Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars

Indulging in a warm, gooey dessert is one of life’s simple pleasures—and nothing hits the spot quite like Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars! These bars combine the richness of chocolate and the fluffiness of marshmallows, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, these cookie bars stand out with their soft texture and delicious flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just simple steps, anyone can whip up these delicious bars.
• Gooey Goodness: The combination of melted chocolate and marshmallow crème creates an irresistibly gooey center.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into squares and serve at gatherings, ensuring everyone enjoys a sweet bite.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy night in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for evenly baking your cookie bars without burning the edges.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients together without overmixing.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
– 2 cups marshmallow crème
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (for topping)
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil or butter

How to Make Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures easy removal of the cookie bars once baked.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in each of the two eggs, one at a time. Then add in the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into your wet mixture until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips. Then press the dough evenly into your prepared baking dish.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Once done, let cool completely in the pan.

Step 7: Add Marshmallow Crème

Once cooled, spread the marshmallow crème evenly over the cookie base.

Step 8: Melt Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt your semi-sweet chocolate chips with the coconut oil. Heat in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring until smooth.

Step 9: Top with Chocolate

Pour the melted chocolate over the marshmallow layer. Spread it evenly to cover completely.

Step 10: Set Before Serving

Allow your bars to set at room temperature or chill them until firm.

Step 11: Cut and Enjoy!

Finally, cut into squares and enjoy these delightful Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars!

How to Serve Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars

Serving Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars can transform any gathering into a delightful experience. These bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic combination that balances the rich chocolate flavor.
• Mint Chocolate Chip: Offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bars.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• Caramel Drizzle: A warm caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness, enhancing the overall flavor.

Add Fresh Berries

• Raspberries or Strawberries: Fresh berries provide a tart contrast that complements the chocolate and marshmallow.

Serve Warm

• Warm Bars: Slightly warming the bars before serving enhances their gooey texture, making them even more irresistible.

Top with Whipped Cream

• Whipped Cream Dollop: A light topping of whipped cream adds creaminess and cuts through the sweetness beautifully.

How to Perfect Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars

To make sure your Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Boldly Measure Ingredients: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors and textures.
• Chill Dough if Needed: If your dough is too soft, chill it for 15-30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality chocolate and fresh eggs can significantly enhance your bars’ taste.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Oven temperatures can vary; check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Completely Before Topping: Letting the base cool fully helps prevent melting when you add marshmallow crème.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars

Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the bars.
2. Coffee: A cup of strong coffee complements the chocolate flavors wonderfully, making it perfect for dessert time.
3. Milkshake: A thick chocolate or vanilla milkshake adds additional creaminess and indulgence.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a tangy contrast that pairs well with sweet cookie bars.
5. Nut Mix: A blend of roasted nuts brings crunch and saltiness, balancing out the sweet flavors.
6. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, serving alongside a light mousse creates an indulgent dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter can lead to a dense texture. Always use softened, room temperature butter for a light and fluffy batter.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix until just combined to keep your bars tender.
• Not letting them cool: Cutting into warm bars can make them fall apart. Allow your bars to cool completely before slicing.
• Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing the baking dish can result in sticking. Make sure to grease or line your pan for easy removal.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven properly for consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars.

Can I customize my Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars?

Yes! You can add nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or even swap out marshmallow crème for mini marshmallows.

How do I make these cookie bars gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What should I do if my bars are too gooey?

If your bars are too gooey after baking, return them to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until set.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix semi-sweet chocolate with dark or milk chocolate chips according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Marshmallow Cookie Bars are not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with different ingredients or toppings. This recipe promises a warm, gooey treat that is perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying by yourself. Don’t hesitate—give it a try!