Introduction to S’mores Cookie Bars
If you have ever craved the classic flavors of a campfire s'more but wanted a quicker and easier way to enjoy them, look no further than s’mores cookie bars. These delightful treats combine all the nostalgic goodness of graham crackers, melted chocolate, and fluffy marshmallow, but in a cookie bar form that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Why S’mores Cookie Bars are the Ultimate Treat
What makes these bars truly irresistible? For starters, the combination of chewy brown sugar cookie dough and buttery graham cracker crumbs creates a satisfying texture that complements the gooey marshmallow layer perfectly. The chocolate chips contribute not just flavor but also that delightful melty goodness we all love. You can use either store-bought marshmallow crème for convenience or whip up your own at home for an extra touch of sweet charm.
These bars are not just easy to make but are also versatile. You can easily double the recipe to serve a crowd or store some for later. Plus, they’re an excellent way to bring a bit of summer into your kitchen any time of year! So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in these s’mores cookie bars that will surely impress everyone around you. Curious about the full recipe? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for S’mores Cookie Bars
When it comes to creating those irresistible S’mores Cookie Bars, using the right ingredients is key for that perfect blend of flavor and texture. Let’s break it down!
Essential Ingredients for Baking
To get started, you'll need:
- Unsalted butter (½ cup): Softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
- Brown sugar (¾ cup): Packed to enhance sweetness and moisture.
- Large egg (1): At room temperature; it helps bind everything together.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): This adds a delightful aroma and depth of flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): For structure, make sure to spoon & level it!
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 cup): About 8 full-sheet crackers, integral for that classic S’mores taste.
- Baking powder (½ teaspoon): To help the bars rise.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances sweetness.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Because what’s a S’mores treat without chocolate?
- Marshmallow creme (1 heaping cup): Either store-bought or homemade for that gooey middle.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Feel free to customize your S’mores Cookie Bars with optional add-ins, such as:
- Nutty goodness: Chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy twist.
- Coconut flakes: A subtle tropical flavor that complements chocolate perfectly.
- Additional chocolate: Mix in white chocolate chips or even butterscotch chips for variety.
- Seasonal spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can give your bars a warm, cozy touch.
Now you're well-equipped to whip up your S’mores Cookie Bars that will impress friends and family alike! What's your favorite variation?
Preparing S’mores Cookie Bars
When you're in the mood for something sweet, there's nothing like the nostalgic taste of s’mores. This delightful twist on the classic combines gooey marshmallow, rich chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers into scrumptious cookie bars. Ready to dive into the sweet adventure of making these S’mores Cookie Bars? Let’s get started!
Gather Your Ingredients
The first step involves gathering your ingredients. Here's what you'll need for those heavenly bars:
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened)
- Brown sugar (¾ cup, packed)
- Egg (1 large, at room temperature)
- Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp)
- All-purpose flour (1 cup, spooned & leveled)
- Graham cracker crumbs (1 cup, or about 8 full sheets)
- Baking powder (½ tsp)
- Salt (¼ tsp)
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup)
- Marshmallow creme (1 heaping cup, store-bought or homemade)
Now that you’ve got everything together, the fun begins!
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, grab your unsalted butter and brown sugar. Using a handheld mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream these together on medium-high speed for about three minutes. It should turn light and fluffy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides to ensure all the butter gets well incorporated. Adding the egg and vanilla extract will round out the wet ingredients, so blend until everything is combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together
Grab another bowl for the dry ingredients. Combine the flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt. Give them a good whisk to ensure everything is well mixed. This step is key for an even texture in your S’mores Cookie Bars.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
With your wet and dry mixtures ready, it’s time to combine them. Pour the dry ingredients into your butter-sugar mixture and mix on medium speed until just incorporated. Don't overdo it; a few small lumps are okay.
Assemble the Layers
Now for the fun part—assembly! Press about two-thirds of the cookie dough into your prepared baking pan. It doesn’t need to be perfect, just a thin layer to start. Next, spread the marshmallow creme over the dough. This part can be sticky, so take your time. Finally, sprinkle the chocolate chips on top, then mold the remaining cookie dough into flat pieces and layer them over the chocolate chips. It’s alright if some chocolate chips and marshmallow are still visible—that's what makes them good!
Bake to Perfection
Now, pop the pan into your preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will smell divine, drawing everyone’s attention!
Cool and Cut the Bars
Once baked, let your S’mores Cookie Bars cool completely on a wire rack. This will make cutting them much easier. Once cool, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut them into squares. Enjoy the delightful chewy texture with the crunchy bits and gooey goodness!
Now, you’ve got a batch of luxurious S’mores Cookie Bars ready to impress your friends or enjoy with a cozy movie night! These bars are sure to be a hit, and they hold up well for several days—if they last that long!
Variations on S’mores Cookie Bars
Add Peanut Butter for a Twist
If you're a peanut butter lover, why not elevate your S’mores Cookie Bars by mixing in some creamy peanut butter? Simply replace a quarter of the butter with peanut butter for a delightful twist on the classic flavor. You’ll achieve that perfect sweet and salty combo that’s both nostalgic and exciting!
Try Different Types of Chocolate
Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different types of chocolate in your S’mores Cookie Bars. For a richer taste, go for dark chocolate chips, or even try white chocolate for a sweeter twist. You can mix and match: consider adding chocolate chunks alongside standard chips for a delightful textural contrast.
