S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe
S’mores Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat, combining the flavors of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers into a chewy, cookie-style dessert. These bars have a golden-brown crust with a soft, gooey center filled with marshmallows and chocolate chips, creating a perfect bite every time. They offer a rich, sweet experience that’s reminiscent of summer nights spent by the fire, making them a great addition to any gathering or party.
Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a treat at home, these S’mores Cookie Bars are sure to impress. They’re easy to make and even easier to share, plus they taste amazing warm out of the oven or cooled to room temperature. With the nostalgic flavors of s’mores packed into a portable form, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time:
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Total Time: 35 min
How to Make S’mores Cookie Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This will ensure that your cookie bars don’t stick and come out easily after baking.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and fluffy; this will help create a light texture in the bars.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that extra depth of flavor.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the creamed mixture, ensuring not to overmix to keep the bars soft.
- Stir in chocolate chips and graham cracker crumbs: Gently fold the chocolate chips and graham cracker crumbs into the dough, distributing them evenly throughout.
- Layer the cookie dough: Spread half of the cookie dough into the prepared pan, creating a solid base for your bars.
- Add the marshmallows: Sprinkle the mini marshmallows on top, making sure they’re evenly spaced out for that gooey texture.
- Top with remaining dough: Carefully spread the remaining cookie dough over the marshmallows to cover them completely.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and cut: Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. This helps them set and makes cutting easier.
Pro Tips
- Softened Butter Is Key: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier blending. Cold butter can result in a dense cookie.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher bars.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham crackers can make a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or swap out some chocolate chips for peanut butter or another favorite. It’s a great way to personalize your bars.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookie bars to avoid overbaking and drying them out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
S’mores Cookie Bars combine the nostalgic flavors of classic s’mores into a convenient, easy-to-eat dessert. They’re sweet without being overwhelming, and the combination of chocolate and marshmallows creates a delightful balance of textures. The chewy cookie base is complemented by gooey pockets of marshmallow, making each bite satisfying.
These cookie bars are also incredibly simple to make. They require no complicated techniques and come together quickly, making them perfect for a last-minute treat or when you need to feed a crowd. Whether you’re enjoying them at a summer barbecue or during cozy movie nights, they’re versatile enough to fit any occasion.
How to Serve S’mores Cookie Bars
When serving S’mores Cookie Bars, presentation is key. You can cut them into squares and serve on a platter, or place them in individual cupcake liners for a fun touch. Pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can elevate the experience even more.
For drinks, consider serving them with cold milk or a hot chocolate for a nostalgic touch. These treats are also great with a cup of coffee or a warm mug of chai tea during the cooler months.
How to Store S’mores Cookie Bars
To keep your S’mores Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to 5 days. If you have leftovers, consider freezing them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container; they will be good for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make S’mores Cookie Bars
To enhance your cookie bars, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for warmth. Another tip is to use different types of chocolate, like dark or white chocolate, based on your preference. Timing is also essential; don’t forget to let the cookie bars cool completely before cutting to maintain their structure.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just be sure to adjust the ratios, so the texture remains right.
- Vegan: For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and replace eggs with applesauce or a flaxseed mixture. Use vegan chocolate chips as well.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and flavor profile.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 36g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
These bars are rich in carbohydrates and sugars, making them a sweet treat that’s best enjoyed in moderation.
Storage and Reheating
To reheat leftovers, place them in the microwave for 10-20 seconds until warm. Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes. Just be careful not to overheat as this can make them dry.
Customization Ideas
You can tweak the flavor of your S’mores Cookie Bars by using flavored chips like peppermint or butterscotch. Top with crushed graham crackers for added texture, or drizzle some caramel sauce over the bars before serving for an indulgent touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Allowing to Cool: Cutting the bars too soon can cause them to crumble. Always give them time to set.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to a dense texture. Make sure they are at room temperature.
- Skipping Greasing the Pan: Not greasing the baking pan can lead to sticking and a messy outcome.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake to prevent them from becoming dry.
Serving Occasions
S’mores Cookie Bars are perfect for various occasions, including family gatherings, birthday parties, holidays, and casual movie nights. They also work wonderfully for bake sales or as a sweet treat for lunchboxes, allowing everyone to enjoy a taste of nostalgia.
Why Make This Recipe
What makes S’mores Cookie Bars unique is their ability to capture the flavors of traditional s’mores without the need for a campfire. They’re a fun, versatile dessert that brings back memories while also being easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can recreate this beloved treat in your own kitchen.
FAQs
-
Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini?
Yes, but you’ll need to cut regular marshmallows into smaller pieces to ensure they distribute evenly. -
Are these bars chewy or crunchy?
They are chewy with a soft center, thanks to the combination of butter, sugar, and marshmallows. -
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance, just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. -
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
Feel free to use butterscotch chips, white chocolate chips, or even chopped-up candy bars for a fun twist. -
How can I prevent the marshmallows from burning?
Place the marshmallows in the center of the cookie dough to minimize direct exposure to heat, or add them halfway through baking.
Disclaimer:
The nutritional information provided is approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and quantities used. Always check product labels for the most accurate information.
Print
S’mores Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on the classic campfire treat, these S’mores Cookie Bars combine chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers into a chewy dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually fold this mixture into the creamed mixture.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and graham cracker crumbs.
- Spread half of the cookie dough into the prepared pan.
- Evenly sprinkle the mini marshmallows on top.
- Spread the remaining dough over the marshmallows.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
For best results, ensure butter is softened and don’t overmix. You can customize toppings to your liking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg