Name: S'mores cookie bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1 cup mini marshmallows; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt

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S’mores cookie bars are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat. They combine the flavors of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows into a chewy, cookie-like bar. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Imagine biting into a soft, gooey treat that captures the essence of a s’more, all while being baked in a convenient bar form. They are great for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night at home. With their rich chocolate and sweet marshmallow layers, s’mores cookie bars are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!

The Origin of S’mores

The origin of s’mores dates back to the early 20th century. The first recorded recipe appeared in a Girl Scouts’ handbook in 1927. The name “s’mores” is a contraction of “some more,” which reflects how delicious they are! Traditionally, s’mores are made by roasting marshmallows over a campfire and sandwiching them between two graham crackers with a piece of chocolate. This classic treat has become a beloved part of camping culture and summer gatherings. Over the years, creative variations have emerged, including the s’mores cookie bars we’re discussing today. These bars bring the nostalgic flavors of s’mores into a new, easy-to-eat format that everyone can enjoy, no campfire required!

To create delicious s’mores cookie bars, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that classic s’mores flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs: These crumbs form the base of your cookie bars, giving them that signature s’mores taste.
1 cup all-purpose flour: This helps to bind the ingredients together and gives the bars structure.
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Cocoa powder adds a rich chocolate flavor, making these bars extra indulgent.
1 cup brown sugar, packed: Brown sugar adds sweetness and moisture, contributing to the chewy texture.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Butter enriches the dough and helps it hold together.
2 large eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent, ensuring your bars stay together while baking.
1 cup chocolate chips: Choose semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey burst in every bite.
1 cup mini marshmallows: These fluffy treats provide that classic s’mores experience, adding sweetness and gooeyness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making the bars even more delicious.
¼ teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

Gathering these ingredients is the first step toward making your s’mores cookie bars. Each item contributes to the overall taste and texture, ensuring a delightful treat that everyone will love. Now that you have your ingredients ready, you can move on to the preparation steps!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, you need to preheat your oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because a properly heated oven ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, you can prepare your baking pan. This way, you’ll be ready to go once your dough is mixed!

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan. You can either grease it with a little butter or line it with parchment paper. Lining the pan makes it easier to lift out the bars later. If you choose to grease it, make sure to cover all corners to prevent sticking. A well-prepared pan is key to achieving perfect s’mores cookie bars!

Now it’s time to mix your cookie dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, brown sugar, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are well mixed. Then, pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract. Add the eggs and mix everything until a thick dough forms. The dough should feel slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed. This texture is what makes your s’mores cookie bars chewy and delicious!

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Once your dough is ready, it’s time to layer the ingredients. Take about two-thirds of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Use your fingers or the back of a measuring cup to make it compact. After that, sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the crust. Then, distribute the mini marshmallows on top of the chocolate chips. This layering creates that classic s’mores experience. Finally, crumble the remaining dough over the marshmallows and chocolate chips. It’s okay if some of the filling is visible; this will create a lovely layered effect!

Now, it’s time to bake! Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges; they should be set and golden brown. The center may look a bit soft, but don’t worry! It will firm up as it cools. The aroma of chocolate and marshmallows will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Step 6: Cool and Cut

After baking, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes. This cooling time is important for the bars to set properly. If you used parchment paper, lift the bars out of the pan for easier cutting. Once cooled, cut them into squares or rectangles. Now, your s’mores cookie bars are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm or at room temperature for a delightful treat.

Choosing the Right Chocolate

When it comes to making s’mores cookie bars, the type of chocolate you choose can make a big difference. You can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips, depending on your taste preference. Semi-sweet chocolate offers a rich flavor that balances well with the sweetness of the marshmallows. On the other hand, milk chocolate provides a creamier, sweeter taste. If you want to get creative, consider mixing different types of chocolate! Dark chocolate can add a nice contrast to the sweetness, while white chocolate can give a unique twist. No matter what you choose, make sure the chocolate is high quality for the best flavor.

After you’ve baked and enjoyed your s’mores cookie bars, you might have some leftovers. To keep them fresh, store the bars in an airtight container. This will help maintain their chewy texture and prevent them from drying out. You can keep them at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste. You can also freeze the bars for up to three months. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, and they’ll be just as delicious as the day you made them!

If you or someone you know has a gluten intolerance, you can still enjoy delicious s’mores cookie bars! To make gluten-free versions, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Many brands offer blends that work well in baking. Additionally, ensure that your graham cracker crumbs are gluten-free. There are several brands available that make gluten-free graham crackers, so you won’t miss out on that classic flavor. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, allowing you to create a tasty treat that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions!

For those following a vegan lifestyle, making s’mores cookie bars is still possible! Start by replacing the eggs with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture. To do this, mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about five minutes until it thickens. Next, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Make sure to choose dairy-free chocolate chips and vegan marshmallows to keep the recipe completely plant-based. With these simple swaps, you can enjoy scrumptious vegan s’mores cookie bars that are just as delightful as the original!

Absolutely! You can make s’mores cookie bars ahead of time, which is perfect for parties or gatherings. After baking, let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to five days. If you want to prepare them even earlier, you can freeze the unbaked dough. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the fridge overnight and follow the baking instructions. This way, you can enjoy fresh s’mores cookie bars whenever you want!

To keep your leftover s’mores cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their chewy texture and prevents them from drying out. You can keep them at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to three months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, and they’ll taste just as delicious as the day you made them!

Yes, you can definitely use different types of chocolate in your s’mores cookie bars! The choice of chocolate can greatly affect the flavor. Semi-sweet chocolate chips are a classic choice, providing a rich taste that balances well with the sweetness of the marshmallows. If you prefer a sweeter treat, milk chocolate chips are a great option. For a more intense flavor, try dark chocolate chips. You can even mix different types of chocolate for a unique twist! Just make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best results.

If you need a substitute for graham crackers, there are several options available. You can use crushed digestive biscuits, which have a similar texture and flavor. Another option is to use vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for a different taste. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, consider using gluten-free graham crackers or even almond flour mixed with a bit of sugar. Each substitute will give your s’mores cookie bars a unique twist while still capturing that delicious s’mores essence!