S’mores Cookie Bars Irresistible Chewy Delight
If you love the classic campfire treat, you’re in for a sweet surprise! These S’mores Cookie Bars are irresistible, combining chewy cookie goodness with gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate chips. Imagine indulging in a dessert that captures all the flavors of a traditional s’mores, but in a simple, bar form. Join me as we dive into the ingredients, steps, and tips to create this delightful treat that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– Extra chocolate chips and graham cracker pieces for topping
Gathering the right ingredients sets the stage for your S’mores Cookie Bars. Start with softened butter for a rich, creamy base. You need both brown and granulated sugar for the perfect sweetness. Eggs add moisture and help bind the dough.
Vanilla extract gives a lovely flavor. All-purpose flour is essential for structure, while baking soda gives your bars a soft rise. Don’t skip the salt; it enhances the sweet flavors.
Graham cracker crumbs bring that classic s’mores taste, while semi-sweet chocolate chips and mini marshmallows create the gooey goodness we love. Finish with extra chocolate and graham pieces for that beautiful topping.Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This helps lift the bars out later.
2. In a large bowl, mix wet ingredients. Beat 1 cup of softened butter with 1 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer for about 2-3 minutes. The mix should become light and fluffy.
3. Add in the eggs and vanilla. Mix in 2 large eggs one at a time. After each egg, ensure it’s well blended. Finally, add 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract and mix until combined.
4. Combine the dry ingredients. In another bowl, sift together 2 1/4 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of finely crushed graham cracker crumbs. Gradually add this mix to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until no flour streaks remain.
Assembly Steps
1. Layer the cookie dough. Take half of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your lined pan. This will be your base.
2. Add the chocolate and marshmallow filling. Sprinkle a layer of 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of mini marshmallows over the base. This middle layer adds that gooey s’mores magic!
3. Top with remaining dough. Scoop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough and flatten them. Place these over the filling. It’s okay if some of the filling shows through. It makes the bars look rustic and fun!
4. Add finishing touches. Scatter some extra graham cracker pieces and chocolate chips on top for a beautiful finish.
Cooling and Serving Steps
1. Cool the bars in the pan. Once baked for 25-30 minutes, take them out of the oven. Let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Cut the bars into servings. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out onto a cutting board. Cut them into your desired size.
3. Suggestions for enjoying. For the best experience, serve these bars warm or at room temperature. Enjoy with a glass of cold milk for a perfect treat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
Softened butter is key for great cookie bars. It helps the dough mix evenly and creates a nice, chewy texture. If you forget to soften it, you can microwave it for just a few seconds.
Avoiding overmixing the dough is also important. Mix just until everything comes together. Overmixing can make the bars tough and dry.
Flavor Enhancements
Using different types of chocolate can elevate your bars. Try dark chocolate or milk chocolate for a change. You can even mix in white chocolate for a fun twist.
Adding nuts can give your bars extra crunch. Pecans or walnuts pair well with the soft marshmallows. Just chop them up and fold them into the dough.
Baking Techniques
Check for doneness after about 25 minutes. The edges should look golden brown, while the center stays soft. A toothpick test is great, but a few gooey marshmallows on it are okay!
To keep a gooey center, underbake just a little. The bars will continue to cook as they cool. They should be warm and soft when you cut into them.
Variations
Gluten-Free Options
You can make s’mores cookie bars gluten-free. Start by substituting gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour. Look for a good blend that has a similar texture. You may need to adjust the liquid a little. Sometimes, gluten-free flour absorbs more liquid.
Flavor Variations
Want a twist? Try using peanut butter chocolate chips instead of regular ones. This adds a rich, nutty flavor. You can also add flavored marshmallows. Think about caramel or strawberry. These options give your bars a unique taste and fun color.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your s’mores cookie bars with ice cream. A scoop of vanilla or chocolate is perfect. You can also serve them with sauces or toppings. Try hot fudge or caramel drizzle. These extras elevate the dessert to a whole new level.
Storage Info
How to Store S’mores Cookie Bars
To keep your s’mores cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture and keeps them chewy. You can stack the bars with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
For the best results, place them in a cool, dry area. Avoid places with heat or sunlight, as these can dry out the bars. If you have leftovers, you can also store them in the fridge for extra freshness.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some bars for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the bars cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the bars in the fridge overnight. For quick reheating, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This warms them up without drying them out.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, s’mores cookie bars stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you keep them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. In the freezer, they can stay good for up to 3 months. Just remember to check for any signs of freezer burn before eating.
With these storage tips, you can enjoy your s’mores cookie bars at their best!
FAQs
How long do S’mores Cookie Bars last?
S’mores cookie bars can last up to five days at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container to lock in freshness. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. The cold might change the texture a bit, but they still taste great!
Can these bars be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these bars a day or two before your event. Just bake them and let them cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in a container. This makes them easy to grab when you are ready to serve.
What can I substitute for marshmallows?
If you don’t have marshmallows, you can use marshmallow fluff. It gives a similar taste and texture. You could also try using caramel bits or chocolate-covered marshmallows for a fun twist. Just remember, these will change the flavor a bit.
Can I use a different kind of cookie base?
Absolutely! You can switch to a peanut butter cookie base for a nutty flavor. A chocolate cookie base also works well. Just keep the same amount of flour to keep the bars chewy and delicious.