For more inspiration, check out this post about chocolate variations that dives deeper into how chocolate can transform your baked goods!
Using these variations can create a unique dessert experience, ensuring that every batch feels fresh and exciting. Which combination will you try first?
Cooking Tips and Notes for S’mores Cookie Bars
Baking Pan Recommendations
For S’mores Cookie Bars, an 8-inch square baking pan is ideal, but a 9-inch square pan also works if you're looking for a thinner bar. Lining your pan with parchment paper is a game-changer, making it much easier to lift out and cut your bars once they cool.
Storing Leftover Bars
Once the deliciousness settles, you may find yourself with leftovers. Simply cover your S’mores Cookie Bars and store them at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to save some for later, freeze them! Just cut them into squares, layer between parchment paper, and pop them in a freezer-friendly container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to indulge again.
For more baking tips, check out the Kitchen Conversations blog for expert baking advice!
Serving Suggestions for S’mores Cookie Bars
Pair with Ice Cream
One of the best ways to enjoy your S’mores Cookie Bars is by pairing them with a scoop of your favorite ice cream, such as vanilla or chocolate. The combination of warm cookie bars with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that is hard to resist. For an extra touch, drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent treat.
Perfect for Parties and Gatherings
S’mores Cookie Bars are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration. Cut them into bite-sized squares, and serve them on a platter for an easy dessert option. They also make great additions to a dessert table alongside other treats. Plus, you can offer toppings like sprinkles or whipped cream to let guests customize their own slice of sweet happiness! Check out more party dessert ideas for inspiration.
Time Breakdown for S’mores Cookie Bars
Preparation Time
The prep work for these tasty S’mores Cookie Bars takes about 15 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing the cookie dough. It’s a simple process—perfect for young professionals looking for a quick dessert fix.
Baking Time
Once you pop your bars in the oven, you'll need about 25-30 minutes of baking time. During this period, your kitchen will fill with the mouthwatering aroma of toasty graham crackers and melted chocolate. Can you think of a better way to make your home feel cozy?
Total Time
In total, you're looking at around 3 hours before you can dig in. This includes cooling time, which is crucial for the bars to set properly. But don't worry! Most of this time is waiting for the delicious reward. Whether it’s for a gathering or a late-night snack, these S’mores Cookie Bars are well worth the wait.
Remember to check the full recipe to make sure you have everything you need before you start!
Nutritional Facts for S’mores Cookie Bars
Calories per Serving
With each delicious serving of S’mores Cookie Bars containing approximately 200 calories, these treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without going overboard. They strike a great balance between taste and indulgence, making them a cozy snack for any occasion.
Sugar Content
Each bar packs about 12 grams of sugar, mainly from the combined sweetness of the brown sugar and marshmallow creme. While it’s a delightful treat, it’s wise to enjoy them in moderation, especially if you’re keeping an eye on sugar intake.
Protein Level
These cookie bars offer around 2 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the inclusion of egg and chocolate chips. Pairing them with a glass of milk or a yogurt-based dip can enhance your protein intake while making for a fun, satisfying snack.
If you want to dive deeper into the nutritional side, check out the USDA FoodData Central for essential insights here. Remember, it's all about enjoying these delicious S'mores Cookie Bars in moderation and alongside a balanced diet!
FAQs About S’mores Cookie Bars
Can I Use Different Types of Crumbs?
Absolutely! While the classic choice of graham cracker crumbs gives S’mores Cookie Bars their signature flavor, you can experiment with alternatives. Consider using crushed digestive biscuits for a slightly different taste, or even vanilla wafer crumbs for a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if needed!
How Do I Make Homemade Marshmallow Creme?
Making your own marshmallow creme is simple and incredibly rewarding. Start by mixing egg whites, sugar, and corn syrup until fluffy. A great recipe can be found here. You only need a half batch, which is perfect to use in your S’mores Cookie Bars while leaving some for indoor toasting or snacking!
What Should I Do With Leftover Bars?
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (though we can't guarantee that!), store your S’mores Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For long-term storage, consider freezing them for up to three months. Just layer them with parchment paper and enjoy a sweet treat whenever you crave it!
Conclusion on S’mores Cookie Bars
In summary, s’mores cookie bars are the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these delights will impress friends and family alike. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, these bars are sure to bring a smile to any face!
For more mouthwatering dessert ideas, check out these resources: Sally's Baking Addiction for great tips and Food Network for recipe inspiration!
S’mores Cookie Bars
Equipment
- 8-inch square baking pan
- Stand Mixer
- medium bowl
- whisk
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup brown sugar packed light or dark
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour spooned & leveled
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs about 8 full-sheet graham crackers
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 heaping cup marshmallow creme store-bought “Fluff” or ½ recipe of homemade marshmallow creme
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides to easily remove the bars when cooled.
- In a large bowl using handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter and brown sugar together on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat until combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
- Whisk the flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl. Pour the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and beat on medium speed until combined.
- Press/spread ⅔ of the graham cookie dough into the prepared pan. Spread the marshmallow creme evenly on top. Layer chocolate chips evenly on top. Mold the remaining cookie dough into flat pieces and layer on top of the chocolate chips.
- Bake the bars for 25-30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack. Cool bars completely.
- Lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang on the sides. Cut into squares.
- Cover and store leftover bars at room temperature for up to 1 week.
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