Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

If you’re looking for a holiday treat that combines all your favorite festive flavors in one delicious bite, Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars are exactly what you need. These bars bring together the cozy spices of gingerbread, the gooey sweetness of marshmallows, and the rich melt of chocolate, creating an irresistible dessert perfect for sharing around the season. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or cool with a cup of cocoa, Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars deliver the ultimate indulgence that’s both nostalgic and uniquely scrumptious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive flavor fusion: Combines the warm spices of gingerbread with classic s’mores ingredients for a uniquely delicious holiday treat.
• Easy to prepare: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe perfect even for kitchen beginners.
• Perfect texture: Soft and chewy cookie base topped with gooey marshmallows and melted chocolate for a delightful mouthfeel.
• Great for sharing: These bars cut into perfect squares, making them an excellent dessert option for parties or gifts.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with variations to suit dietary needs or personal taste preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward yet essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color in your Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars. From aromatic spices to rich chocolate chips, these ingredients come together to create that perfect holiday indulgence.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base while keeping the bars tender and soft.
• Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves: Signature spices that give gingerbread its warm, inviting flavor.
• Molasses: Adds depth and a beautiful rich brown color to the cookie layer.
• Butter: Ensures moisture and a slight crispness along the edges when baked.
• Brown sugar: Brings natural sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor.
• Mini marshmallows: For that gooey, toasted s’mores topping that melts perfectly over the bars.
• Chocolate chips or chunks: Classic component providing creamy, melty bursts of chocolate in every bite.
• Baking soda and salt: Help with texture and flavor balance.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.

Variations for Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

One of the best things about Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars is how easy it is to customize them based on your ingredients on hand, dietary restrictions, or flavor preferences. Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own!

• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a crowd-pleasing alternative.
• Vegan adaptation: Use dairy-free butter, egg replacer, and vegan marshmallows to make it plant-based.
• Nut twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough for a crunchy surprise.
• Extra chocolatey: Layer additional chocolate chips on top for a decadent double chocolate effect.
• Spiced up: Increase the amount of warming spices like cinnamon or cloves for a bolder gingerbread taste.

How to Make Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by creaming together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and molasses until fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet, forming a soft gingerbread cookie dough.

Step 2: Spread the Dough

Press the cookie dough evenly into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan, making sure the surface is smooth and compact to create a sturdy base for the toppings.

Step 3: Add Chocolate and Marshmallows

Sprinkle a generous layer of chocolate chips over the dough, followed by an even layer of mini marshmallows to cover the top. This combination will create that signature s’mores texture and flavor once baked.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the bars in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until the gingerbread base is set and marshmallows are lightly toasted and gooey.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares to set the layers and make clean cuts.

Pro Tips for Making Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for 20 minutes before pressing it into the pan to prevent spreading during baking.
• Use fresh spices: For the best gingerbread flavor, make sure your ground spices are fresh and aromatic.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the marshmallows so they stay gooey and don’t burn.
• Cut while warm: If you want softer edges, slice the bars slightly warm; for cleaner cuts, wait until fully cool.
• Upgrade chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate chips or chunks for richer flavor that melts perfectly.

How to Serve Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Garnishes

Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a beautiful finish that makes these bars even more enticing on the holiday dessert table.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa, spiced chai tea, or classic eggnog to complement the cozy flavors and create an inviting atmosphere.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer the bars in decorative tins wrapped with festive ribbons for gifting, or stack them on a rustic wooden board with fresh cranberries and pine sprigs for charming holiday decor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Freezing

Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to freeze for up to two months; thaw overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm bars in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds to revive that melty marshmallow goodness.

FAQs

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?

Yes, but mini marshmallows melt more evenly and create a better gooey layer; if using regular-sized, chop them up for a similar effect.

Are Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars suitable for kids?

Absolutely! These bars are kid-friendly, both in flavor and texture, making them a great holiday treat for all ages.

Can I make these bars nut-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally nut-free, but always double-check your ingredients and kitchen environment to avoid cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.

How spicy are these bars?

The warmth from the gingerbread spices is balanced and mild, enhancing the sweetness without overwhelming the palate.

What’s the best pan size to use?

A 9×9 inch or an 8×8 inch square baking pan works perfectly for these bars, giving a nice thickness and easy slicing.

Final Thoughts

Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars are the kind of treat that bring warmth, nostalgia, and irresistible flavor to any occasion, especially around the holidays. With their simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless customization options, these bars quickly become a beloved go-to for festive gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite holiday indulgence!

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