Reeses Peanut Butter Smores Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Are you ready for a decadent treat that combines the beloved flavors of peanut butter, chocolate, and s’mores all in one delightful bar? Look no further than these Reeses Peanut Butter Smores Oatmeal Cookie Bars! They are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and are sure to become a favorite among family and friends. With a chewy oatmeal base, creamy peanut butter, and gooey marshmallow fluff, these cookie bars are a delightful twist on the classic s’mores dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Reeses Peanut Butter Smores Oatmeal Cookie Bars are a game changer for dessert lovers. They boast a perfect blend of textures, from the chewy oats to the creamy peanut butter, complemented by the crunch of chocolate and the fluffiness of marshmallow. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly customizable, making it a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or just want something sweet to enjoy, these bars check all the boxes.

What You’ll Gather

• 12 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 cups light brown sugar
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 eggs, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup Reese’s peanut butter baking chips
• 7 full-size Hershey’s chocolate bars
• 7 ounces marshmallow fluff
• 1 cup Reese’s miniatures, chopped

Gear Checklist

• 9×13 inch baking pan – to create the perfect size for your bars.
• Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
• Whisk – to mix wet ingredients smoothly.
• Rubber spatula – for folding in the dry ingredients and marshmallow fluff.
• Parchment paper – to line the baking pan for easy removal.

Make Reeses Peanut Butter Smores Oatmeal Cookie Bars: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and light brown sugar until combined. Add in the creamy peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and well incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, old-fashioned oats, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together to ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add the Goodies

Fold in the Reese’s peanut butter baking chips and chopped Reese’s miniatures into the dough until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Spread the Dough

Spread half of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, pressing down gently to form an even layer.

Step 7: Layer the Chocolate and Marshmallow

Place the full-size Hershey’s chocolate bars over the cookie dough layer, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Then, spread the marshmallow fluff over the chocolate layer, creating a gooey and delicious topping.

Step 8: Add the Remaining Dough

Using the remaining cookie dough, drop spoonfuls over the marshmallow fluff. It’s okay if it doesn’t completely cover the marshmallow; it will spread while baking.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. You want a slightly gooey texture in the center.

Step 10: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Variations for Dietary Needs

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use a vegan butter alternative.
• Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter.
• Dairy-Free: Ensure all chocolate and marshmallow fluff are dairy-free options.

Things That Go Wrong

• Too dry or crumbly: This can happen if you over-measure the flour. Make sure to spoon the flour into the measuring cup without packing it down.
• Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the bars towards the end of the baking time; they should be set but still slightly soft in the middle.
• Sticking to the pan: Always line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Uneven layers: If you find the layers uneven, use an offset spatula to smooth the layers before baking.

How to Store & Reheat

Store these Reeses Peanut Butter Smores Oatmeal Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold for a chewy treat!

Top Questions & Answers

Can I freeze these cookie bars?

Absolutely! You can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container.

Can I use other types of chocolate in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute the Hershey’s chocolate bars with your favorite chocolate, such as dark chocolate or a different brand of milk chocolate.

What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?

You can easily make your own by crushing whole graham crackers in a food processor or using a rolling pin. Alternatively, you can use vanilla wafer crumbs as a substitute.

Can I add nuts to the bars?

Definitely! Chopped peanuts or any other nuts can add an extra crunch and flavor to these bars. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips and miniatures.

Cook This Next

• Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
• S’mores Brownies
• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie

See You at the Table

These Reeses Peanut Butter Smores Oatmeal Cookie Bars are not just a treat; they are an experience. With every bite, you’re transported to a place of pure bliss, where chocolate and peanut butter reign supreme. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to impress everyone with a dessert that is as fun to make as it is to eat. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures, and don’t forget to share (if you want to)!