Who doesn’t love the classic taste of s’mores? Now, imagine that iconic flavor transformed into warm, gooey cookie bars! In this easy recipe, I’ll guide you step by step to create S’mores Cookie Bars that are perfect for any occasion. With soft cookie layers, chocolate chips, and fluffy marshmallows, these treats will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s get baking and satisfy that sweet tooth!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– Extra chocolate chips and marshmallows for topping
To make S’mores Cookie Bars, gather the ingredients listed above. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect treat. The butter needs to be softened. This makes it easier to mix. Soft butter helps to create a nice, creamy texture. The sugars add sweetness and help with moisture.
You’ll use two kinds of sugar: brown and granulated. Brown sugar gives a deeper flavor, while granulated sugar keeps things light. Eggs add richness and help bind everything together.
The vanilla extract brings a warm flavor that complements the chocolate. Flour provides the base, while baking soda makes your bars rise. Always remember to add a pinch of salt. It enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Chocolate chips and marshmallows are the stars of this recipe. They give the bars that classic s’mores taste. The graham cracker crumbs add a crunchy texture and a hint of nostalgia.
Don’t forget the extra chocolate chips and marshmallows for topping. They make your bars even more decadent! For the full recipe, you can check out S’mores Cookie Bars Delight .
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
– In a bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
– Beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
– Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each.
– Pour in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and blend until smooth.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
– In another bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
– Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients.
– Be careful not to overmix; just blend until combined.
Fold in Special Additions
– Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs.
– This adds a lot of flavor and texture to your bars.
Layering the Dessert
– Press half of the dough into the prepared baking pan.
– Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of mini marshmallows over the dough, followed by extra chocolate chips.
– Crumble the remaining dough on top, lightly pressing it down.
Baking
– Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
– Look for a golden brown top and edges that pull away from the pan.
– Let the bars cool for 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares for serving.
Enjoy these warm, gooey S’mores Cookie Bars with a glass of cold milk! For the full recipe, check out S’mores Cookie Bars Delight .
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
How do I know when they are done baking?
You want a golden brown top on your s’mores cookie bars. The edges should pull slightly away from the pan. This is a good sign they are ready. Test them with a toothpick, too. Insert it into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are done!
How can I avoid overmixing for the best texture?
Mix just until the dry ingredients blend with the wet ones. You want the dough to be soft but not tough. Overmixing makes your bars dense. Gently fold in chocolate chips and graham cracker crumbs to keep them light.
Serving Suggestions
What are the best ways to present S’mores Cookie Bars?
Serve these bars warm for the best flavor. Drizzle melted chocolate over the top. A sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs adds a nice touch. Cut them into squares for easy serving. You can also stack them on a plate for a lovely display.
What pairs well with S’mores Cookie Bars?
Cold milk is a classic choice. It balances the sweet and gooey flavors perfectly. Ice cream also makes a great side. Try vanilla or chocolate flavors for a real treat!
Enhancing Flavor
What types of chocolate can I use?
You can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips. Dark chocolate adds a rich flavor. You can also try white chocolate for a sweeter taste. Mix different types for a fun twist!
Can I add spices for a twist?
Yes! Cinnamon or a hint of nutmeg can elevate your bars. Just a pinch goes a long way. If you like a little heat, try a dash of cayenne pepper. It creates an exciting contrast with the sweet flavors.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can make S’mores Cookie Bars fit your diet. For gluten-free options, swap all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. These options work well and keep your bars tasty. For dairy-free needs, replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use dairy-free chocolate to keep the rich flavor, too.
Flavor Add-ins
Want to mix things up? Try adding nuts! Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a crunchy twist. You can also stir in some fruit flavors. Chopped strawberries or raspberries can give a fresh taste that pairs well with chocolate and marshmallows. This fun change adds more texture and flavor to your bars.
Themed Variations
Seasons can inspire fun themes. For fall, add pumpkin spice to your dough for a cozy flavor. In winter, mix in peppermint extract for a minty touch. These variations can turn your S’mores Cookie Bars into a festive treat. It’s a great way to impress friends and family while keeping it simple.
Storage Info
Keeping Your Cookie Bars Fresh
Store your cookie bars in an airtight container. This keeps them soft and chewy. If you have leftovers, place parchment paper between layers. This helps to prevent sticking. Avoid putting warm bars in the container. Let them cool completely first.
You can freeze these cookie bars, but be careful. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. When you want to eat them, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature. This can make them soggy.
How Long They Last
At room temperature, these cookie bars last about five days. Keep them in a cool, dry place. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. However, chilling them may change their texture. They might become a bit firmer. Enjoy them fresh for the best taste!
If you want to find the Full Recipe, check it out for all the details!
FAQs
Can I make S’mores Cookie Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make S’mores Cookie Bars ahead of time. To prep in advance, bake the bars and let them cool. Once cool, cut them into squares and store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about three days. You can also freeze the bars for up to a month. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. Thaw them in the fridge before serving for the best taste.
What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs?
If you don’t have graham cracker crumbs, you can use other options. Crushed vanilla cookies work well. You can also use crushed digestive biscuits or even oatmeal cookies for a twist. Just make sure they have a similar texture to graham crackers.
Can I use different toppings?
Absolutely! You can get creative with toppings. Try adding peanut butter chips, white chocolate, or even butterscotch chips for a flavor twist. You can also sprinkle nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. A drizzle of caramel sauce can make it even more fun!
How can I make them more gooey?
To make your S’mores Cookie Bars more gooey, add extra chocolate chips and mini marshmallows. You can mix in a bit of melted chocolate into the dough before baking. Consider adding a layer of chocolate on top before baking for that melty goodness.
Where can I find the Full Recipe?
You can find the Full Recipe for these tasty treats here: S’mores Cookie Bars Delight . Enjoy!
In this post, we explored making S’mores Cookie Bars. We covered all the ingredients and detailed step-by-step instructions. You learned tips for perfect baking and creative variations to suit your taste. Finally, we shared storage tips so your cookie bars stay fresh. Enjoy making these delicious treats. They are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
