Are you ready to indulge in a sweet treat that everyone loves? S'mores Cookie Bars combine all the classic s'mores flavors into one delicious dessert. With layers of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers, these bars are simple to make and perfect for all ages. Join me as I guide you through a fun and easy recipe that will make your taste buds dance! Let's get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: These S'mores cookie bars combine the rich taste of chocolate, the sweetness of marshmallows, and the crunch of graham crackers, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these cookie bars are perfect for bakers of all skill levels. You can whip them up in no time!
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into squares and serve at parties, gatherings, or picnics. These bars are sure to impress and satisfy a crowd!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, such as nuts or different types of chocolate, to make these cookie bars your own!
Ingredients
S'mores Cookie Bars need simple, tasty ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- Additional chocolate chips and marshmallows for topping
Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect cookie bars. The unsalted butter adds richness and helps the bars stay moist. The sugars give sweetness and help the bars rise. Eggs provide structure, while vanilla adds a nice flavor.
The flour is the base of the dough and gives it a chewy texture. Baking soda helps the bars puff up as they bake. Salt balances the sweetness, making the flavor pop.
Chocolate chips and mini marshmallows give that classic s'mores taste. Lastly, graham cracker crumbs add crunch and that signature s'mores vibe.
Feel free to get creative! You can add different flavors or toppings. Enjoy making your S'mores Cookie Bars with these ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This makes for easy removal later.
Mixing the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until it’s light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract until everything is combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mix into the wet mix until just combined.
Assembling the Cookie Bars
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs. Make sure they are evenly mixed in.
- Spread half of the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan. Smooth it out to cover the bottom.
- Sprinkle a layer of extra chocolate chips and marshmallows over the dough in the pan.
- Crumble the rest of the cookie dough on top, letting some chocolate chips and marshmallows peek through.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for golden brown edges. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get smooth cookie bars, start by creaming the butter and sugars. Use a mixer and blend until light and fluffy. This step adds air, which helps the bars rise. Mix the butter and sugars for about three minutes. Be careful not to overmix the dough after adding flour. Overmixing makes the bars tough. Stop mixing as soon as you see no flour.
Serving Suggestions
Present your S'mores Cookie Bars in a fun way. Cut them into squares and place them on a colorful plate. For extra flair, add more mini marshmallows and chocolate chips on top. A drizzle of chocolate sauce makes them look fancy. You can also serve them warm with vanilla ice cream on the side. The warm and cold mix is delightful!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people underbake or overbake their cookie bars. Keep an eye on the time. Bake them for 25-30 minutes, and check for golden edges. Use a toothpick to test doneness. Insert it into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Make sure to evenly distribute your chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs. This ensures every bite is tasty!
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better incorporation.
- Don't Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep your cookie bars soft and chewy instead of tough.
- Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps to prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bars in the oven; they can quickly go from perfectly baked to overly done.
Variations
Flavor Enhancements
You can change the flavor of S'mores cookie bars easily. Try using different types of chocolate. Milk chocolate gives a sweet taste. Dark chocolate adds a rich flavor. White chocolate offers a creamy twist.
Adding nuts can also make these bars special. Walnuts or pecans add crunch and taste. Shredded coconut brings a tropical feel. Mix and match your favorite flavors to find the best one for you!
Dietary Adjustments
Making these bars gluten-free is simple. Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour. These options taste great and keep the bars soft.
If you need a vegan version, swap butter for coconut oil. Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This makes a perfect egg substitute!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your S'mores cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their soft texture. Layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent sticking. You can keep them at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for about a week.
Freezing Tips
Freezing S'mores cookie bars is simple. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, microwave for a few seconds. This will bring back their gooey, delicious goodness.
FAQs
How long do S'mores Cookie Bars last?
S'mores cookie bars can last up to five days when stored properly. To keep them fresh, place the bars in an airtight container. This helps maintain their soft texture and rich flavor. If you want the bars to last longer, you can freeze them. They can stay good in the freezer for up to three months. Just remember to wrap them well in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
Can I make these bars in advance?
Yes, you can easily make these bars in advance. Prepare the cookie dough a day before and store it in the fridge. This helps the flavors develop more. You can also bake the bars ahead of time. After baking, let them cool completely before storing them. They taste great even after a day or two. Just reheat them slightly in the oven or microwave before serving for that fresh-baked taste.
What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?
If you don't have graham cracker crumbs, don't worry! You can use crushed cookies, like digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers. These options add a nice twist to the flavor. You can also try using crushed pretzels for a salty crunch. Each substitution offers a new taste, making your bars unique. Be creative and find what you like best!
You've learned how to make delicious S'mores Cookie Bars from scratch. We covered the key ingredients and how to mix them perfectly. I shared tips to get the best texture and avoid common mistakes. You also found fun ways to change the recipe. Remember to store your bars well for long-lasting flavor. Now, go ahead and enjoy your tasty treats!
