S’mores Cookie Bars

Ingredients:

7–8 graham crackers (full, unbroken rectangles)

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon salt

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 cup mini marshmallows

2 regular-sized (1.55oz) Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars, broken into squares

Instructions:

Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Take a 13×9 inch pan. Line it with parchment paper making sure to leave a 2-inch overhang, on the sides for easy removal later.

Layer the Graham Crackers: Place graham crackers in a single layer to cover the base of the pan. Break them into sections if needed to ensure an even fit.

Creaming the Butter and Sugars: In the bowl of a mixer use the paddle attachment to cream room-temperature butter, granulated sugar and packed light brown sugar until they become smooth and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Make sure to mix until everything is nicely combined.

Combining Dry Ingredients: In another bowl whisk together all-purpose flour, salt and baking soda. Gradually fold this mixture into the butter mixture while adding chocolate chips and mini marshmallows along the way. Mix until everything is just blended.

Spreading the Dough: Evenly spread out the cookie dough over the graham cracker layer, in your pan. Press it down firmly to create a surface.

Optional Marshmallow Topping: For an extra touch of gooeyness you can sprinkle additional mini marshmallows on top of your cookie dough.

Baking to Perfection: Place the pan into the oven. Bake it for around 25 to 30 minutes. Keep a watch, on the bars. If you notice that the top is browning faster while the center is baking cover it with foil.

Chocolate Bar Finale: Once the bars turn a golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean take them out of the oven. While they are still warm gently press broken squares of Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar onto the top.

Cool and Serve: Allow some time for cooling and serving. Let the bars cool in the pan, for 20 30 minutes. This waiting period allows all those delightful flavors to meld together while allowing the chocolate to set. Lift them out of the pan using the overhanging parchment paper then cut them into squares and savor every bite!

Notes:

To make the S’mores Cookie Bars recipe suit a gluten-free diet, you will need to substitute the ingredients that contain gluten.

Graham Crackers: Swap out regular graham crackers for gluten-free alternatives. Look for certified options that closely replicate the original taste and texture.

All-Purpose Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a blend specifically formulated as a 1:1 substitute for all-purpose flour in gluten recipes. This ensures that the bars maintain their desired texture and structure.

Chocolate Chips: Opt for chocolate chips that are specifically labeled as gluten-free. Considerable brands offer these versions. Consistently double check the label to guarantee they are certified as gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.

Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars: Pick milk chocolate bars that are certified as gluten-free. Just like with chocolate chips, it’s important to confirm their quality to prevent any exposure to gluten.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 16 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, based on your preference.

The Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars can be swapped out for other chocolate varieties for a unique flavor twist.

Can I use whole graham crackers instead of breaking them into sections?

Yes, you can use whole graham crackers to cover the base of the pan.

Breaking them into sections helps ensure an even fit and makes it easier to create a uniform layer, but using whole graham crackers can work as well.

Can I add other mix-ins to the cookie dough, like nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely! You can customize the cookie dough by adding your favorite mix-ins, such as chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or dried fruit (such as raisins or dried cranberries).

Just be mindful of the quantities to maintain the desired texture and balance of flavors.

Can I make these bars in advance and how should I store them?

Yes, you can make these bars in advance. Once they have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.

If you need to store them for a longer period, consider refrigerating them to maintain freshness.

Can I use a different type of pan if I don’t have a 13×9 inch pan?

If you don’t have a 13×9 inch pan, you can use a similar-sized baking dish or pan.

Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as different pans may affect the baking time and thickness of the bars.

Keep an eye on them as they bake to ensure they’re cooked to your desired level.

Can I use different flavors of chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?

Yes, you can certainly use different flavors of chocolate chips, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate, to tailor the flavor profile to your preference.

It’s a great way to add your personal touch to the recipe.

What can I do if I don’t have a mixer with a paddle attachment?

If you don’t have a mixer with a paddle attachment, you can use a hand mixer or even mix by hand using a sturdy spoon.

The goal is to cream the butter and sugars until smooth and fluffy.

Can I use a different type of sugar instead of granulated and light brown sugar?

While granulated and light brown sugar contribute to the texture and flavor of the bars, you can experiment with alternatives like coconut sugar or cane sugar.

Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Can I add other ingredients like chopped nuts or flavored extracts to the dough?

Yes, you can customize the dough by adding chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) or flavored extracts (like almond or hazelnut) for added texture and flavor.

Just be cautious with the quantity to maintain the desired balance of ingredients.

How do I prevent the marshmallows from melting too much during baking?

Marshmallows have a tendency to melt and spread while baking.

To prevent excessive melting, you can consider adding the mini marshmallows halfway through the baking time, or simply press them gently onto the top after the bars are baked and taken out of the oven.