S’mores Cookie Bars

Nothing brings a smile quite like the gooey, dreamy combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers. These S’mores Cookie Bars are just what you need for that nostalgic feel of camping nights and bonfires, all wrapped up in a deliciously portable treat. With their soft, chewy texture and a glorious layer of melted chocolate and toasted marshmallows, you’ll feel the warmth of summer even on a chilly evening. Trust me, these bars are an absolute crowd-pleaser, and you’ll want to whip up a batch for your next get-together or cozy night in.

S’mores are a classic, right? But let’s be real, setting up a fire just for a few melty marshmallows can be a hassle. Enter S’mores Cookie Bars. These delightful bars take everything delicious about traditional s’mores and condense it into easy-to-eat treats. There’s no fuss, no flames, just pure bliss. They’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or just when you need to lift your spirits with a sweet indulgence. Plus, they’re super easy to make and even easier to share.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter – softened
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar – packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips – semi-sweet or milk chocolate
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

Instructions

Preheat Your Oven:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This should take about 2-3 minutes, trust me, it makes a difference.

Add the Eggs and Vanilla:

Mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Blend everything until it’s perfectly combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.

Incorporate the Good Stuff:

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and graham cracker crumbs. The dough will be thick, but that’s exactly what you want.

Blend in the Marshmallows:

Lastly, fold in the mini marshmallows. Get ready for that melty goodness.

Spread and Bake:

Pour the dough into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The center will look set but slightly soft.

Let it Cool:

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing into bars. The marshmallows will be bubbly and glorious.

Nutritional Information

Each S’mores Cookie Bar holds about 180 calories, with 8 grams of fat and 22 grams of carbohydrates. They’re a sweet indulgence, so enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten up your S’mores Cookie Bars, consider substituting some ingredients. You can use coconut oil in place of butter or try whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose. For lower sugar content, opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. These swaps can still yield delicious results without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra indulgent treat. They are also delicious with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or even paired with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. Don’t forget to share them with family and friends, they’ll be begging for seconds.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake when making S’mores Cookie Bars is overmixing the dough, which can lead to dense bars rather than soft and chewy ones. Also, remember to watch the baking time carefully; every oven is different so check them a couple of minutes early to ensure perfect results.

Chef’s Notes

• If you want a deeper chocolate flavor, replace half the chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note that pairs wonderfully with chocolate and marshmallows.
• To keep them fresh, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
  A1: Absolutely; You can prepare the dough a day in advance and bake them fresh when ready.
• Q2: What can I use if I don’t have mini marshmallows?
  A2: Regular marshmallows can be used; just chop them into smaller pieces for even distribution.
• Q3: How do I reheat them if they become too firm?
  A3: Simply microwave them for a few seconds until they warm up and become gooey again.

So there you have it, your guide to making the most delightful S’mores Cookie Bars. If you’re eager for more delicious recipes, don’t forget to check out my S’mores Cookies Recipe for another twist on this classic treat. Trust me; you won’t regret it. I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!

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