As I unpacked the nostalgic flavors of my childhood, I caught myself daydreaming about roaring campfires and gooey s'mores beneath the starlit sky. That’s the delicious inspiration behind these S'mores Cookie Bars! This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic treat, merging the joy of s'mores with the convenience of cookie bars, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a long day. Not only are these bars incredibly simple to whip up—taking just 15 minutes of prep time—but they’re also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in. Imagine the joy as each bite melts in your mouth, blending chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker goodness. Are you ready to embark on this sweet adventure? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These S'mores Cookie Bars Amazing?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with the delightful combination of rich chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes of prep, these bars fit into even the busiest schedules.
A Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, picnics, or cozy nights at home, they will have everyone asking for seconds.
Versatile Treat: Customize with nuts, different chocolates, or even peanut butter for a twist on this classic!
Memories in Every Slice: Capture the essence of campfire s'mores in an easily shareable bar form, sparking joyful memories with every bite.
S'mores Cookie Bars Ingredients
Dive into the sweet world of S'mores Cookie Bars with these easy-to-find ingredients!
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter – softened for a creamy texture in your bars.
- 1 cup brown sugar – packed for that deep, caramel-like flavor.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – balances the sweetness and adds a light crunch.
- 2 large eggs – give richness and structure to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – helps create that perfect chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – ensures your bars rise perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
For the Mix-ins
- 1 cup chocolate chips – adds delightful melty chocolate in every bite.
- 1 cup mini marshmallows – brings that iconic gooeyness of s'mores.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs – provides the classic crunch that ties it all together.
Get ready to create these mouthwatering S'mores Cookie Bars that will surely wow your tastebuds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S'mores Cookie Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grab a 9x13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent your delicious S'mores Cookie Bars from sticking, ensuring a perfect release once baked.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving the light texture of your cookie bars.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is well blended, and the batter becomes smooth. The eggs and vanilla will add richness and depth to your S'mores Cookie Bars.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cookie bars to remain tender and chewy!
Step 5: Add Chocolate and Graham Cracker Crumbs
Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs using a spatula. This will infuse your S'mores Cookie Bars with delightful chocolatey and crunchy textures, reminiscent of the classic s'mores treat. Make sure the mix-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Layer the Cookie Dough
Spread half of the cookie dough mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing down gently to create an even layer. This forms the base for your S'mores Cookie Bars, so ensure it’s packed well for even baking.
Step 7: Add the Marshmallow Layer
Sprinkle 1 cup of mini marshmallows evenly over the cookie dough layer. The marshmallows will melt beautifully as they bake, adding that iconic gooeyness that s'mores are known for. Be generous with this layer for the best results!
Step 8: Top with Remaining Dough
Using spoonfuls, drop the remaining cookie dough over the marshmallows as evenly as possible. Some marshmallow should peek through, but aim to cover most of the surface for a deliciously balanced treat. This will ensure that the marshmallows remain hidden and melt into the cookie bar.
Step 9: Bake the Cookie Bars
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be firm, while the center may be slightly soft—this is the perfect doneness for your S'mores Cookie Bars.
Step 10: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This is an essential step, as cooling will help the bars set properly. After about 30 minutes, slice into squares and prepare to enjoy these delightful S'mores Cookie Bars!
What to Serve with S'mores Cookie Bars
Imagine the sweet anticipation of a delightful dessert spread that perfectly complements your cherished S'mores Cookie Bars!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the rich chocolate and marshmallow flavors, adding a delightful temperature contrast.
- Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle warm chocolate ganache over the bars for an extra layer of indulgence; it enhances the chocolate experience and makes them extra luscious.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries offer a fresh, tangy contrast to the sweetness, brightening each bite with a burst of flavor.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce brings a buttery sweetness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and graham cracker notes.
- Milkshakes: A chocolate or s'mores-flavored milkshake creates a fun pairing, making this dessert feel like a sweet treat from your favorite diner.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy element that enhances the overall texture and provides a mild, creamy backdrop to the bars.
- Coffee: A rich, brewed coffee can cut through the sweetness, making for a satisfying finish to your dessert experience. Enjoy the comforting warmth it brings!
- Hot Chocolate: Serve with a warm cup of hot chocolate, perhaps spiked with a touch of peppermint, for a cozy treat that echoes the s'mores theme.
- Chewy Granola: A side of chewy granola bars offers a crunchy surprise that contrasts nicely with the chewy texture of the S'mores Cookie Bars.