What is the best way to reheat S’mores Cookie Bars?
To reheat your cookie bars, set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet and warm them for about five minutes. This keeps them soft and gooey. You can also microwave them for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it!
In this post, we explored how to make delicious s’mores cookie bars. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best texture. Variations and storage info help you adapt and enjoy these treats.
These cookie bars make for a fun dessert at any gathering. With a few simple tweaks, you can create your own twist. Enjoy baking and sharing this sweet experience!
![To make S’mores Cookie Bars, gather these key ingredients: - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 cup packed brown sugar - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips - 1 cup mini marshmallows - 3/4 cup crushed graham crackers - Additional chocolate chips and mini marshmallows for topping If you need swaps, here are a few ideas: - Use margarine instead of butter if needed. - Coconut sugar can replace brown sugar for a unique taste. - For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. - You can also use large marshmallows cut into smaller pieces if mini ones are not available. When choosing your ingredients, consider these tips: - Select fresh butter for the best flavor. - Look for chocolate chips with a high cocoa content; they taste richer. - Check for freshness on your baking soda and flour. - Choose mini marshmallows that are soft and fluffy for the best texture. - For crushed graham crackers, buy a brand with simple, natural ingredients for the best taste. These ingredient insights will help you create the best S’mores Cookie Bars. Happy baking! 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan. You can grease it or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. 3. In a large bowl, cream 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Beat until light and fluffy. 4. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, and mix well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. 5. In another bowl, mix together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. 6. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix. 7. Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips, 1 cup of mini marshmallows, and 3/4 cup of crushed graham crackers. Make sure they are evenly spread in the dough. 8. Take half of the cookie dough and spread it in the bottom of the pan. Press it down firmly. 9. Add a layer of chocolate chips and mini marshmallows over the dough. This will be your tasty filling. 10. With the remaining dough, dollop it over the filling. Gently spread it out, leaving some gaps for the marshmallows to peek through. 11. Top with extra chocolate chips and mini marshmallows. 12. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for golden edges and a set center. 13. Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. 14. Transfer the bars to a cutting board. Slice them into squares. 15. For the best experience, serve warm for a gooey bite or let them cool for firmer bars. You can even dust them with crushed graham crackers or serve with ice cream. This is a fun and easy way to enjoy S’mores in a cookie bar form. For the full recipe, check out the details above! To get the best texture for your S’mores cookie bars, focus on creaming the butter and sugars well. This step adds air to the dough, making it light. Don't overmix when adding the flour; this keeps the bars soft. Also, make sure to let your bars cool in the pan for a bit. This helps them set perfectly. One common mistake is overbaking. Keep an eye on the timer. The edges should look golden, but the center can be soft. Another mistake is not measuring the ingredients correctly. Use a kitchen scale when you can. Lastly, avoid pressing the dough too hard into the pan. You want a light touch for a better rise. To boost the flavor in your S’mores cookie bars, consider using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet. It adds a richer taste. You can also mix in some toasted nuts for crunch. If you love a bit of spice, a pinch of cinnamon works wonders. Lastly, consider adding a dash of sea salt on top before baking. It enhances the sweetness and richness beautifully. For the full recipe, click here: [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can elevate your S’mores cookie bars with gourmet ingredients. Try using high-quality chocolate, like dark chocolate or sea salt caramel chocolate. This gives a rich flavor that takes these bars to a new level. You can also add toasted coconut for a tropical twist. Another great idea is to sprinkle flaky sea salt on top right before serving. This adds a nice contrast to the sweetness. If you need a gluten-free option, you can easily adapt this recipe. Use gluten-free flour blends that measure cup-for-cup like regular flour. Make sure to check that your chocolate chips and graham crackers are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bars without worry. For a fun twist, add unique flavors to your S’mores cookie bars. Swirl in Nutella or peanut butter into the dough before baking. You can also mix in chopped nuts for extra crunch. Try adding crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch during the holidays. The possibilities are endless, and you can customize these bars to fit any taste! For the complete recipe, check out [Full Recipe]. To keep your S’mores Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps avoid drying out. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will stay good at room temperature for about four days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is a great option. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. You can freeze S’mores Cookie Bars for up to three months. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap tightly. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer bag or container. Label it with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temperature. To reheat S’mores Cookie Bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warm. This will help restore their gooey texture and melt the chocolate again. Enjoy them warm for the best experience! For the full recipe, check out the recipe section above. S’mores cookie bars last about five days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and soft. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to bring them to room temperature for the best taste. Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. They are great for meal prep or parties. Bake and cool them completely. Then, cut them into squares and store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them before serving. If you don't have mini marshmallows, you can use large marshmallows. Cut them into smaller pieces to fit. Alternatively, try using marshmallow fluff for a gooey texture. You can also skip marshmallows altogether and use caramel instead. This adds a different kind of sweetness. For the full recipe, visit the recipe section above. In this post, we covered how to make delicious s’mores cookie bars. We looked at the key ingredients and their best substitutes. You learned step-by-step how to prepare, bake, and serve these treats. We shared tips for perfect texture and flavor. You can also explore fun variations for added taste. Remember to store them well for freshness. With these tips, you're ready to create a tasty batch. Enjoy making and sharing your s’mores cookie bars!](https://joymealplan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/947e80de-fe9c-4bdc-b9c7-cc0f2244d142-768x768.webp)
