S’mores Cookie Bars

S’mores Cookie Bars combine all the nostalgic flavors of a classic campfire treat with the ease and comfort of a chewy cookie. Imagine biting into a soft, gooey layer of melted chocolate complemented by a delightful hint of toasted marshmallows wrapped in a crispy graham cracker crust. These bars are bursting with flavor and comfort that brings back memories of warm summer nights, making them worth every effort to bake. They make for the perfect treat to share with family and friends or to indulge in during a cozy evening at home.

This recipe is easy to follow with simple, step-by-step directions that guarantee success, even for novice bakers. You’ll be amazed at how quick and delightful it is to whip up these sweet treats right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons why S’mores Cookie Bars will become a staple in your baking repertoire. First and foremost, they require minimal prep time, making them great for unexpected guests or last-minute dessert needs. Mix everything in one bowl and avoid complex techniques.

Family-friendly and fun to make, this recipe invites everyone to join in. Kids love to help out with pouring ingredients, and they can even enjoy the spoils of their hard work, creating precious memories. Plus, the minimal ingredients list is likely filled with pantry staples. You’ll likely only need a couple of items that you might not have on hand, making it a convenient choice!

Ingredients for S’mores Cookie Bars

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature — adding the perfect richness to the bars.
3/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar — contributing a warm caramel flavor that complements the other ingredients.
1 large egg, at room temperature — binding everything together for a chewy texture.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract — adding a hint of sweetness and rich aroma.
1 cup all-purpose flour — ensuring the perfect structure of the bars.
1 cup graham cracker crumbs — giving a nod to the traditional s’mores flavor.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder — aiding in the rise of these delicious bars.
1/4 teaspoon salt — enhancing the sweet flavors and balancing the overall taste.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips — essential for that rich chocolatey goodness.
1 heaping cup marshmallow crème — providing the ultimate gooey, sweet finish.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare an 8-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy for about 2-3 minutes.
Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, blending until fully incorporated and delightful.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined; avoid overmixing.
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter, distributing their richness throughout the mixture.
Press half of the cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared pan. Spread the marshmallow crème over this layer and drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned, and the center looks set.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out with the parchment overhang and cutting into squares.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your S’mores Cookie Bars, consider drizzling some melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of indulgence. For texture, sprinkle crushed graham crackers over the marshmallow layer before adding the top cookie dough. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding peanut butter or nutella mixed with the marshmallow crème for a unique twist.

Make sure to keep an eye on the baking time, as you want them to be perfectly golden without burning the edges. If you like a stronger graham cracker taste, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with more graham crackers for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

S’mores Cookie Bars shine on their own but would pair excellently with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy ice cream balances the warmth of the baked bars and adds a delightful contrast of textures. You could also enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy night, or serve them with a refreshing cold glass of milk.

For a charming presentation, stack the bars in a small picnic basket and serve them at outdoor gatherings or parties. They also make for wonderful packaging when wrapped neatly and tied with twine for gift-giving.

Nutritional Information

Indulging in S’mores Cookie Bars is a delightful experience, but it is always good to be mindful of nutritional intake. Each bar contains approximately 200 calories. The total composition includes a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and a touch of protein. When sharing with loved ones, these bars are best enjoyed in moderation, making them perfect for fulfilling your sweet tooth without going overboard.

Storing Tips & Variations for S’mores Cookie Bars

These S’mores Cookie Bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to protect them from freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer.

If you’re looking for healthier variations, you can swap some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or use sugar substitutes to reduce the overall sugar content. For a twist on the classic s’mores flavor, try adding crushed peppermint candies during the holiday season for a festive touch!

Conclusion for S’mores Cookie Bars

Don’t wait to dive into these S’mores Cookie Bars! Their delightful combination of rich chocolate, fluffy marshmallow, and buttery graham cracker crust will have you reaching for another piece. Perfect for gatherings or simply for a quiet night in, this recipe has all the hallmarks of a dessert that will create lasting memories. Hurry to bake a batch, and your friends and family will surely thank you!

FAQs

1. Can I use mini marshmallows instead of marshmallow crème?
Yes, you can! Just ensure you mix them well into the cookie dough and adjust the baking time if needed.

2. How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?
The edges should be golden brown, and the center should appear set and not jiggly.

3. Can I make these S’mores Cookie Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

4. What’s the best way to cut these bars?
Use a sharp knife and make sure the bars are fully cooled before cutting for clean slices.

5. Are there any nut-free options for this recipe?
Yes! All ingredients in this recipe are nut-free, but always check for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.