Delicious S’mores Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12

Imagine biting into a warm, gooey cookie bar, the flavors of sweet chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and spiced gingerbread mingling together. You’re not just snacking; you’re indulging in a piece of nostalgia that brings you back to campfires and cozy gatherings. The **Delicious S’mores Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe** is more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting hug in bar form.

This recipe is special because it expertly combines the classic flavors of **s’mores** with the beloved warm spices of **gingerbread**. Whether you’re looking for a treat for weekend gatherings, holiday get-togethers, or just a cozy night in, these bars deliver on taste, texture, and ease. Not only are they a cinch to prepare, but they also lend themselves to countless variations that suit dietary preferences and tastes. You’ll learn how to whip these up in no time, add your personal touch, and enjoy every last crumb.

What Is Delicious S’mores Gingerbread Cookie Bars Recipe?

The **Delicious S’mores Gingerbread Cookie Bars** represent a delightful mash-up of flavors and textures, marrying the **richness** of chocolate and the comforting warmth of spice-infused **gingerbread**. This dessert is inspired by traditional s’mores, consisting of layered graham crackers, chocolate, and melted marshmallows, but crafted into a **bar format** that’s convenient and easy to serve.

Typically, you’ll find the base made from a **gingerbread cookie dough** that’s both soft and slightly chewy—thanks to the addition of butter and eggs. The use of **brown sugar** enhances the flavor profile, giving it a more complex sweetness that complements the spice. As you layer chocolate and marshmallows on top, the bars become even more decadent. The marshmallows caramelize slightly during baking, creating a delightful texture contrast against the cookie base.

These bars are not just visually appealing with their golden edges and melted chocolate; they also evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of childhood camping trips. Perfect for family gatherings, they promise smiles all around as they capture the essence of **comfort food** with an irresistible twist.

Why You’ll Love This

There are several compelling reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for these bar cookies. For starters, the **taste** is simply phenomenal—the spiced gingerbread base meets the classic flavors of chocolate and marshmallows, creating an explosion of sweetness that dances on your palate. This recipe balances **flavors** in a way that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it a perfect treat for everyone to enjoy.

In terms of **ease**, preparation doesn’t take a lot of time or skill. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned baker, the step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process seamlessly. Moreover, the ingredients are generally **affordable** and easy to find, making this a great option for budget-conscious families.

You might think that dessert options are limited when it comes to dietary restrictions, but this recipe offers substantial versatility. It can easily be customized to fit a variety of needs, whether you’re looking to make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan. Never fear—you can still enjoy a delicious treat tailored just for you!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• All-purpose flour: This acts as the foundation of your cookie bars. It provides structure and texture.
• Ground ginger: Essential for that classic gingerbread flavor, its warm spice is what sets this dessert apart.
• Cinnamon: Another key spice that complements the ginger, adding warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Baking soda: This ingredient helps the bars rise and maintain a soft and chewy texture.
• Salt: A small amount enhances all the flavors and brings out the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Gives richness and moisture to your bars, making them extra indulgent.
• Brown sugar: This adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor, which is crucial for that gingerbread essence.
• Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness with its pure sugar taste.
• Eggs: They bind the ingredients, contributing to the cookie’s structure.
• Mini chocolate chips: The chocolate element of s’mores, giving extra sweetness and gooeyness.
• Mini marshmallows: When melted, they create that classic s’mores texture, providing a chewy and sweet contrast.
• Graham cracker crumbs: Adds a crunchy texture that mimics traditional s’mores, enhancing flavor and overall enjoyment.

