Craving a sweet treat that’s quick and easy? Look no further! S’mores Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars combine gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers in one delicious bar. This recipe brings the campfire classic right to your kitchen. You’ll love how simple and fun it is to make these bars! Get ready to impress family and friends with this delightful dessert that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
For S’mores Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, you’ll need these simple ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
These ingredients come together to create a delicious treat. The butter gives a rich flavor, while the sugars add sweetness. The eggs help bind everything, making the bars soft and chewy. The flour, baking soda, and salt create a sturdy base. Adding chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs brings that classic s’mores flavor.
When you mix these ingredients, remember to enjoy the process. Baking should be fun. You can also experiment with the amounts a bit, if you want a more chocolatey or gooey bar. For the full recipe, check out the instructions above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Baking Pan
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper.
First, set your oven to 350°F. This step warms the oven for even baking. Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan. Lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. Then, line the pan with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This makes it easy to lift the bars out later.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
– Cream butter and sugars together.
– Add eggs and vanilla extract.
In a large bowl, take softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream them together. Beat until the mix is light and fluffy. This should take about two minutes. Next, add the eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Finally, pour in the vanilla extract. Blend until everything combines smoothly.
Combining Dry Ingredients
– Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
– Incorporate dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
Grab another bowl for your dry mix. In it, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything mixes evenly. Now, slowly add this dry mix to your wet mixture. Stir gently until no flour streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix; that can make the bars tough.
Assembling the Bars
– Spread half of the dough into the pan.
– Layer with marshmallows and chocolate chips.
– Top with remaining dough.
Now it’s time to assemble! Take half of the dough and spread it evenly in the pan. Press down gently to form a solid base. Next, sprinkle mini marshmallows all over the dough. Follow this with semi-sweet chocolate chips. Save a handful of each for the top. Finally, spread the remaining dough over everything. Make sure to cover the marshmallows and chocolate well.
Baking
– Bake for 25-30 minutes.
– Cool in pan before transferring to wire rack.
Place your pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it. You want a golden brown color and a slightly puffy center. When done, take the pan out and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper edges to lift the bars out. Transfer them to a wire rack for further cooling.
For the full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy creating these tasty bars!
Tips & Tricks
Avoiding Overmixing
When making S’mores Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, avoid overmixing the dough. Overmixing can make the bars tough. You want a soft, chewy texture. After adding flour, fold the mixture gently. Stop mixing as soon as there are no flour streaks. This helps keep the bars light.
Optimal Baking Time
To check if your cookie bars are done, look for a golden brown top. The center should be slightly puffy and not jiggly. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bars are ready. Keep an eye on them, as ovens vary.
Presentation Tips
To make your bars look fancy, dust the top with powdered sugar. This adds a sweet touch and makes them pop. Serve with a small bowl of chocolate sauce for drizzling. It enhances both flavor and presentation. These simple steps make your treat even more special.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Variations
Adding Flavor Enhancements
You can switch up the chocolate in these bars. Use dark chocolate chips for a rich taste. Milk chocolate brings a sweet touch. White chocolate adds creaminess and pairs well with the marshmallows.
Nuts can also enhance the texture. Chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips. This extra layer of flavor makes each bite special.
Vegan or Gluten-Free Options
If you want a vegan version, use plant-based butter and flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. This will replace one egg in the recipe.
For gluten-free bars, use a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s a one-to-one substitute. You can also find gluten-free graham crackers. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats.
Seasonal Variations
Adapt these bars for different holidays! Try adding peppermint extract for Christmas. Top with crushed candy canes for a festive flair.
For Halloween, mix in orange and black sprinkles. You can also add pumpkin spice for a cozy, autumn flavor.
These simple twists keep the recipe fresh and fun for any occasion. You can find the full recipe above to start baking today!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your S’mores chocolate chip cookie bars fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure the bars are cool before sealing. This helps prevent sogginess and keeps them soft. If you have extra bars, layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Avoid leaving them uncovered, as they can dry out quickly.
Freezing the Bars
You can freeze these bars for later enjoyment. 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. When you are ready to eat, just take them out and thaw at room temperature. You can also warm them slightly in the microwave for a gooey treat.
Shelf Life
When stored properly, these bars last about a week at room temperature. If you freeze them, they can last up to three months. Just remember to check for any signs of freezer burn if you keep them for a long time. Enjoy your delicious treat fresh, but don’t worry if you have some left!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. It adds a nutty flavor. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly, as whole wheat absorbs more moisture. Almond flour is another option, but it will change the texture. For a gluten-free option, try a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Always check the blend for added binders.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for a golden brown top. The center should appear slightly puffy and set. You can also insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bars are ready. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary with different ovens.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance. Just bake and let them cool completely. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap. They will stay fresh in the fridge for a few days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving.
What’s the best way to cut these bars?
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife. Warm the knife slightly under hot water, then dry it. This helps it glide through the bars. Cut them into squares or rectangles as you prefer. Arrange them neatly on a plate for a nice presentation.
Are these S’mores Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the sweet mix of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers. These bars are easy to hold and eat. Just be mindful of allergies. You can adjust the chocolate or marshmallow amounts to suit their tastes. They are a fun treat for parties and gatherings.
These S’mores Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are easy and delicious. We covered the ingredients, steps, and helpful tips. You saw how to mix it all together and achieve the perfect bake. The variations let you try new flavors, and the storage tips help keep them fresh.
Enjoy these bars with friends and family. They are a hit for any gathering. Keep experimenting and find your favorite way to make them. Happy baking!
