Introduction to Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookie Bars
These Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookie Bars are the ultimate gooey treat that will win over kids and adults alike. A buttery cookie dough base is studded with melty chocolate chips and swirled with pockets of gooey marshmallow for a dessert that’s soft, chewy, and totally over the top. Every bite is a mix of crispy edges, molten centers, and nostalgic flavor. Whether you’re baking for a party, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, these bars deliver serious wow factor.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookie Bars
Rich, chewy, and loaded with chocolate and marshmallow.
No individual scooping—just bake, slice, and serve.
Perfect for bake sales, lunchboxes, or movie nights.
Kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and foolproof.
Sweet, nostalgic, and seriously satisfying.
Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookie Bars
To whip up these delightful Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookie Bars, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookie bars, providing structure and chewiness.
Baking soda: This little leavening agent helps the bars rise, giving them that perfect texture.
Salt: A pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter adds richness and moisture, making the bars irresistibly chewy.
Granulated sugar: This sweetener contributes to the overall sweetness and helps create a lovely golden crust.
Brown sugar: Packed with molasses, it adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this aromatic essence elevates the overall taste, making it more inviting.
Large eggs: They bind everything together and add moisture, ensuring a soft texture.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These are the stars of the show, providing that rich chocolatey goodness.
Mini marshmallows: They melt into gooey pockets of sweetness, creating a delightful surprise in every bite.
Feel free to get creative! You can add chopped nuts for a crunchy texture or swap in dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything you need for printing.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookie Bars
Creating these Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookie Bars is a breeze.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
While it warms up, prepare your baking pan.
Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
This step is crucial for ensuring your cookie bars rise perfectly.
Set this mixture aside for now.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy.
This is where the magic begins, creating a rich base for your bars.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Now, add the large eggs one at a time.
Make sure to mix well after each addition.
This helps to incorporate air, making your bars light and chewy.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
Stir until just combined; don’t overmix!
You want to keep that lovely texture intact.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and mini marshmallows.
Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
This is where the gooey goodness comes into play!
Step 7: Spread and Bake
Spread the cookie dough evenly in your prepared baking pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to be golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes.
This helps them set up nicely.
After cooling, cut them into squares and enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips for Success
Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and a smoother texture.
Don’t overmix the dough; it can lead to tough bars.
For extra gooeyness, slightly underbake by 2-3 minutes.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Equipment Needed
9×13-inch baking pan: Essential for baking your cookie bars. A glass or metal pan works well.
Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry.
Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry ingredients and incorporating air into the batter.
Spatula: Great for folding in chocolate chips and marshmallows.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient measurements for the best results.
Variations
Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the gooeyness.
Dark Chocolate Twist: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense flavor.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Mix in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter for a deliciously nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) to create a vegan-friendly treat.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these cookie bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Serve with a glass of cold milk to enhance the chocolatey goodness.
For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cut into fun shapes for kids’ parties or gatherings.
FAQs about Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookie Bars
Can I make these Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookie Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before baking. This way, you’ll have fresh bars ready to go whenever you need them!
How do I store leftover cookie bars?
To keep your cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw before enjoying!
Can I substitute the mini marshmallows with something else?
Sure! If you’re not a fan of marshmallows, you can replace them with chopped dried fruit or even more chocolate chips. The key is to maintain that chewy texture, so feel free to get creative!
What can I serve with these cookie bars?
These Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookie Bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream or a glass of cold milk. You can also serve them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat!
Are these cookie bars suitable for kids?
<pDefinitely! Kids love the gooey marshmallows and chocolatey goodness. Just be mindful of any allergies, especially if you’re adding nuts or other mix-ins. They’re perfect for birthday parties or after-school snacks!
Final Thoughts
Baking these Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookie Bars is more than just a culinary task; it’s an experience filled with joy and nostalgia.
The aroma wafting through your kitchen will transport you back to simpler times, where sweet treats were a source of happiness.
Each bite offers a delightful combination of chewy cookie, rich chocolate, and gooey marshmallow that brings smiles to faces young and old.
Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them solo, these bars are sure to create lasting memories.
So grab your ingredients and let the magic unfold in your kitchen!
