Are you ready to indulge in a fun twist on a classic treat? S’mores Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of gooey chocolate, soft marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers. This easy recipe will spark joy and satisfy your sweet tooth. With simple ingredients and step-by-step guidance, you’ll whip up these delicious bars in no time. Get your apron on and let’s make the best dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
To make S’mores Cookie Bars, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Each one plays a big role in creating that tasty flavor we all love.
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– Additional chocolate chips and marshmallows for topping
The butter, sugars, and eggs create a rich base. The dry ingredients, like flour, baking soda, and salt, give structure. Flavor add-ins include chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs. These all come together for that classic s’mores taste. Check out the Full Recipe for more details on how to mix these ingredients for the perfect treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps with easy removal later.
2. In a large bowl, add 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and fluffy.
3. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time. Then add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix well to combine.
4. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually mix this dry blend into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Layering the Bars
1. Pour half of the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly and press it down gently.
2. Scatter 1 cup of mini marshmallows over the dough layer, followed by 1 cup of chocolate chips. This makes it extra gooey!
3. Crumble the remaining cookie dough evenly over the marshmallows and chocolate. Lightly press it down to form a top crust.
Baking and Cooling
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and the edges will pull away from the pan.
2. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift them out and cut into squares.
For more details, check the Full Recipe. Enjoy your tasty S’mores Cookie Bars!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect S’mores Cookie Bars
To bake the best S’mores cookie bars, timing and temperature are key. I recommend baking them at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Watch for a golden top with edges pulling away from the pan. This means they are ready!
Butter consistency also matters. Use softened butter for a fluffy texture. Cold butter will make the bars dense and hard. Make sure it is at room temperature before mixing.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out ingredients to fit your taste. For chocolate, try dark chocolate or even butterscotch chips. You can mix it up! If you want a twist, use flavored marshmallows like strawberry or caramel.
If you need gluten-free options, use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour. For graham crackers, look for gluten-free brands available in stores. These swaps keep your treat tasty and inclusive for everyone.
For the full recipe, check the recipe section above.
Variations
Flavor Combinations
You can make S’mores Cookie Bars even better with fun flavors! Try adding peanut butter or Nutella. These spreads give a rich taste and creamy texture. Just swirl them into the dough before adding the other mix-ins. You can also switch up the chocolate. Use white chocolate or dark chocolate for a twist. Each type adds its own flavor, making your bars unique and tasty.
Seasonal Twists
Seasonal ingredients can change the game! In fall, add pumpkin spice to your dough. This gives a warm, cozy flavor. During the holidays, try using peppermint. Crushed candy canes can make your bars festive. These special touches keep your S’mores Cookie Bars exciting throughout the year. You can impress friends and family with these fun variations!
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your S’mores Cookie Bars fresh, store them properly. You can keep them at room temperature in an airtight container. This way, they stay soft and tasty for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, it’s best to refrigerate them. In the fridge, they can last for about a week.
For longer shelf life, freezing is a great option. Cut the bars into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to label the bag with the date. This ensures you know when to enjoy them again.
Reheating Suggestions
When you’re ready to eat your S’mores Cookie Bars, reheating can restore their gooey texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes. This warms them up without drying them out.
For a fun serving idea, drizzle some melted chocolate on top after reheating. You can also sprinkle a few extra mini marshmallows for that fresh s’mores effect. Enjoy your bars warm with a cold glass of milk for the best experience!
FAQs
Common Questions
How do I keep S’mores Cookie Bars from getting too dry?
To keep your S’mores Cookie Bars soft, make sure not to overbake them. Bake just until the top is golden brown. You can also store them in an airtight container to lock in moisture. Adding extra mini marshmallows can help keep the bars chewy, too.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before pressing it into the pan.
What toppings can I add to customize my bars?
You can get creative with toppings! Try adding crushed pretzels for a salty crunch or drizzle some caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Nuts, like walnuts or pecans, can add a nice texture too. Get fun and make your bars unique!
User Feedback
Many people love S’mores Cookie Bars! Reviews often praise the gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate. Some home bakers have said they added peanut butter for a twist, and it worked great. I also like to share my own tweaks, like using dark chocolate chips for a deeper flavor.
Full Recipe
For the complete recipe details of S’mores Cookie Bars, check out the Full Recipe.
In this blog post, we’ve explored how to make perfect S’mores Cookie Bars. You learned about the key ingredients, like butter and chocolate chips, and the step-by-step method for layering and baking. I shared tips for achieving the best texture and suggested fun variations and storage techniques.
Enjoy making these bars for yourself or to share. With a few creative twists and careful attention, you’ll have a treat that’s a hit every time. Get ready to indulge in deliciousness!
