S’mores Cookie Bars: 7 Layers of Delightful Bliss

Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried making s’mores cookie bars yet, you’re seriously missing out! These little squares of heaven combine all the best parts of the classic campfire treat with the soft, gooey goodness of a cookie. Honestly, what’s not to love? Imagine biting into a warm, chewy bar filled with layers of rich chocolate and fluffy marshmallow – it’s like a hug in dessert form!

I still remember the first time I made these with my kids. We were trying to recreate that nostalgia of roasting marshmallows in our backyard, but without the smoke and the mess. As soon as they came out of the oven, the whole house smelled like a sweet, chocolatey dream. We sat down with them fresh and warm, hot chocolate in hand, and it was pure bliss! The kids’ faces lit up as they took their first bites, and honestly, I couldn’t stop at just one. They’re perfect for parties, bake sales, or just because you need a little treat to brighten up your day. Trust me, these s’mores cookie bars will become your new favorite go-to dessert!

Ingredients for S’mores Cookie Bars

Gather up these ingredients to create the most delicious s’mores cookie bars that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

• 1/2 cup butter, softened: You can use either salted or unsalted butter, but I love the richness that salted butter adds!
• 1/3 cup brown sugar: This will give your bars that lovely caramel flavor. Don’t pack it too tightly, just a gentle scoop will do.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: A little sweetness to balance out the brown sugar. Trust me, it makes a difference!
• 1 egg: This helps bind everything together and adds moisture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Always use pure vanilla for the best flavor – it’s totally worth it!
• 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Just the regular stuff works perfectly here.
• 1/2 cup graham crackers, finely crushed: About 3.5 sheets will do. This gives that classic s’mores taste!
• 1/4 tsp salt: This enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• 3/4 tsp baking soda: This is what helps the bars rise and gives them that perfect texture.
• 5 standard Hershey bars: You’ll want to break these into pieces for that gooey, chocolatey layer.
• 1 1/2 cup marshmallow fluff: The star of the show! This adds that fluffy, sweet marshmallow layer that ties everything together.

Make sure you have everything ready to go, and let’s dive into the fun part – making these bars!

How to Prepare S’mores Cookie Bars

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s jump into the fun part – preparing these delicious s’mores cookie bars! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a tray of gooey goodness in no time.

Prepping the Oven and Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a hot oven helps the bars rise beautifully. While that’s heating up, grab an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. This makes for easy removal later. Just let the parchment hang over the edges a bit so you can lift the bars out once they’re baked. Trust me, this little trick is a game changer!

Mixing the Cookie Dough

Now, let’s get to mixing! In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s nice and smooth. You want it to be light and fluffy, so don’t rush this part – about 2-3 minutes should do the trick. Next, crack in that egg and add the vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, crushed graham crackers, salt, and baking soda. Gradually fold this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be a little thick and ready for layering!

Layering the Ingredients

Here comes the fun part! Take half of your cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Once you’ve got that layer down, pop the pan in the freezer for about 10 minutes to firm it up. While that’s chilling, you can re-line your pan with parchment for the next layer.

Next, arrange the pieces of Hershey chocolate bars over the chilled cookie layer. Make sure to cover it evenly for that melty goodness! Now, spread the marshmallow fluff generously over the chocolate layer. It’s okay if it gets a little messy – that just means more deliciousness! Finally, take your remaining cookie dough and gently press it on top of the marshmallow fluff. Try to keep it intact, but don’t worry too much if it doesn’t cover perfectly. It’ll all come together in the oven!

Baking the Bars

Time to bake! Pop your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial for achieving those clean cuts when you’re ready to slice them up. Patience is key here – I know it’s tough, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Nutritional Information

Before we dive into the deliciousness of these s’mores cookie bars, let’s take a moment to chat about the nutrition. Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this is just an estimate to give you an idea of what you’re enjoying in each delightful bar.

Here’s what you can expect per serving (1 bar):

• Calories: 200
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 2g

Enjoy these bars in moderation, and you’ll not only be treating your taste buds but also indulging in a sweet moment of nostalgia!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy to Make: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious s’mores cookie bars in no time!
• Layers of Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate, fluffy marshmallow, and buttery cookie dough creates a taste sensation that’s simply irresistible.
• Nostalgic Treat: They capture the essence of classic s’mores, bringing back memories of campfires and childhood adventures.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, a bake sale, or just a cozy night in, these bars are bound to be a hit!
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe with different chocolates or add-ins to make it your own!
• Leftovers (if there are any!) Last: These bars stay delicious for days, making them a great make-ahead dessert.

