbaked Reese’s peanut butter cookie dough pack right on top of each graham cracker square. Gently flatten the dough so it spreads to cover the cracker but remains a bit thick for that soft, chewy center. Pop them in the oven for about 6 minutes — just enough to get a slight bake going while keeping the cookies soft.
Step 4: Top with Marshmallows and Chocolates, Then Bake Again
As soon as the first bake finishes, pull the tray out and quickly scatter the mini marshmallows, Hershey bar pieces, Reese’s Pieces, and mini chocolate chips across each cookie-topped cracker. Return the pan to the oven for another 6 to 7 minutes so the marshmallows puff up and everything melts into a deliciously gooey topping.
Step 5: Cool Slightly and Serve
Remove your Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe from the oven and let them cool just enough to handle easily. The warmth will help the bars set slightly, but they should still be wonderfully soft and ooey-gooey. Now pull them apart and get ready for some serious snacking.
How to Serve Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, sprinkle some crushed peanuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving. It adds crunch and visual contrast that makes these bars even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
These bars pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, a rich cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert experience. Fresh berries on the side can add a touch of brightness to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering these bars in a clear glass trifle bowl or serving them on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh fruit and nuts. For parties, place small bars in mini cupcake liners—easy to grab and share!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the marshmallows soft and the peanut butter cookie chewy without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead for a crowd, they freeze wonderfully. Wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep for up to 2 months without losing any flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen bars, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about an hour, then pop into a warm oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes to revive that melty fresh-baked goodness. Avoid the microwave to keep the texture perfect.
FAQs
Can I use homemade peanut butter cookie dough instead of the ready-to-bake packs?
Absolutely! Homemade dough works just as well and lets you customize sweetness or add a pinch of salt for contrast. Just make sure the dough is soft enough to bake evenly on the graham cracker base.
What if I don’t have Hershey bars? Can I substitute other chocolates?
Definitely. Milk chocolate chips or even dark chocolate chunks can be swapped in. The key is that they melt smoothly to mimic the gooey s’mores experience.
Will the bars hold together well if I want to pack them for a picnic?
Yes, these bars are sturdy enough to travel if wrapped carefully. Just keep them cool to prevent the marshmallows and chocolate from melting too much during transit.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting gluten-free graham crackers and using gluten-free peanut butter cookie dough, you can easily make a version of this Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe that everyone can enjoy.
Is there a way to make these bars less sweet?
Try reducing the candy additions or using semi-sweet or dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. You can also skip the Reese’s Pieces and replace marshmallows with a lighter topping like sliced bananas or nuts.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly wonderful about the blend of peanut butter, melty chocolate, and toasted marshmallows all in one bite, and this Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe beautifully captures that magic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, making an everyday treat, or impressing guests with an easy yet decadent dessert, these bars bring warmth and joy to any occasion. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy s’mores forever!
Print
Peanut Butter S’mores Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars (serves 24 people)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Peanut Butter S’mores Bars featuring a crispy graham cracker base topped with peanut butter cookie, mini marshmallows, chocolate, and Reeses pieces. Perfect for a quick dessert or party treat.
Ingredients
Base
- 24 graham cracker squares
Cookie Layer
- 24 pack Reeses Ready To Bake Peanut Butter Cookies
Toppings
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 24 Hershey Bar pieces
- 1 cup Reeses 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 prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Arrange Graham Crackers: Place the 24 graham cracker squares evenly across the parchment-lined baking sheet. Break the crackers into individual squares if needed, ensuring they are separated and flat.
- Add Cookie Layer: Take one unbaked Reese’s Ready To Bake Peanut Butter Cookie and place it on each graham cracker square. Flatten each cookie slightly to form an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 6 minutes.
- Add Toppings and Finish Baking: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Immediately top each cookie with mini marshmallows, one piece of a Hershey Bar, Reeses Pieces, and mini chocolate chips. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 6 to 7 minutes until the marshmallows are melted and light golden brown.
- Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before pulling the bars apart and serving them warm as a gooey, peanut buttery s’mores treat.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh mini marshmallows to get that perfect gooey texture.
- You can substitute Hershey Bar pieces with any milk chocolate pieces if desired.
- These bars are best enjoyed warm but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Use parchment paper for easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.
