S’mores Cookie Bars are the ultimate treat that combines the classic flavors of s’mores with the ease of a cookie bar. Imagine biting into a warm, gooey bar filled with melted chocolate and soft marshmallows, all nestled within a buttery graham cracker crust. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet after dinner. Plus, they come together in just a few simple steps! In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making these scrumptious S’mores Cookie Bars from scratch. With minimal prep time and ingredients you likely already have on hand, you’ll be able to whip these up quickly. Whether you’re reminiscing about campfire nights or looking for a new dessert favorite, these S’mores Cookie Bars will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This S’mores Cookie Bars
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for S’mores Cookie Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Use finely crushed graham crackers as the base for your crust; they provide a sweet crunch that complements the other flavors.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness to the crust; ensure it’s unsalted for better control over the overall saltiness.
- Granulated Sugar: This sweetener helps balance the flavors and contributes to the texture of the cookie bars.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar brings moisture and a hint of caramel flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- All-Purpose Flour: Use all-purpose flour as a binding agent to give structure to your cookie bars.
- Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps your cookies rise slightly during baking.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide melty pockets of chocolate in each bite; feel free to mix in milk chocolate or dark chocolate if desired.
- Mini Marshmallows: These little treats add gooey sweetness; be sure to use mini ones so they melt evenly throughout the bars.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make S’mores Cookie Bars
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well mixed. Spread this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the Base
Place the crust in your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows
Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle half of the chocolate chips evenly over it. Then scatter mini marshmallows on top followed by the remaining chocolate chips.
Step 5: Bake Again
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown and bubbly.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow your cookie bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Transfer them onto plates and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Slicing Technique: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to get clean cuts when slicing your cooled cookie bars.
- Add More Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to your base mixture.
- Topping Variations: Feel free to experiment with toppings such as chopped nuts or different types of chocolate chips.
How to Serve S’mores Cookie Bars
This S’mores Cookie Bars is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream enhances the dessert experience, balancing the sweetness of the bars.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy berries provide a tart contrast that complements the rich flavors of the S’mores Cookie Bars.
- Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A warm drink brings a cozy element, making it a perfect pairing for enjoying your cookie bars.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough for S’mores Cookie Bars up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to soften it slightly.
- Storing: Once baked, store your S’mores Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge where they can last up to a week.
- Reheating: To enjoy your cookie bars warm again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
FAQs for S’mores Cookie Bars
What are S’mores Cookie Bars?
S’mores Cookie Bars combine the classic flavors of s’mores into a convenient, chewy dessert. These bars typically include layers of graham cracker crumbs, chocolate chips, and gooey marshmallows. They are baked together to create a delicious treat that captures the essence of traditional s’mores without the need for a campfire. The bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an indulgent snack at home. Whether you’re a fan of summer camping or simply love sweet desserts, S’mores Cookie Bars offer a delightful way to enjoy these flavors year-round.
How do I store S’mores Cookie Bars?
Storing S’mores Cookie Bars properly ensures they remain fresh and delicious. After baking, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Place the cut bars in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can store them at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for longer freshness, up to one week. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing the bars. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Can I make S’mores Cookie Bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can definitely make gluten-free S’mores Cookie Bars! To do this, simply substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking. Additionally, look for gluten-free graham crackers to maintain the classic flavor profile. Most chocolate chips are naturally gluten-free, but always check the packaging to ensure there is no cross-contamination. When using these substitutes, follow the recipe closely to maintain the texture and taste of your cookie bars while keeping them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
What variations can I try with S’mores Cookie Bars?
There are many exciting variations you can try with S’mores Cookie Bars! For instance, adding peanut butter chips or caramel drizzle can enhance the flavor profile significantly. You might also consider using different types of chocolate such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate to create unique taste combinations. For a fruity twist, add sliced strawberries or bananas before baking; their sweetness pairs beautifully with marshmallows and graham crackers. Feel free to experiment with various nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor depth.
Can I use mini marshmallows instead of regular marshmallows?
Absolutely! Mini marshmallows work wonderfully in S’mores Cookie Bars and may even provide better distribution throughout the batter due to their smaller size. Using mini marshmallows allows more pieces to melt evenly during baking, resulting in an extra gooey texture that enhances each bite. If you decide on mini marshmallows, keep an eye on your bake time since they may melt faster than larger ones and could affect how gooey your cookie bars become.
How long does it take to bake S’mores Cookie Bars?
Baking time for S’mores Cookie Bars typically ranges from 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). It’s essential not to overbake them; otherwise, they may become dry instead of chewy. Start checking around the 25-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, they’re ready! Keep in mind that they will continue to firm up slightly as they cool down, so it’s okay if they seem a bit soft when you remove them from the oven.
Conclusion for S’mores Cookie Bars
In conclusion, S’mores Cookie Bars offer an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that delights everyone who tries them. These easy-to-make treats capture all the nostalgic elements of traditional s’mores in a convenient bar form that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients like graham crackers, chocolate chips, and marshmallows, anyone can whip up this delicious dessert quickly. You can customize your bars by trying gluten-free options or adding unique flavor variations like peanut butter or fruit toppings. Enjoying these cookie bars is sure to be a hit whether at family gatherings or cozy nights at home!
Print
S’mores Cookie Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
Description
S’mores Cookie Bars are a delightful dessert that marries the iconic flavors of s’mores with the convenience of cookie bars. These gooey treats feature a buttery graham cracker crust topped with melted chocolate and soft mini marshmallows, making them the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or seeking a sweet treat after dinner, these easy-to-make bars will satisfy your cravings and bring back memories of cozy campfires. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a batch ready in no time!
Ingredients
– Graham cracker crumbs
– Unsalted butter
– Granulated sugar
– Brown sugar
– All-purpose flour
– Baking powder
– Chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk)
– Mini marshmallows
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a bowl. Press into the baking dish to form the crust.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes until golden.
4. Remove from the oven, sprinkle half of the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows on top, then add the remaining chocolate chips.
5. Bake again for 15–20 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
– For extra flavor, add vanilla extract or cinnamon to the crust mixture.
– Consider using different types of chocolate chips or adding nuts for added texture.
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 2g