Get ready to dive into a sweet adventure with my S’mores Cookie Bars! These bars combine gooey chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers into one delightful treat. Whether you’re planning a party or just seeking a satisfying dessert, this recipe has you covered. Plus, I’ll share tips, variations, and storage secrets to make your baking experience easy and fun. Let’s start making these irresistible bars that everyone will love!
Ingredients
List of Essential Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
Recommended Equipment
– 9×13-inch baking pan
– Electric mixer
– Mixing bowls
When making S’mores Cookie Bars, use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Start with unsalted butter. It gives you control over salt levels. Brown sugar is key for moisture and richness. Granulated sugar adds sweetness and a nice crunch. Eggs help bind everything together. Pure vanilla extract gives a warm flavor that enhances the bars.
You also need all-purpose flour for structure. Baking soda helps them rise, making them soft. Fine sea salt balances sweetness. Chocolate chips add that gooey goodness. Mini marshmallows provide that classic s’mores taste, while graham cracker crumbs give a crunchy layer.
Having the right tools is important too. A 9×13-inch baking pan is perfect for even baking. An electric mixer saves time and makes creaming easy. Mixing bowls help keep your workspace organized.
For the full recipe, check the details above. Enjoy making this treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease the baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
Mixing Ingredients
– In a large bowl, cream together butter and both sugars.
– Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
– In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and sea salt.
Assembling the Bars
– Take half of the cookie dough and spread it in the pan.
– Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the dough layer.
– Add the reserved chocolate chips and mini marshmallows on top.
– Spread the remaining dough over the filling, letting some peek through.
– Top with extra graham cracker crumbs for added crunch.
Baking
– Bake for 25-30 minutes until edges are golden brown.
– Check if the center feels set but soft to the touch.
For the complete recipe, you can refer to the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To make the best s’mores cookie bars, avoid overmixing the dough. When you mix too much, the bars become tough. Mix just until the ingredients come together. This keeps your bars soft and chewy.
Also, ensure even baking. If your oven has hot spots, rotate the pan halfway through baking. This helps all sides bake evenly. Look for golden edges and a soft center.
Ideal Serving Suggestions
Serve these bars warm for a gooey experience. The chocolate and marshmallows melt in your mouth. You can add extra toppings for a decadent flair. Try drizzling warm chocolate sauce on top. You can also sprinkle more mini marshmallows for fun.
How to Cut and Serve
Let the bars cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting. This will help them set. Use a sharp knife for clean squares. A clean cut makes for nice-looking pieces. You can serve them warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your s’mores cookie bars with family and friends!
For more details, check the Full Recipe.
Variations
Different Flavor Options
You can easily change up the flavor of your s’mores cookie bars. One simple swap is to use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate. Dark chocolate adds a rich, bold taste that pairs perfectly with the sweet marshmallows. If you want a fun twist, add peanut butter to the cookie dough. Just mix in half a cup of creamy peanut butter with your butter and sugars. It adds a nutty flavor that kids and adults love!
Dietary Alternatives
If you need a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. This keeps the bars just as tasty without the gluten. For a vegan version, swap out the butter for coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. These changes let everyone enjoy this sweet treat!
Themed Variations
You can make your s’mores bars fit any season or holiday. For Halloween, add crushed candy corn on top for a spooky touch. For Christmas, mix in some peppermint extract or crushed candy canes for a festive flavor. In the summer, try adding fresh berries for a burst of fruit. Get creative and have fun with seasonal ingredients! Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your s’mores cookie bars fresh, store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This helps them stay soft and delicious. If it’s warm, cover them with plastic wrap. You can also refrigerate them to extend freshness. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.
Long-Term Storage
Want to save some for later? You can freeze your s’mores cookie bars. Cut them into squares and wrap each one in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. They keep well for up to three months. To enjoy again, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Shelf Life
When stored properly, s’mores cookie bars can last up to a week at room temperature. If you refrigerate them, they can last about two weeks. Freezing extends their life to three months. Just remember, the fresher they are, the better they taste. Enjoy them while they’re soft and gooey for the best experience!
FAQs
How do I know when S’mores Cookie Bars are done?
Look for golden brown edges and a set center. The top should look slightly shiny. If you press it gently, it should feel soft but not mushy. This means they are ready to come out!
Can I make S’mores Cookie Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Make the bars and let them cool completely. Cut them into squares and store in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze them for later use. Just thaw them before serving.
What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?
You can use cookie crumbs or crushed pretzels. If you want a gluten-free option, try almond flour or gluten-free cookies. These give a nice flavor and texture to your bars.
Is it possible to make S’mores Cookie Bars without eggs?
Absolutely! Use unsweetened applesauce, mashed bananas, or a flaxseed mixture. For the flaxseed, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes before adding it to your mix.
Are S’mores Cookie Bars safe to eat after a few days?
Yes, they are safe to eat for about three days at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you see any mold or strange smells, it’s best to discard them. Enjoy the Full Recipe for these delicious treats!
In this article, we covered the essential ingredients for making delicious s’mores cookie bars. We walked through the step-by-step process, provided tips for perfect texture, and explored fun variations. Remember, proper storage helps keep your treats fresh. Experiment with flavors and enjoy the gooey goodness! These bars are perfect for any occasion and will surely please everyone. Enjoy baking them and have fun sharing with friends!
