S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe

If you’re craving the classic campfire flavors of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers but want something a bit easier to prepare, then these S’mores Cookie Bars are perfect for you. This recipe captures the nostalgia of s’mores in a gooey, chewy cookie bar form that’s ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply indulging at home. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward preparation, these cookie bars will soon become a favorite in your baking rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This S’mores Cookie Bars recipe is perfect for those who love the comforting flavors of s’mores but want a more portable, mess-free option. Made with a buttery graham cracker base, creamy marshmallow creme, and rich chocolate chips, every bite delivers the taste of a classic s’more. Plus, these bars are incredibly easy to make, using just one bowl for the dough and requiring only a few simple steps.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress family and friends. It’s ideal for all occasions—summer picnics, school treats, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients Overview

To create these delicious S’mores Cookie Bars, you will need a few basic baking ingredients. Here’s a closer look at the key components:

• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a soft, chewy texture.
• Brown Sugar: Provides a deeper flavor and moisture to the cookie dough.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs: Gives that signature s’mores flavor and texture to the bars.
• Marshmallow Creme: The gooey center that brings these bars to life.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Balances the sweetness and gives that necessary chocolatey punch.

Ingredient List and Substitutions

• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • If you only have salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe.
• 3/4 cup (150g) packed light or dark brown sugar
  • You can substitute granulated sugar, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • For an egg-free version, use a flax egg or your preferred egg substitute.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Adds flavor depth; use a high-quality extract for the best results.
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • Swap for gluten-free flour if needed.
• 1 cup (120g) graham cracker crumbs
  • Make your own by crushing graham crackers or use gluten-free graham crackers.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Helps the bars rise slightly.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • Feel free to use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on preference.
• 1 heaping cup marshmallow creme
  • Store-bought is fine, or use 1/2 a recipe of homemade marshmallow creme.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepping Your Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring enough overhang on the sides to easily remove the bars after cooling. Set the pan aside while you prepare the dough.

2. Making the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together on medium-high speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add the egg and vanilla extract, then beat until fully combined. Don’t worry if the mixture looks slightly curdled; it will come together when the dry ingredients are added.

3. Combining Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, beating on medium speed until just combined.

4. Assembling the Cookie Bars

Press or spread about two-thirds of the graham cookie dough into the prepared pan to form a thin, even layer. Since the dough is sticky, you may need to use your hands or a spatula. Spread the marshmallow creme evenly over the dough. It may be a bit tricky since the creme is sticky, but do your best to create an even layer. Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the marshmallow layer.

Mold the remaining cookie dough into flat pieces and place them on top of the chocolate chips. Don’t worry if some marshmallow or chocolate chips are exposed; this will add to the rustic appearance of the bars.

5. Baking the Cookie Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Cooling and Cutting

Once the bars have cooled completely, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect S’mores Cookie Bars

• Handling Sticky Marshmallow Creme: Use a slightly damp spatula or spoon to help spread the marshmallow creme evenly.
• Ensuring Even Baking: Rotate your pan halfway through baking to ensure the bars bake evenly.
• Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t overmix the dough; this can result in a dense texture. Also, make sure the butter is softened, not melted, for the perfect dough consistency.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Handheld or stand mixer with paddle attachment
• Medium mixing bowl
• 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Spatula or spoon for spreading

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store, cover and keep the leftover bars at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve these S’mores Cookie Bars warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of cocoa. For a fun twist, try serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I Make Homemade Marshmallow Creme?
  Yes! Homemade marshmallow creme can be made using egg whites, sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. It’s fluffier and can provide a more authentic taste.
• Can I Freeze S’mores Cookie Bars?
  Absolutely! Freeze individually wrapped bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• How Do I Make Them Gluten-Free?
  Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend and use gluten-free graham crackers.

Conclusion

These S’mores Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on a classic campfire treat, perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share it with friends or save it for your next gathering!

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