Now that school is back in session, we’re bringing back an old-school concept — the cookie jar — and giving it a fresh new look and taste. Have fun baking a few batches of homemade cookies over the weekend and store them in airtight containers or jars for the kids to select an after-school sweet. These bright, candy-adorned treats from Food Network chefs appeal to the child in us all. The kids won't be the only ones trying to sneak them from the cookie jar (a high shelf helps!).

The one (and possibly only) problem with traditional s'mores is that they're not so portable. Ree Drummond solves that conundrum with these goodies — they're dipped in white or milk chocolate so the gooey marshmallow filling is nicely contained once it hardens. To further up the ante, she adds peanut butter to the classic graham cracker-chocolate-marshmallow combo.

Follow Giada De Laurentiis' lead and make a batch of sugar cookies using fun animal-shaped cookie cutters, then store them in the cookie jar. For a fun after-school or weekend treat, break out the colorful icing and sprinkles so the kids can get to work decorating.

No one can deny the convenience of premade cookie dough, but these DIY slice-and-bake cookies are nearly as easy — and much more delicious. For a burst of color, add chopped candies (like M&M's) to the batter before rolling the dough into a tube and freezing for later use.

This colorful confection is like a cookie cake: Ree spreads melted chocolate chips over a buttery cookie crust with a spatula to form a sweet chocolate layer. Add your favorite toppings — like chocolate candies or mini marshmallows — while the chocolate is still warm, so they'll adhere to the top. Then, cut into squares and enjoy, or store them in the jar for a future treat.

Check out more cookie-jar treats and dozens of fun ideas for back-to-school.