Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Delight in chewy Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars with melty marshmallows and chocolate, perfectly balanced with warm gingerbread spices. This recipe combines the nostalgic charm of gingerbread with the gooey goodness of s’mores, creating an irresistible treat ideal for festive occasions or cozy nights in. The chewy texture and the harmony of flavors make these bars a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a memorable twist on traditional holiday sweets.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The blend of ginger, molasses, and cinnamon brings classic holiday warmth to every bite.
• Chewy and Gooey Texture: Soft cookie bars with rich chocolate and melted marshmallows create a perfect treat for any mood.
• Easy to Make: Uses simple pantry staples and straightforward steps that anyone can follow.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cutting into bars makes serving at parties or family gatherings a breeze.
• Customizable: Adapt the recipe with different chocolates or add-ins to suit your tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars recipe plays a crucial role in bringing the perfect texture and flavor. From spicy gingerbread notes to gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate chunks, these ingredients combine to create a magical treat.

• All-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and chewiness to the bars.
• Ground ginger and cinnamon: Essential for capturing the signature gingerbread warmth.
• Baking soda: Helps the bars rise slightly and stay tender.
• Molasses: Adds depth, moisture, and that iconic gingerbread color.
• Butter: Brings richness and helps the bars stay soft yet sturdy.
• Brown sugar: Enhances moisture and caramel undertones.
• Egg: Binds ingredients and adds softness.
• Vanilla extract: Balances spices with a hint of sweetness.
• Mini marshmallows: For pockets of gooey, toasted s’mores magic.
• Chocolate chunks or chips: The melty chocolate that makes every bite indulgent.

Variations for Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to switch ingredients or add extras based on your preferences or dietary needs. It’s a fun way to make this classic dish uniquely yours.

• Vegan version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs for an animal-friendly treat.
• Nutty twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and extra flavor complexity.
• Different chocolates: Use white chocolate or peanut butter chips to change up the flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg for a surprising warm kick.
• Gluten-free option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to keep the bars accessible.

How to Make Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Setting these dry ingredients aside helps ensure even distribution of spices throughout the bars.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a mixer, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy and light in color. This process aerates the mixture, giving the bars a tender texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until the batter becomes smooth and glossy. These ingredients add moisture and the deep, rich flavors characteristic of gingerbread.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tough bars.

Step 5: Spread Dough and Add Toppings

Press half of the dough evenly into a greased baking pan. Sprinkle mini marshmallows and chocolate chunks evenly over this layer, then top with the remaining dough, gently pressing it down to cover the fillings.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake the bars at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until set and golden around the edges. Let the pan cool completely before cutting into squares to preserve the gooey layers.

Pro Tips for Making Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter and egg are at room temp for easier mixing and better texture.
• Don’t overmix dough: To keep bars tender, combine ingredients gently and avoid excess stirring.
• Use quality chocolate: Good-quality chocolate chunks melt better and enhance the overall flavor.
• Even layer pressing: Press the dough evenly so the bars bake uniformly and marshmallows don’t burn.
• Cool fully before cutting: This prevents the marshmallows and chocolate from oozing messy when sliced.

How to Serve Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra mini marshmallows toasted with a kitchen torch adds an appealing finishing touch that instantly makes these bars look irresistible.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a hot cup of spiced chai tea, rich hot cocoa, or a creamy latte for a cozy pairing that complements the warm spices and sweet toppings perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack bars on a festive platter layered with parchment paper, or wrap individual squares in clear cellophane tied with twine, making charming gifts or party favors that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to preserve their chewiness and moisture.

Freezing

Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. They can be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm bars for 10-15 seconds in the microwave to revive the melty marshmallow and chocolate without drying out the cookie portion.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes! Just chop larger marshmallows into smaller pieces to ensure even distribution and melting throughout the bars.

Are these bars suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The sweet flavors, soft texture, and fun s’mores twist make them a hit with children and adults alike.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

What’s the best chocolate for these bars?

Milk, semisweet, or bittersweet chocolate chunks work beautifully, depending on whether you want a sweeter or more intense chocolate flavor.

Can I substitute the molasses?

Molasses is key for authentic gingerbread flavor, but you can substitute with dark corn syrup in a pinch, though the taste will be less intense.

Final Thoughts

These Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the classic charm of gingerbread and the nostalgic joy of s’mores. They’re fun and easy to make, perfect for sharing, and designed to brighten any chilly evening or holiday gathering. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite festive dessert!

Related Posts

• Pistachio Mousse with Chocolate Ganache
• Pumpkin Pie Cookies
• Easy Hawaiian Pineapple Coconut cookies

Print