S’more Cookie Bars: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for Campfire Lovers

S’more Cookie Bars are a deliciously decadent twist on a campfire classic. These golden-brown bars combine the rich flavors everyone loves from the traditional s’more—crispy graham crackers, gooey marshmallows, and melty chocolate—into a cheerful dessert. Their sweetness and crunch create an irresistible taste that can be enjoyed at any moment, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for something comforting after a long day.
The moment you take a bite of these S’more Cookie Bars, you’re transported to warm summer nights spent around the campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories with friends. They deliver all of the cozy nostalgia of a traditional s’more while providing the added benefit of convenience—no need for open flames or camping gear! You can indulge in this delightful treat any time of the year.
Not only are these bars easy to make, but they also make a splash at gatherings. Imagine serving a tray of warm, gooey S’more Cookie Bars at your next family reunion or holiday party. The smiles they bring will extend far beyond the sweet aroma wafting from your kitchen. In this guide, you’ll learn everything there is to know about these amazing S’more Cookie Bars, from preparation and cooking times to tips for serving them perfectly. Get ready to impress everyone with this delightful dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

S’more Cookie Bars are designed to please everyone, from kids to adults. Here are some reasons why you’ll love making and sharing this recipe:
1. Easy to Prepare: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, even beginner bakers can master this recipe in no time.
2. One-Pan Wonder: Baking these bars in a single pan means less cleanup and easy serving.
3. Versatile Flavor Combinations: You can customize the recipe by mixing in nuts, different chocolates, or flavored extracts for a personalized touch.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family barbecue or a cozy night in, these bars are suitable for all events.
5. Chewy and Crisp Texture: The layer of cookie dough combined with gooey marshmallows and melted chocolate creates an incredible flavorsome experience.
6. Memories in Every Bite: Each piece evokes the joyful memories of camping trips and summer nights, bringing a smile to everyone’s face.
The balance of flavors and textures makes these S’more Cookie Bars a delightful choice for every sweet tooth!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making S’more Cookie Bars takes about 45–60 minutes, from start to finish. Here’s how the timing breaks down:
– Preparation Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
– Cooling Time: 10–15 minutes
These times can vary slightly based on your experience and kitchen efficiency, but this framework provides a solid estimate.

Ingredients

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
– 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
– Extra graham cracker crumbs for topping (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating S’more Cookie Bars is an easy process if you follow these steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add Dry to Wet: Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring well until combined.
5. Add Graham Cracker Crumbs: Fold in the graham cracker crumbs until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Spread the Dough: Press half of the cookie dough mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a uniform base.
7. Layer with Chocolate and Marshmallows: Sprinkle the chocolate chips and half of the mini marshmallows evenly over the dough in the pan.
8. Top with Remaining Dough: Take the remaining dough and flatten it to create another layer, pressing it gently over the marshmallow and chocolate layer.
9. Add More Marshmallows: Top the dough layer with the remaining mini marshmallows and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs, if desired.
10. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The top should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
11. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes before slicing into squares.
Following these steps will guide you smoothly through the process of making these delightful S’more Cookie Bars.

How to Serve

To serve the delectable S’more Cookie Bars and make them even more enjoyable, consider these tips:
1. Presentation: Arrange the bars on a platter or decorative tray for an appealing display. Add a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs on top for additional flair.
2. Accompany with Dipping Sauces: Offer melted chocolate or a drizzle of caramel sauce as a dipping option for added sweetness and indulgence.
3. Pair with Beverages: Serve these bars with milk, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fantastic combination.
4. Store for Later Enjoyment: If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can be reheated in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their gooeyness.
With these serving suggestions in mind, your S’more Cookie Bars will surely be a hit and leave your guests wanting more!

Additional Tips

– Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, choose high-quality chocolate and fresh marshmallows. This will significantly enhance the taste of your S’more Cookie Bars.
– Customize Chocolate Choices: Explore various types of chocolate. You can use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chocolates like caramel or peanut butter for a fun twist.
– Layering Technique: Ensure even distribution of chocolate chips and marshmallows for consistent flavor in every bite. Pat the layers gently to combine them.
– Serve Warm: These bars are at their best when served warm. They’re gooey and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Consider warming them briefly before serving.
– Add a Touch of Salt: A sprinkle of fleur de sel or sea salt on top before baking can enhance the sweet flavors and add an interesting contrast.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to experiment with the recipe! Here are a few variations to try:
1. Peanut Butter Swirl: Add dollops of peanut butter to the top layer before baking for a rich, nutty flavor.
2. Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the batter for added crunch and flavor.
3. Mint Chocolate S’mores: Use mint chocolate chips or a touch of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty twist.
4. S’mores with a Twist: Instead of graham crackers, use crushed Oreos or chocolate cookies for a different base flavor.
5. Fruity Addition: Incorporate sliced strawberries or bananas between the layers for a fresh and fruity alternative.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep the S’more Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If it’s particularly warm, refrigerate them to prevent melting.
– Freezing: To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.

Special Equipment

You’ll need a few essential tools to prepare these cookie bars successfully:
– Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl for mixing the wet ingredients and another for dry ingredients.
– Electric Mixer: This helps to cream the butter and sugars together quickly.
– 9×13-inch Baking Pan: A standard size for even baking and easy serving.
– Parchment Paper: Optional, but lining the pan makes it easy to lift out the bars once baked.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the S’more Cookie Bars are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out mostly clean, with soft crumbs sticking, they’re ready.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance. Just store them covered to maintain freshness.
What can I do if I don’t have graham crackers?
You can substitute with any kind of cookie or cracker that you prefer.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
Can I eliminate the chocolate chips?
You can simplify the recipe by omitting the chocolate chips, but you might want to replace them with something else to maintain flavor.

Conclusion

S’more Cookie Bars are not only delectable but also nostalgic, bringing back memories of summer nights and campfire treats. They are easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. The combination of gooey marshmallows, melted chocolate, and graham cracker flavors makes them a crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake these delightful bars! Your taste buds will be forever grateful.

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