Tips for Success

Let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your s’mores cookie bars turn out perfectly every time! With a few simple tricks, you’ll be the star baker at your next gathering.

• Use a Sharp Knife for Cutting: This is key! When it’s time to slice your bars, a sharp knife will give you those clean, beautiful edges. I like to run the knife under hot water and then dry it off before cutting. It helps to warm the knife and makes the process smoother!
• Store Properly: To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you think they won’t be eaten within a few days (which is hard to believe!), you can refrigerate them to extend their shelf life. Just let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
• Don’t Rush the Cooling Process: I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting your bars cool completely in the pan will make slicing them much easier and give you those perfect layers. Patience pays off here!
• Experiment with Flavor: Don’t be afraid to play around with the recipe! Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can enhance the flavors, or try swapping out the chocolate for your favorite kind—dark chocolate or even peanut butter cups work wonderfully!
• Use Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe is simple, the quality of your ingredients really shines through. Using good chocolate and real butter will make a noticeable difference in taste!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the best s’mores cookie bars ever. Happy baking!

Variations of S’mores Cookie Bars

Feeling adventurous? There are so many fun ways to mix things up with your s’mores cookie bars! Here are some delicious variations that will keep your taste buds excited:

• Different Chocolate Types: Why not switch up the chocolate? Dark chocolate adds a rich depth, while milk chocolate is classic and sweet. You could even use white chocolate for a fun twist or try flavored chocolates like caramel or mint for a new take!
• Add Nuts: If you love a bit of crunch, toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. They add a nice texture and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness. Just make sure to chop them finely so they mix well throughout the bars!
• Flavored Marshmallows: Instead of the traditional marshmallow fluff, try using flavored versions! Strawberry, coconut, or even s’mores-flavored marshmallow fluff can create a unique taste explosion. It’s a fun way to personalize your bars!
• Peanut Butter Surprise: For peanut butter lovers, add a layer of creamy peanut butter or even peanut butter chips between the chocolate and marshmallow layers. It’s a match made in dessert heaven!
• Cookies and Cream: Crush up some Oreo cookies and mix them into the cookie dough for a cookies and cream twist! You can also sprinkle crushed Oreos on top of the marshmallow fluff for added crunch and flavor.
• Seasonal Flavors: Change it up with the seasons! In the fall, add a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy vibe, or in the summer, use fresh berries for a fruity kick. The possibilities are endless!

Experimenting with these variations allows you to create your own signature s’mores cookie bars that’ll impress everyone. Have fun and enjoy the process – you might just discover a new favorite flavor combination!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of these scrumptious s’mores cookie bars, let’s talk about how to elevate the experience even further! Here are some delightful serving suggestions that pair perfectly with these gooey treats:

• Hot Chocolate: Nothing beats a warm cup of hot chocolate to go along with your s’mores cookie bars. Top it with whipped cream or a sprinkle of marshmallows for that extra cozy feel!
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these bars warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of warm chocolate and cold ice cream is simply divine!
• Fresh Berries: Add a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness. The tartness of the berries balances out the rich flavors beautifully.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top of your s’mores cookie bars for an indulgent twist. It adds another layer of sweetness and a lovely gooey texture!
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can take your bars to the next level. It’s light, fluffy, and perfectly complements the dense cookie layers.
• Nutty Trail Mix: For a crunchy contrast, serve a small bowl of nutty trail mix on the side. It adds a satisfying crunch and a bit of heartiness that pairs surprisingly well with the softness of the bars.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance your s’mores cookie bars but also create a delightful dessert spread that everyone will love. Enjoy every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve got some delicious s’mores cookie bars left over? Lucky you! These bars store beautifully, and I’ve got all the tips to keep them fresh and tasty for days. Here’s how to do it:

First, let your s’mores cookie bars cool completely in the pan. Once they’re cool to the touch, lift them out using the parchment paper. Place them on a cutting board and slice them into squares or rectangles, whichever you prefer. This makes it super easy to grab one whenever the craving hits!

To store, pop those cut bars into an airtight container. I like to add a layer of parchment paper between the bars, just to keep them from sticking together. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep them longer (as if they’ll last that long!), you can refrigerate them. Just make sure they’re sealed tight to prevent them from drying out.

Now, if you’re ready to enjoy a bar after they’ve been in the fridge, I recommend letting them come to room temperature for the best flavor. But if you’re like me and can’t wait, a quick zap in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds will warm them right up, making that chocolate all melty again. Yum!

For longer storage, you can freeze these bars! Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a while. You might even want to warm them slightly again for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your s’mores cookie bars whenever the mood strikes. Enjoy every gooey, chocolatey bite!

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