S’mores Cookie Bars
These delicious S’mores Cookie Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. They combine the classic flavors of s’mores into a convenient bar form, making them ideal for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. The gooey marshmallow fluff and rich chocolate create a delightful experience that will please both kids and adults alike. With minimal prep time, you can whip up these cookie bars quickly and enjoy a taste of summer nostalgia any time of year.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – These s’mores cookie bars come together in just 15 minutes of prep.
- Decadent flavor – The combination of chocolate, marshmallow fluff, and graham crackers offers a truly indulgent treat.
- Perfect for sharing – With 16 servings, they’re great for parties or family desserts.
- Versatile base – Feel free to customize with different types of chocolate or add nuts for extra crunch.
- Kid-friendly fun – Making these bars can be a fun activity with children, involving them in the process.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your s’mores cookie bars, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking pan – The right size ensures even baking for perfectly formed bars.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing bowls – Allows you to combine ingredients without mess.
- Electric mixer – Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars.
Ingredients
These delicious s’mores cookie bars are filled with delicious marshmallow creme and chocolate bars in the center.
- 1/2 cup Butter (softened, salted or unsalted)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 & 1/2 cup AP flour
- 1/2 cup graham crackers (finely crushed, about 3.5 sheets, for the cookie dough)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 5 standard Hershey bars
- 1 & 1/2 cup Marshmallow fluff
How to Make S’mores Cookie Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: Cream the Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined.
2. Add in one egg and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix again until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl:
1. Combine 1 & 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup finely crushed graham crackers, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 3/4 teaspoon baking soda.
2. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 4: Layer the Dough
- Press half of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Remove this layer from the pan using the parchment paper and place it in the freezer while you prepare more parchment paper for the remaining dough.
Step 5: Add Chocolate and Marshmallow Fluff
- Place five standard Hershey bars over the pressed dough. Break pieces as needed to cover completely.
- Spread 1 & 1/2 cups of marshmallow fluff over the chocolate layer gently.
- Take out the chilled dough layer from the freezer and carefully flip it on top of everything.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Let cool completely before slicing into squares to reveal that beautiful cross-section!
How to Serve S’mores cookie bars
S’mores cookie bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.
Classic Style
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious contrast of temperatures.
S’mores Sundae
- Crumble the cookie bars over a bowl of ice cream and drizzle with chocolate sauce for an indulgent sundae.
Campfire Vibes
- Pair with hot cocoa or a campfire-style beverage to recreate that classic s’mores experience.
Snack Platter
- Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve alongside fresh fruit for a balanced snack option.
Party Favors
- Wrap individual cookie bars in clear cellophane and tie with ribbon for a sweet party favor.
How to Perfect S’mores cookie bars
To ensure your s’mores cookie bars turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker bars.
- Use quality chocolate: Choose high-quality chocolate bars for the best flavor; Hershey’s works well, but gourmet chocolates can elevate your bars even more.
- Measure accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale if possible to ensure your ingredients are measured correctly.
- Don’t rush cooling: Allow the cookie bars to cool completely before slicing. This step is crucial for achieving clean cuts and maintaining structure.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts or peanut butter chips to the batter for extra flavor and texture variation.
Best Side Dishes for S’mores cookie bars
Pairing side dishes with your s’mores cookie bars can enhance the overall dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit: Berries or sliced bananas provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
- Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate makes a fun dipping option, allowing guests to customize their treats.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a nice touch when served alongside warm cookie bars.
- Coffee: A strong cup of coffee balances sweetness and makes for an enjoyable pairing after dinner.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can create an interesting flavor profile alongside your sweet treat.
- Nut Mix: A mix of salted nuts offers a savory crunch that complements the sweetness of the s’mores cookie bars perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making s’mores cookie bars can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using cold butter – Cold butter won’t cream well with sugars. Always use softened butter for a smooth consistency.
- Not chilling the dough – Skipping the chilling step can lead to spreading while baking. Chill the dough before layering to keep your bars thick and chewy.
- Overbaking – Overbaking can dry out your bars. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they are golden brown for perfect texture.
- Ignoring cooling time – Cutting into warm bars can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely for clean slices.
- Forgetting parchment paper – Not lining your pan can lead to sticky situations. Always use parchment paper for easy removal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store s’mores cookie bars in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing S’mores cookie bars
- Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can last up to 3 months.
Reheating S’mores cookie bars
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F, wrap the bars in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop – Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making s’mores cookie bars.
Can I use different chocolate types in s’mores cookie bars?
Yes, feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even flavored chocolates according to your taste preference.
How do I make gluten-free s’mores cookie bars?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
What makes these s’mores cookie bars so special?
The combination of creamy marshmallow fluff and rich chocolate creates a nostalgic flavor that perfectly mimics traditional s’mores.
Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts or sprinkles can add extra texture and flavor to your s’mores cookie bars.
Final Thoughts
These s’mores cookie bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various chocolates or toppings to suit your taste. Whether it’s for family gatherings or just a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress everyone. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!
S’mores Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of s’mores cookie bars, a perfect treat that brings the classic flavors of summer to your kitchen year-round. These scrumptious bars combine layers of gooey marshmallow fluff, rich chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers into a convenient, shareable dessert. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a nostalgic indulgence that will please both kids and adults alike. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these s’mores cookie bars are an irresistible addition to any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely crushed graham crackers
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 5 standard Hershey bars
- 1.5 cups marshmallow fluff
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Add egg and vanilla; mix until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine flour, crushed graham crackers, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Press half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan. Freeze briefly while preparing the topping.
- Layer broken Hershey bars on top, followed by marshmallow fluff. Place the remaining dough on top and bake for about 25 minutes.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (45g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
