What makes the perfect summer treat even better – a cookie bar twist. These gooey s’mores cookie bars are a quick and easy homemade favorite, loaded with marshmallows and chocolate. Try making them with a shortbread crust for an extra rich flavor, save this idea for your next family gathering or pin for later.

s’mores cookie bars on a plate with marshmallows in the middle

Introduction

Imagine a dessert that combines the classic campfire treat with the convenience of a cookie bar, all in one delightful package. S’mores cookie bars on a plate with marshmallows in the middle are the perfect fusion of flavors and textures, offering an easy, creative, and deliciously satisfying treat for any occasion. Using everyday ingredients, these bars are not only a breeze to make but also offer a unique twist on traditional s’mores, making them perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a fun dessert to enjoy at home. The combination of gooey marshmallows, crunchy graham crackers, and rich chocolate, all nestled within a soft cookie base, promises to delight both kids and adults alike.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The harmony of sweet and savory flavors, combined with the use of readily available ingredients, makes this recipe a standout. Graham crackers, chocolate, marshmallows, and basic baking supplies are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: The simplicity of layering ingredients and baking makes this recipe accessible to bakers of all skill levels. It requires minimal preparation time and effort, perfect for those looking for a quick dessert solution.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is visually appealing and sure to impress. The combination of textures and flavors creates a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for s’mores cookie bars include a cookie base made from butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and vanilla extract, graham crackers for added crunch and flavor, marshmallows for the signature s’mores gooeyness, and chocolate bars or chips for the chocolate layer. Practical substitutions can be made, such as using different types of chocolate or adding nuts for extra texture. For those with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flours or dairy-free alternatives to accommodate various needs.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal once the bars are baked. Next, prepare your cookie dough by creaming together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then adding eggs one at a time, followed by the flour and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
2. Step 2: Press half of the cookie dough into the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. While the cookie base is baking, prepare your graham cracker layer by crushing the graham crackers and mixing with a bit of melted butter to help them stick together. Once the cookie base is ready, top it with the graham cracker mixture, followed by a layer of chocolate bars or chocolate chips.
3. Step 3: Place the marshmallows on top of the chocolate layer. You can use mini marshmallows for better coverage or regular-sized marshmallows for a more rustic look. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows are toasted to your liking. Be careful not to burn them. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly.
4. Step 4: Top the marshmallow layer with the remaining cookie dough. You can either spread it evenly or use your hands to flatten pieces of dough into disks and place them on top for a more textured look. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars and serving.

Handy Tips

• For a golden-brown top, brush the cookie dough with a little bit of egg wash before baking. This will give your bars a beautiful, professional finish.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate for varying flavor profiles. Dark chocolate adds a deeper, richer flavor, while milk chocolate keeps things sweet and classic.
• Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can also enhance the flavors and textures of the bars.

Heat Control

When baking the cookie base and the final assembly, keep an eye on the temperature and timing. The oven should be at a steady 350°F (175°C). For the cookie base, bake for 10-12 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. When toasting the marshmallows, a quick 2-3 minutes under watchful eyes is crucial to prevent burning. The final bake should take about 20-25 minutes, or until the top layer of cookie dough is golden brown.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch factor in s’mores cookie bars is about balance. The graham cracker layer provides a nice crunch, while the cookie base and top should be soft and chewy. To ensure the cookie layers don’t become too hard, avoid overbaking. The marshmallows add a fluffy texture, balancing out the crunch from the graham crackers. For an extra crunch, consider adding some chopped nuts to the cookie dough or using a crunchy chocolate bar on top.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. While it might be tempting to use cheaper alternatives, the difference in taste is noticeable.
• Don’t overmix the cookie dough. This can lead to tough, dense bars instead of soft and chewy ones.
• For easier cutting, refrigerate the bars for about 30 minutes before slicing. This will help them hold their shape and make the cutting process cleaner.

Storage Tips

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them softer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and let them come to room temperature before serving.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen bars can be stored for up to 2 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature or refrigerate overnight.
• Reheating can be done in the microwave for a few seconds to soften the bars if they’ve been refrigerated or frozen. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can melt the chocolate and make the bars messy.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting these s’mores cookie bars, there are several creative ways to package them. Wrap individual bars in cellophane bags and tie with a ribbon for a rustic, homespun look. Alternatively, place a batch of bars in a decorative tin or jar, perfect for a more polished presentation. Adding a few extra marshmallows, a piece of chocolate, or a graham cracker on top of the bars in the container can make for a charming and inviting gift.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a unique twist on the classic s’mores flavor.
• Creative toppings: In addition to the traditional chocolate and marshmallows, try adding other toppings like caramel sauce, chopped nuts, or even candy pieces to create a variety of flavor combinations.
• Ingredient swaps: For a vegan version, swap out the butter and eggs in the cookie dough with vegan alternatives. You can also use dairy-free chocolate for the chocolate layer.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your bars turn out too hard, it might be due to overbaking. Conversely, if they’re too soft, they might not have been baked long enough. Finding the right balance is key.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re missing an ingredient, consider what you can substitute it with. For example, if you don’t have graham crackers, you could use another type of crunchy cookie or even wafers as a substitute.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your bars while they’re baking. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover the dish with foil to prevent burning. Undercooked bars will be soft and possibly fall apart; overcooked bars will be hard and crispy.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, these bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag.
• Is it gluten-free? The traditional recipe includes graham crackers and wheat flour, making it not gluten-free. However, you can make gluten-free substitutions for both the graham crackers and the flour to accommodate gluten-free diets.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger batch will take longer to bake through, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

Conclusion

Making s’mores cookie bars on a plate with marshmallows in the middle is a fun and rewarding baking project that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite among both kids and adults. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make the recipe your own, and consider sharing your creations with friends and family as a thoughtful gift. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to enjoy the classic campfire treat in a whole new way.