- S'mores-inspired Cupcakes: For a themed dessert spread, serve mini cupcakes topped with chocolate frosting and toasted marshmallows, keeping the fun alive!
How to Store and Freeze S'mores Cookie Bars
Room Temperature: Store leftover S'mores Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and chewy.
Fridge: For longer freshness, place the bars in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to in wrap them tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze S'mores Cookie Bars by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars overnight in the fridge or at room temperature. Reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that just-baked, gooey experience!
Make Ahead Options
These S'mores Cookie Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients together and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also enhances the flavors as they meld overnight. If you're planning to bake them later, just take the dough out about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature. When you're ready to serve, simply spread the dough in your prepared baking dish, layer with mini marshmallows, and bake as directed for delicious, freshly baked S'mores Cookie Bars!
Expert Tips for S'mores Cookie Bars
Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for an even, creamy dough that bakes beautifully.
Don't Overmix: Once you incorporate the flour, mix just until combined to avoid tough cookie bars. This keeps your S'mores Cookie Bars wonderfully chewy!
Layer the Marshmallows Wisely: Distributing the mini marshmallows evenly helps every bite maintain that gooey s'mores experience. Don’t skimp on this crucial step!
Watch the Baking Time: Ovens vary, so check your bars at the 25-minute mark. They’re perfect when golden on top and slightly soft in the center.
Let Them Cool: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing ensures they hold their shape and won't crumble. Enjoy the magic of perfectly baked S'mores Cookie Bars!
S'mores Cookie Bars Variations
Feel free to play around with flavors and ingredients to make these S'mores Cookie Bars uniquely yours!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for delicious bars without gluten.
-
Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an extra crunch and depth of flavor in every bite.
-
Peanut Butter Bliss: Swirl in ½ cup of peanut butter into the dough for a creamy twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
-
Spicy Kick: Mix in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy surprise that'll ignite your taste buds.
-
Miniature Treats: Make smaller bars by baking in a 9x9 inch dish and reducing the baking time. Perfect for bite-sized indulgence!
-
Different Chocolates: Experiment with white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks instead of milk chocolate for a richer taste experience.
-
Marshmallow Swirl: Use a layer of marshmallow fluff instead of mini marshmallows for a smoother, extra gooey texture throughout.
-
Dairy-Free: Swap butter and chocolate chips for your favorite dairy-free alternatives—still delicious and guaranteed to satisfy!
S'mores Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ingredients for S'mores Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! Fresh ingredients play a vital role in the taste of your bars. Choose butter that is soft but still cool to the touch, as overly melted butter can change the bar's texture. For chocolate chips, opt for semi-sweet or dark for a richer flavor, and ensure your marshmallows are plump and soft, avoiding any that may be hard or stale.
How should I store leftover S'mores Cookie Bars?
Very! You can keep your S'mores Cookie Bars at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just wrap them tightly to keep them fresh and moist; nobody wants stale cookies, right?
Can I freeze S'mores Cookie Bars? If so, how?
Yes, indeed! Freezing is a great way to preserve your S'mores Cookie Bars. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months! When you're ready to indulge, just thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a delicious treat.
What’s a common issue when making S'mores Cookie Bars?
A frequent hiccup is baking them too long! Aim for a golden brown top, but remember that the center might still seem soft when you pull them out of the oven. If your bars are overbaked, they may turn out dry rather than chewy. To prevent this, check for doneness at the 25-minute mark; they continue to firm up as they cool.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For sure! If you're cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious with your ingredients. The S'mores Cookie Bars contain gluten from the all-purpose flour and dairy from the butter. For a gluten-free version, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Always read labels carefully for any potential allergens, especially regarding the chocolate and marshmallows, which can vary by brand.
Can I customize the ingredients in my S'mores Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative! You can add crushed nuts, swap in different chocolates (like milk or white chocolate), or even incorporate peanut butter for an extra layer of flavor. The more, the merrier; just remember that each addition can alter the final texture a bit, so keep that in mind as you experiment!
Indulge in Chewy S'mores Cookie Bars That Wow Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time and then mix in the vanilla extract until smooth.
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl, then gradually incorporate it into the wet ingredients.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and graham cracker crumbs with a spatula.
- Spread half of the cookie dough mixture into the prepared baking dish for the base layer.
- Sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly over the cookie dough base.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the marshmallows, ensuring some marshmallow is visible.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