How to Make

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies start baking evenly as soon as they are ready to go into the oven.
2. Prepare the baking dish: Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the cookie bars out after they’ve cooled, allowing for a mess-free presentation.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps; a uniform mixture will ensure even baking.
4. Cream the butter and sugars: In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air into your batter, resulting in a lighter final product.
5. Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mixing well at this stage will help to create a smoother dough.
6. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring softly until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this could lead to tough cookie bars.
7. Fold in chocolate chips and graham cracker crumbs: Gently fold the mini chocolate chips and graham cracker crumbs into the dough. This is where your bars will start to take on that s’mores characteristic.
8. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the dough into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly into the corners. Smooth out the top with a spatula to ensure that they bake evenly.
9. Bake the bars: Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes. At this point, remove from the oven and quickly sprinkle the mini marshmallows on top. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and the marshmallows have puffed up.
10. Cool and slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before using the parchment overhang to lift them out. Once cool, slice them into squares and serve warm or at room temperature for optimal enjoyment.

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free Version: If you need a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a **gluten-free flour blend**. Make sure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum, which will help replicate the texture of regular flour. You may also want to reduce the amount slightly, as gluten-free flours can sometimes absorb more liquid.

Dairy-Free Option: For those avoiding dairy, consider replacing **butter** with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. Also, choose **dairy-free chocolate chips**. Your bars will still be delicious but with a different but equally satisfying flavor profile.

Nut Additions: If you’re a nut lover, adding **chopped walnuts or pecans** can add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the bars. Just be aware that this change will slightly alter the texture but will enhance the overall flavor. Nuts also add extra nutrients and healthy fats.

No-Bake Version: If you’re looking for a simpler, no-bake variation, consider creating a **no-bake s’mores bar** using a similar crust made from graham cracker crumbs, mixed with melted butter and a bit of sugar. Press this mixture into the bottom of a pan, then layer with melted chocolate and marshmallows before chilling until set.

Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of **cayenne pepper** or **chili powder** to your dry mixture. This unexpected twist will not only brighten the flavors but also adds a unique depth to the gingerbread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your **Delicious S’mores Gingerbread Cookie Bars**, there are a few pitfalls to dodge to guarantee that your bars come out just right.

First, **overmixing** the dough can lead to tough bars. As soon as the ingredients are combined, stop mixing. The moisture needed to create the ideal texture will be there without excessive stirring.

Second, you might be tempted to skip the **cooling** step before slicing. Allowing the bars to sit for at least 15-20 minutes not only helps them firm up but also makes slicing easier and results in cleaner edges.

Another common mistake is not fully **measuring flour** correctly. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Do not scoop directly from the bag—this may lead to too much flour and dense bars.

Lastly, **baking time varies** from oven to oven. Always start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recommended time. Look for golden edges and a firm center that springs back lightly when pressed.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

Proper food storage is essential for maintaining the freshness and quality of your **Delicious S’mores Gingerbread Cookie Bars**. Once completely cooled, you can keep these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you plan to store them longer, consider freezing them.

To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for that gooey texture.

If you choose to reheat, be mindful not to overcook, as this can dry them out. A few seconds in the microwave or a quick spin in the oven will warm them without compromising their delectable texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These cookie bars not only taste great fresh but also get better as they sit. You can bake them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just be sure to let them cool completely before covering, which helps to lock in moisture.

Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! While mini chocolate chips are great, you can mix in dark, milk, or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile. If you opt for white chocolate, consider adding an extra hint of spices to maintain the gingerbread essence.

What can I serve with these bars?
These cookie bars are wonderful on their own, but serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate this dessert experience. The contrast in temperature and texture adds an exciting twist.

Is there a way to make these bars vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the eggs with **flax eggs** (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg). Just make sure you also use dairy-free chocolate chips and vegan butter.

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?
While fresh ginger brings an aromatic zing that is delightful, you may not achieve the same flavor intensity as ground ginger would provide. If using fresh, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste, keeping in mind texture as well.

Conclusion:

These **Delicious S’mores Gingerbread Cookie Bars** are indeed a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make for the perfect treat. From the easy prep to the comforting, nostalgic flavors, you will find that these bars are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of good times and good food.

You’re encouraged to personalize this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs or to share it with friends and family at your next gathering. So, roll up your sleeves, get ingredients ready, and prepare to indulge in this sweet creation that will have everyone asking for seconds!