What happens when s’mores meet cookie bars in a match made in heaven? These easy homemade treats feature toasted marshmallows and a gooey chocolate center, all thanks to a simple baking method. Save this idea for your next family favorite dessert to try soon

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 solution for anyone looking for a fun, easy, and delicious dessert to impress friends and family. Using everyday ingredients like graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows, you can create a masterpiece that’s both visually stunning and mouthwateringly good. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and these ingredients are easily found in most grocery stores.
• Ease of preparation: The cookie bars are simple to prepare, requiring just a few steps and no special equipment beyond a baking sheet and oven.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the simplicity of the recipe, the end result is impressive and sure to wow anyone who tries it, making it perfect for parties, gatherings, or special occasions.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include graham crackers, semi-sweet chocolate chips, marshmallows, and a few basic baking supplies like butter, sugar, and eggs. For the graham crackers, you can use either whole crackers or crumbs, depending on your preference for texture. Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide a rich, deep flavor, but you can also experiment with milk chocolate or white chocolate for a different twist. Marshmallows are the star of the show, providing a fluffy, sweet contrast to the crunchy graham crackers and chocolate. Practical substitutions include using different types of chocolate or adding nuts for extra texture.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven is heating up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Next, crush your graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or place them in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Mix the crumbs with a bit of sugar and melted butter until well combined.
2. Step 2: Press the graham cracker mixture into the prepared baking sheet, making sure to get it evenly distributed and pressed down firmly. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned. While the crust is baking, melt your chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Step 3: Once the crust is ready, remove it from the oven and pour the melted chocolate over the top. Immediately place marshmallows on top of the chocolate, spaced out to your liking. You can use either mini marshmallows or cut larger marshmallows into smaller pieces for a more uniform look.
4. Step 4: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows are toasted to your liking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting into bars and serving.

Handy Tips

• For a golden-brown marshmallow, watch the baking time closely and consider broiling the top for a few seconds for an extra toasted look.
• Consider adding nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate before adding the marshmallows for extra texture and flavor.
• To ensure the cookie bars cut cleanly, let them cool completely before slicing. You can also refrigerate them for about 30 minutes to firm up the chocolate and marshmallows.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially when toasting the marshmallows. The ideal temperature for toasting marshmallows is a quick burst of high heat, which is why broiling can be an effective method. However, keep a close eye to prevent burning. The timing will depend on your oven and the size of your marshmallows, but generally, 2-3 minutes under the broiler or a few seconds of watching closely will suffice. Signs of doneness include a golden-brown color on the marshmallows and a slightly puffed appearance.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these s’mores cookie bars comes from the graham cracker crust and the toasted marshmallows. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure your graham cracker crust is baked until lightly browned and firm to the touch. For the marshmallows, a quick toast under the broiler will give them a nice golden brown exterior while keeping the interior soft and fluffy. If you prefer a crunchier marshmallow, you can bake them for an additional minute or until they reach your desired level of toastiness.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a kitchen torch to toast the marshmallows for a more controlled and precise toast, allowing for a beautiful golden brown without the risk of burning.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate or add-ins like nuts, dried fruits, or even candy pieces to create unique flavor combinations.
• For easier cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, and consider using a spatula to press the graham cracker mixture into the corners of the pan for a crisp edge.

Storage Tips

• Store the s’mores cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a humid climate, consider storing them in the refrigerator to prevent the graham crackers from becoming soggy.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the cookie bars for up to 2 months. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container and thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to serve.
• Reheating is not necessary, but if you prefer your cookie bars warm, you can microwave them for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These s’mores cookie bars are perfect for gifting, especially during holidays or special occasions. Consider packaging them in decorative tins, jars, or boxes lined with parchment paper or wax paper. You can also wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and tie with a ribbon for a more rustic look. Adding a handwritten note or a small bag of gourmet marshmallows on the side can make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper to the graham cracker mixture for a unique twist.
• Creative toppings: Experiment with different types of chocolate, nuts, or even candy pieces on top of the marshmallows for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free option, or substitute the chocolate with carob chips for a dairy-free alternative.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your graham cracker crust is too crumbly, try adding a bit more butter or sugar. If your marshmallows are too toasted, reduce the baking time or broiling time.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or even wafers as a substitute. For chocolate, consider using chocolate chips, chocolate bars, or cocoa powder as alternatives.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your cookie bars while they’re baking, and check for doneness by looking for a lightly browned crust and toasted marshmallows. If the marshmallows are not toasted enough, return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional minute.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the s’mores cookie bars for up to 2 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to serve.
• Is it gluten-free? Not unless you use gluten-free graham crackers. Regular graham crackers contain gluten, so be sure to choose a gluten-free alternative if necessary.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make more cookie bars. Just be sure to use a larger baking sheet to accommodate the increased quantity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, s’mores cookie bars on a plate with marshmallows in the middle are a fun, easy, and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their perfect balance of flavors and textures, they’re sure to impress friends and family alike. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make the recipe your own, and consider sharing your creations on social media to inspire others. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness of these s’mores cookie bars!