S’mores Cookie Bars

These S’mores Cookie Bars combine the classic flavors of s’mores in a delicious, chewy cookie bar form, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these bars will delight everyone with their rich chocolate and marshmallow goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookie bars in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home!
• Chewy and Delicious: The combination of graham cracker crumbs and chocolate creates a delightful texture and taste.
• Versatile Topping Options: You can customize your bars with extra chocolate chips or marshmallows based on your preference.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: This recipe is perfect for involving kids in the kitchen for some fun baking moments.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delightful S’mores Cookie Bars, gather your tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Electric mixer
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without mess.
• Electric Mixer: Saves time and ensures smooth mixing of butter and sugars.
• Baking Pan: The right size is crucial for even baking and achieving that perfect chewy texture.

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious S’mores Cookie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Base

• 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup Brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
• 2 Large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt

For the S’mores Element

• 1 cup Graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup Chocolate chips
• 1 cup Mini vegan marshmallows
• to taste Extra chocolate chips and vegan marshmallows for topping

How to Make S’mores Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking your cookie bars.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. The softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
2. Use an electric mixer to beat them until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 4: Add Graham Cracker Crumbs and Chocolate Chips

Fold in:
– The graham cracker crumbs
– The chocolate chips
– The mini vegan marshmallows

Step 5: Bake the Bars

1. Spread the cookie dough evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Top with extra chocolate chips and vegan marshmallows if desired.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Once baked:
1. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
2. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy your delicious S’mores Cookie Bars!

How to Serve S’mores Cookie Bars

S’mores Cookie Bars are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can also be served in various creative ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla or chocolate ice cream pairs beautifully with warm cookie bars, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures and flavors.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A rich chocolate sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence, making each bite even more decadent.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries brighten up the cookie bars and add a refreshing element to the sweet treat.

Served on a Dessert Platter

• Slice the cookie bars into small squares and arrange them on a decorative platter for parties or gatherings. This makes for an inviting presentation.

How to Perfect S’mores Cookie Bars

To make your S’mores Cookie Bars truly irresistible, consider these tips. They will help you achieve the ideal texture and flavor balance.

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter mixes more evenly with sugars, leading to a smoother dough.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined helps keep the bars chewy rather than tough.
• Add chocolate chips last: Gently fold in chocolate chips at the end for an even distribution without breaking them apart.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your bars in the oven; they should be golden brown but still soft in the center when done.

Best Side Dishes for S’mores Cookie Bars

S’mores Cookie Bars can be complemented by a variety of side dishes that enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Milk
   A classic pairing that balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavors in your cookie bars.
2. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and acidity, making it a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the cookie bars.
3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a creamy side that contrasts nicely with the chewy texture of S’mores Cookie Bars.
4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory balance, cutting through the sweetness of the dessert.
5. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
   The salty crunch adds texture and complements the sweet flavors of your cookie bars perfectly.
6. Whipped Cream
   Light and airy whipped cream can be dolloped on top for an extra touch of indulgence.
7. Coffee or Tea
   A warm beverage is a comforting choice that enhances the overall dessert experience while balancing sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating S’mores Cookie Bars can be easy, but a few common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough cookie bars. Stir until just combined for a chewy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Using too much flour or sugar can alter the taste and texture. Always use measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the parchment paper – Without parchment, your bars may stick to the pan. Line your baking dish with parchment for easy removal.
• Ignoring oven temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if possible.
• Not letting them cool completely – Cutting into warm bars can result in messy servings. Allow them to cool before slicing for clean edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store S’mores Cookie Bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days when refrigerated.

Freezing S’mores Cookie Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating S’mores Cookie Bars

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making S’mores Cookie Bars.

How do I make my S’mores Cookie Bars more chocolatey?

You can add extra chocolate chips or chunks into the dough before baking for a richer flavor.

Can I customize the ingredients in S’mores Cookie Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out different types of chocolate or add nuts for extra crunch.

How long do baked S’mores Cookie Bars last?

When stored properly, they last up to 5 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Are S’mores Cookie Bars suitable for parties?

Yes! They are easy to share and perfect as dessert at any gathering.

Can I make these cookie bars vegan?

You can use plant-based butter and flax eggs as substitutes for an entirely vegan version of S’mores Cookie Bars.

Final Thoughts

These S’mores Cookie Bars blend classic flavors into a chewy treat everyone will love. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying yourself, and you can easily customize them with different chocolates or add-ins. Give this recipe a try and enjoy delicious moments with family and friends!