The Best s’mores cookie bars that melt in your mouth!

The Best s’mores cookie bars

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delicious. That’s why I’m excited to share with you my recipe for the best s’mores cookie bars! These delightful treats are not only quick to make, but they also bring the nostalgic flavors of campfire s’mores right into your kitchen. Imagine soft, chewy cookie bars packed with gooey chocolate and fluffy marshmallows. Perfect for a family dessert or a sweet surprise for friends, these bars are sure to impress without taking up your entire day!

Why You’ll Love This The Best s’mores cookie bars

These s’mores cookie bars are a game-changer for busy days! They come together in just 45 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying treat. The combination of soft cookie, rich chocolate, and gooey marshmallows creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a family favorite!

Ingredients The Best s’mores cookie bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating the best s’mores cookie bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture to the bars. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Brown sugar: It gives a deep, caramel-like flavor and helps keep the bars chewy.
• Granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
• Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add moisture, making the bars soft.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it more aromatic.
• All-purpose flour: This is the base of the cookie bars, providing structure and stability.
• Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the bars rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Chocolate chips: These are the stars of the show, adding melty chocolate goodness in every bite.
• Mini marshmallows: They bring that classic s’mores flavor and a delightful gooey texture.
• Graham cracker crumbs: These add a crunchy texture and the signature taste of s’mores.

For those looking to customize, consider adding more mini marshmallows on top for extra gooeyness or using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make The Best s’mores cookie bars

Making the best s’mores cookie bars is a delightful journey that’s easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of gooey, chocolatey goodness in no time!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for even baking. While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure your cookie bars come out easily.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your bars a light and fluffy texture. It’s like giving your cookies a little love!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add moisture, making your cookie bars soft and chewy. It’s the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth experience!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients are essential for structure and stability. They work together to create the perfect base for your s’mores cookie bars.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to tough bars. You want to keep that soft, chewy texture that everyone loves!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate, Marshmallows, and Graham Crackers

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs. These ingredients are what give your cookie bars that classic s’mores flavor. It’s like a campfire treat in every bite!

Step 7: Spread and Bake

Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking pan. Make sure it’s level for even baking. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. The aroma will have your family gathering in the kitchen!

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them set. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature butter for easier creaming.
• Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the bars set properly.
• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
• Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary.
• Store leftover bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Equipment Needed

• 9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for even baking; you can use a glass or metal pan.
• Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining dry ingredients; a fork works in a pinch.
• Spatula: Great for folding in ingredients and spreading the mixture evenly.
• Wire rack: Ideal for cooling; a plate can substitute if needed.

Variations

• Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat.
• Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter for a deliciously nutty flavor.
• Minty Fresh: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these s’mores cookie bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
• Serve with a glass of cold milk to enhance the chocolatey goodness.
• For a fun presentation, drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving.
• Garnish with extra mini marshmallows for a festive touch.

FAQs about The Best s’mores cookie bars

Can I make these s’mores cookie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before baking. This way, you can enjoy fresh bars whenever you want!

How do I store leftover s’mores cookie bars?

To keep your cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months!

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can easily swap out ingredients. For instance, use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. You can also replace chocolate chips with white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with s’mores cookie bars?

These cookie bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream or a glass of cold milk. You can also serve them with fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. The possibilities are endless!

Why are my s’mores cookie bars too crumbly?

If your bars are crumbly, it might be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the dough. Make sure to follow the baking time closely and check for that golden brown color. A little extra egg or butter can also help with moisture!

Summarizing the Joy of The Best s’mores cookie bars

There’s something magical about the best s’mores cookie bars that brings joy to every bite. They evoke memories of summer nights spent around a campfire, laughter, and shared stories. These bars are not just a dessert; they’re a way to create moments with family and friends. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these treats are sure to bring smiles all around. With their soft, chewy texture and gooey chocolate, they remind us that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the sweetest. So, gather your loved ones and indulge in this delightful experience!

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