S’mores Cookie Bars Perfectly Chewy and Delicious

If you crave a treat that combines chewy cookie goodness with classic s’mores flavors, you’re in the right place! In this blog post, I’ll show you how to make S’mores Cookie Bars that are perfectly chewy and delicious. You’ll discover easy steps, helpful tips, and delightful variations to make this sweet treat your own. Let’s dive into the tasty world of these mouth-watering bars!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for S’mores Cookie Bars
To make delicious s’mores cookie bars, gather the following items:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
– 1 cup brown sugar, tightly packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup chocolate chunks (for topping)
Notes on Ingredient Quality
Using high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh butter gives a rich taste. Opt for real vanilla extract instead of imitation for the best flavor. Choose chocolate chips that you love because they shine in these bars. For the graham crackers, select whole or crushed ones with no added sugars. Always check the expiration dates on all your items to ensure freshness.
Possible Substitutions
You can make swaps if needed. Try coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version. Use any nut butter in place of butter for a unique twist. If you want gluten-free bars, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Dark chocolate can replace semi-sweet chocolate for a richer flavor. These changes keep the spirit of s’mores alive while offering new tastes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the bars bake evenly. Next, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. Let the parchment hang over the edges for easy removal later.
In a mixing bowl, cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes. The mix should look light and fluffy.
Now, add in 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well mixed. In another bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt.
Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mix. Mix on low speed until just combined; overmixing can make the bars tough. Gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs. This adds that classic s’mores flavor.
Baking Instructions
Spread half of the cookie dough into the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly to create a solid base. Evenly sprinkle 1 cup of mini marshmallows and 1/2 cup of chocolate chunks on top.
Spoon the rest of the dough over the filling and gently press it down. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The edges should turn golden brown, and the center should feel firm when touched lightly.
Cooling and Serving Tips
After baking, take the dish out of the oven. Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out and place them on a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares.
For a fun touch, drizzle melted chocolate on top and serve with fresh marshmallows and graham cracker pieces. This makes the experience feel just like a traditional s’mores gathering. Enjoy your chewy, delicious s’mores cookie bars!
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Perfect Cookie Bars
To make the best s’mores cookie bars, follow these tips. First, use room-temperature ingredients. This helps create a smooth batter. Second, mix the butter and sugars well. Aim for a light and fluffy texture. This step adds air to your cookie bars. Third, don’t overmix the dough. Mix just until you see no flour. Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Lastly, check the baking time. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on them. Look for golden edges and a set center.
Storing Leftovers Properly
If you have any cookie bars left, store them right to keep them fresh. Place the bars in an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out. You can also layer parchment paper between the bars. This keeps them from sticking together. Store the container in a cool, dry place. If you want to keep them longer, put them in the fridge. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before enjoying again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make a few common mistakes when baking cookie bars. One mistake is not measuring ingredients carefully. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy. Another mistake is skipping the parchment paper. This makes it hard to lift the bars out. Also, avoid cutting the bars too soon. Let them cool completely first. Cutting them too early can lead to messy pieces. Lastly, don’t forget to mix in the graham cracker crumbs. This is key for that s’mores flavor. For the full recipe, check out the section above.
Variations
Add-ins and Flavor Modifications
You can change up your s’mores cookie bars in fun ways. Try adding peanut butter chips for a nutty taste. You can also mix in crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture. If you love coconut, add shredded coconut to the dough. For a fun twist, use flavored chocolate, like caramel or mint. Each of these add-ins brings a new flavor to the classic s’mores experience.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need gluten-free options, it’s easy to modify the recipe. Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works for baking. Check that your graham cracker crumbs are gluten-free too. Many brands offer gluten-free versions, so you can still enjoy those classic flavors. This way, everyone can savor these delicious cookie bars without worry.
Alternative Toppings and Pairings
You can make your s’mores cookie bars even more exciting with different toppings. Instead of just chocolate chunks, try using white chocolate or butterscotch chips. You can also sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top for a savory touch that contrasts the sweetness. Serve your cookie bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat that is hard to resist. Each topping and pairing adds a new layer of flavor, making your dessert even more special. For the full recipe, check out S’mores Cookie Bars.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing S’mores Cookie Bars
To keep your S’mores Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them chewy and moist. If you leave them out, they may dry out. Layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent sticking. This way, you can grab a piece without ruining the others.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze S’mores Cookie Bars, too! First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
How Long Do They Last?
When stored properly at room temperature, S’mores Cookie Bars last about a week. If you keep them in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks. Remember, the longer they sit, the more they may lose that chewy goodness. Enjoy them while they are at their best!
FAQs
How do I make S’mores Cookie Bars from scratch?
To make S’mores Cookie Bars from scratch, follow these simple steps. Start by creaming butter and sugars until fluffy. Then, add an egg and vanilla, mixing well. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet mix. Fold in chocolate chips and graham cracker crumbs. Spread half the dough in a greased pan, add mini marshmallows and chocolate chunks, and top with the rest of the dough. Bake for 25-30 minutes. This method brings out the best flavors. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above.
Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use any type of chocolate you like. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate all work well. Each type will change the taste of your bars. Dark chocolate gives a richer taste, while milk chocolate adds sweetness. You can mix different types too. Just remember to chop the chocolate into small pieces for even melting.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat leftover S’mores Cookie Bars, use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes. This helps keep them chewy. If you prefer the microwave, heat a single bar for 10-15 seconds. This method warms it quickly and keeps it soft. Enjoy your delicious treat!
S’mores cookie bars are easy to make and fun to share. We covered all the ingredients, steps, and tips needed for perfect bars. Remember, quality ingredients make a big difference. Keep your bars fresh by storing them right. Explore variations to suit your taste. Whether you’re a baking pro or a novice, these bars are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite of these sweet treats!
