Total Time: 25 minutes | Yield: 24 cookies
Introduction
I’ll never forget the summer evening when my sister and I were craving s’mores but realized we had no graham crackers, no campfire, and honestly, no energy to fuss with roasting marshmallows. That’s when inspiration struck—what if we could capture that beloved s’mores flavor using something even simpler? These s’mores cracker cookies were born from that moment of creative problem-solving, and they’ve since become our most-requested no-bake treat. The genius lies in their simplicity: buttery Ritz crackers replace graham crackers, marshmallow crème eliminates the need for sticky toasted marshmallows, and chocolate almond bark creates a smooth, easy coating.
What makes these cookies truly special is how they deliver authentic s’mores flavor without any of the usual hassle. No campfire required, no burnt marshmallows to deal with, and no messy assembly around a fire pit. The salty-sweet combination of Ritz crackers with creamy marshmallow and rich chocolate creates an addictive flavor profile that somehow tastes even better than traditional s’mores. Plus, with just four ingredients and no oven required, they’re perfect for involving kids in the kitchen or whipping up impressive treats on scorching summer days when turning on the oven sounds unbearable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ridiculously Simple: With only four main ingredients and no baking required, these cookies are almost foolproof. If you can melt chocolate and spread marshmallow crème, you can make these successfully.
Lightning Fast: From start to finish, you’ll have these ready in just 25 minutes. Most of that time is passive—waiting for the chocolate to set—so you’re free to do other things.
No-Bake Summer Solution: On hot days when you want something sweet but can’t bear to heat up the kitchen, these cookies are the perfect answer. No oven, no stovetop cooking, just simple assembly.
Kid-Friendly Activity: Children love helping make these cookies. The assembly process is straightforward enough for little hands, making this an ideal family activity that results in delicious rewards.
Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Using accessible, affordable ingredients means you can make a large batch without breaking the bank. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or feeding crowds on a budget.
Ingredients
Main Components:
- 48 Ritz crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- 7 oz marshmallow crème
- 24 oz chocolate almond bark
- 1 cup graham crackers, finely crushed
Optional Toppings:
- Marshmallow bits
- Mini chocolate chips
- Extra graham cracker crumbs
- Sea salt flakes
Equipment Needed:
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Candy dipping fork or regular fork
- Wax paper or parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing Your Workspace
Step 1: Set Up Your Station Before you begin, lay out a long sheet of wax paper on your countertop or a large baking sheet. This is where your finished cookies will set, so make sure you have enough space for all 24 cookies. Having everything organized before you start makes the dipping process much smoother and less stressful.
Melting the Chocolate
Step 2: Melt the Almond Bark Break the chocolate almond bark into smaller pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 40-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each round. Continue this process until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted, with no lumps remaining. Be patient—rushing this step can result in burned chocolate with a grainy texture.
Assembling the Cracker Sandwiches
Step 3: Arrange Your Crackers Line up all 48 Ritz crackers on your work surface, flat side up. This assembly-line approach makes the filling process efficient and ensures you don’t accidentally use too many crackers for one side.
Step 4: Add Marshmallow Crème Using a small spoon or butter knife, place a small dollop of marshmallow crème (about 1 teaspoon) in the center of 24 crackers. Keep the crème centered and avoid spreading it too close to the edges—it will naturally spread when you press the sandwich together. Too much crème will ooze out and mix into your chocolate, creating a mess.
Step 5: Create Sandwiches Take the remaining 24 crackers and place one on top of each marshmallow-topped cracker. Press down gently but firmly to spread the crème evenly between the crackers. The marshmallow should reach nearly to the edges but not squeeze out. If it does ooze slightly, wipe it off before dipping.
Dipping in Chocolate
Step 6: Perfect Your Dipping Technique Using a fork or candy dipping tool, carefully place one cracker sandwich into the melted chocolate. Make sure it’s completely submerged and coated on all sides. Lift it out with the fork, letting it sit for a moment over the bowl.
Step 7: Remove Excess Chocolate Gently tap the fork against the side of the bowl several times. This important step removes excess chocolate, preventing thick, messy pools around your cookies. Continue tapping until the dripping slows to occasional drops. Slide the fork across the edge of the bowl to remove any chocolate from the bottom.
Step 8: Transfer to Wax Paper Carefully slide the chocolate-covered cookie off the fork onto your prepared wax paper. Use a toothpick or second fork to gently push it off if needed. Work quickly but carefully to maintain the cookie’s shape.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Step 9: Apply Toppings Immediately While the chocolate is still wet and glossy, sprinkle your desired toppings over each cookie. Crushed graham crackers are essential for that authentic s’mores flavor, while marshmallow bits and mini chocolate chips add extra texture and visual appeal. Work quickly—you only have about 30 seconds before the chocolate begins to set.
Step 10: Allow to Set Let the cookies rest undisturbed on the wax paper until the chocolate completely hardens. This typically takes 30-45 minutes at room temperature, or you can refrigerate them for 15-20 minutes to speed up the process. Don’t move them until the chocolate is firm, or you’ll create smudges and fingerprints.
Serving Suggestions
These elegant cookies deserve beautiful presentation. Arrange them on a tiered serving platter for parties, creating visual height and making them easy for guests to grab.
For casual gatherings, pile them in a rustic wooden bowl or vintage tin. The contrast between the homey container and the elegant chocolate coating creates charming appeal.
Package them in clear boxes tied with ribbon for gifts or party favors. Stack three cookies per box with tissue paper between layers to prevent sticking and create an impressive presentation.
Serve them alongside hot chocolate, coffee, or cold milk for the ultimate sweet treat experience. The beverage helps balance the richness of the chocolate coating.
Recipe Variations
Dark Chocolate Sophistication
Replace chocolate almond bark with dark chocolate candy melts or dark chocolate almond bark. The less-sweet chocolate creates a more sophisticated flavor profile that appeals to adult palates.
Peanut Butter Twist
Spread a thin layer of peanut butter along with the marshmallow crème for a peanut butter cup meets s’mores experience. This combination is absolutely addictive and adds protein for slightly more substance.
White Chocolate Dreams
Use white chocolate almond bark instead of regular chocolate for a sweeter, creamier coating. Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top in a zigzag pattern for elegant contrast.
Mint Chocolate Version
Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the melted chocolate and use chocolate graham cracker crumbs on top. This creates a refreshing mint chocolate chip flavor reminiscent of Girl Scout Thin Mints.
Salted Caramel S’mores
Drizzle caramel sauce over the marshmallow crème before adding the top cracker, then sprinkle with sea salt flakes after dipping in chocolate. The sweet-salty combination is irresistible.
Make-Ahead Tips
Advance Preparation: These cookies can be made up to 5-7 days before you need them. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, layering parchment paper between levels to prevent sticking.
Assembly Strategy: For large batches, work in stages. Assemble all the cracker sandwiches first, then dip and decorate in groups of 4-6 to ensure the chocolate doesn’t harden before you can add toppings.
Freezing Options: While not typically necessary, you can freeze these cookies for up to 2 months. Layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Gift Packaging: Package these cookies 1-2 days before gifting to ensure the chocolate is completely set and flavors have melded. They transport beautifully and hold up well during shipping.
Party Planning: Make these the day before your event and store in airtight containers. They’ll actually taste slightly better as the flavors have time to meld together.
Notes
Cracker Brand Matters: Ritz crackers are specifically recommended because they’re sturdier than generic brands. Their buttery flavor also complements the chocolate and marshmallow perfectly. Other brands may break during dipping.
Marshmallow Crème Control: Less is more with the marshmallow crème. A teaspoon in the center is plenty—it will spread as you press the crackers together. Too much will ooze into your chocolate and create a sticky mess.
Chocolate Temperature: If your chocolate begins to thicken as you work, return it to the microwave for 10-15 seconds to thin it out. Properly fluid chocolate creates a smoother, thinner coating.
Tapping Technique: The tapping motion on the bowl’s edge is crucial for achieving a thin, even chocolate coating without thick puddles. Don’t skip this step—it makes a visible difference in the final appearance.
Graham Cracker Crushing: Place graham crackers in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin to create various textures—some fine crumbs and some larger pieces. This textural variety adds interest to each bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of almond bark? While you can, chocolate chips don’t melt as smoothly and may require adding shortening or coconut oil to thin them for dipping. Almond bark is formulated specifically for candy-making and produces better results.
Why is my chocolate so thick and hard to work with? Chocolate almond bark can thicken as it cools. Return it to the microwave for short intervals to thin it back out. You can also add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to improve fluidity.
Can I use other types of crackers? Ritz crackers work best due to their sturdiness and buttery flavor, but Club crackers or Townhouse crackers can work in a pinch. Avoid thin, delicate crackers that will break during dipping.
How do I prevent the crackers from breaking while dipping? Handle them gently and make sure they’re completely submerged before lifting. Use a fork with wide tines for better support, and consider placing the sandwich on the fork rather than piercing it.
What if the marshmallow crème is too thick to spread? Marshmallow crème naturally varies in consistency. If yours is very stiff, microwave the jar (lid removed) for 10-15 seconds to soften it slightly. Stir well before using.
Can I make these without the graham cracker topping? Absolutely! While the graham cracker crumbs enhance the s’mores flavor, the cookies are still delicious without them. You can use any toppings you prefer or leave them plain.
How should I store these in humid weather? Humidity can make chocolate coatings soft and sticky. Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator if your climate is very humid, and bring to room temperature before serving.
Can I use homemade marshmallow crème? Yes, but homemade versions are often runnier than store-bought. If using homemade, reduce the amount slightly and make sure it’s thick enough to stay centered on the crackers.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Category: Dessert/Snack | Method: No-Bake | Cuisine: American
Nutrition Information (Per Cookie)
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 236 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0.1g
- Sodium: 91mg
- Potassium: 14mg
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Sugar: 27g
- Calcium: 13mg
- Iron: 0.5mg