Name: Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 115 g unsalted butter, browned; 107 g packed brown sugar; 25 g granulated sugar; 1 large egg, room temperature; 15 ml molasses; 2.5 ml vanilla extract; 170 g all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; 2.5 ml baking soda; 5 ml ground cinnamon; 2.5 ml ground ginger; 1.25 ml ground allspice; 0.6 ml ground nutmeg; 1.25 ml salt; 135 g semisweet chocolate chips, plus extra for topping; 90 ml liquid egg whites; 150 g granulated sugar; 5 ml cream of tartar; 2.5 ml vanilla extract

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Introduction to Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Welcome to the world of Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars! If you’re anything like me, balancing a busy schedule while trying to whip up something delightful can feel like an Olympic event. That’s why I adore these cookie bars – they blend the comforting flavors of gingerbread and the classic gooey goodness of s’mores in a quick and easy dessert. Perfect for when you want to impress your friends or simply treat yourself after a long day. And the best part? They’re incredibly simple to make, so let’s dive into this cozy adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

These Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars are a sweet escape from the chaos of everyday life. They come together in just an hour, making them a fantastic choice for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings. With their chewy, spiced cookie base and fluffy, toasted meringue topping, each bite is an explosion of flavor. Plus, the delightful aroma fills your home, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia, like a hug on a chilly day.

Ingredients for Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

To recreate these scrumptious Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars, you’ll need a delightful mix of ingredients that each play a role in the symphony of flavors and textures.

Unsalted Butter: This will be the foundation of your chewy cookie base. Browning it adds depth and a nutty flavor.
Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar brings moisture and sweetness, complementing the spices perfectly.
Granulated Sugar: A little granulated sugar balances the flavors and adds to the cookie’s lovely texture.
Egg: One large egg is crucial for binding everything together and providing that lovely richness.
Molasses: This essential ingredient gives a deep sweetness and that classic gingerbread flavor.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds warmth.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the bars, helping to create that perfect chewy texture.
Baking Soda: This little powerhouse helps your cookie bars rise and achieves the ideal consistency.
Ground Cinnamon: Bringing warmth and comfort, cinnamon is a must-have in any gingerbread recipe.
Ground Ginger: Packed with zing, ground ginger enhances the gingerbread flavor profile of these bars.
Ground Allspice: This spice adds complexity, giving the bars a little something special.
Ground Nutmeg: Just a hint of nutmeg rounds out the spices and elevates the overall flavor.
Salt: A pinch of salt boosts all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: These are the chocolatey stars! Adding extra on top makes the bars even more irresistible.
Liquid Egg Whites: They help create the fluffy meringue topping that contrasts beautifully with the cookie bars.
Granulated Sugar (for meringue): This sugar is essential for stabilizing your meringue, ensuring it holds its shape.
Cream of Tartar: A tiny amount helps to stabilize the egg whites and create that perfect meringue texture.
Vanilla Extract (for meringue): Just like in the bars, vanilla creates a lovely flavor in the meringue as well.

Don’t worry, if you’ve got your favorites on hand or want to swap some ingredients, feel free! In the bottom section of this article, you’ll find the exact measurements to make your baking adventure as smooth as possible.

How to Make Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Making these Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars is a delightful journey that fills your home with sweet aromas. Just follow these simple steps for a delicious treat your family will adore.

Step 1 – Prepare the Pan

Start by lining a 9×23 cm loaf pan with parchment paper. Let the paper hang over the sides for easy removal later. Give it a light spray of non-stick cooking spray to prevent any sticking. Trust me, those small details save us from lots of headaches when it’s time to dig in!

Step 2 – Brown the Butter

In a heavy saucepan, cube your unsalted butter. Melt it over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it foams and turns a beautiful golden brown. This process adds a nutty flavor that’ll elevate your cookie bars. Remember to transfer the browned butter into a heatproof bowl to cool completely. No one wants a greasy mixture!

Step 3 – Combine Wet Ingredients

Once your butter has cooled down, it’s mixing time! Preheat your oven to 175°C. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the browned butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined. Then, add in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and inviting!

Step 4 – Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together your all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and salt. Sifting breaks up any clumps, making sure your dry ingredients mix evenly. A little patience here pays off for the perfect texture!

Step 5 – Combine Everything

Gently fold your dry ingredients into the wet mixture. It’s crucial not to overmix; you’re aiming for a well-combined mix without any flour pockets. Stir in those glorious semisweet chocolate chips until they’re evenly distributed, ensuring each bar has that chocolatey goodness.

Step 6 – Bake the Bars

Spread the dough evenly into your prepared loaf pan, and sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top if you’re feeling indulgent. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn golden brown, and the top looks mostly set. Ah, the sweet smell of baking is simply heavenly!

Step 7 – Make the Meringue

While your bars cool in the pan, it’s time for the meringue magic! Fill a saucepan one-third full with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. In a heatproof bowl, combine the liquid egg whites and granulated sugar. Set the bowl over the simmering water, whisking continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm. This ensures a silky-smooth meringue!

Step 8 – Pipe and Toast Meringue

Transfer the warm egg white mixture to a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Beat on high speed until the mixture thickens and turns opaque. Add cream of tartar and vanilla, continuing to whisk until stiff peaks form. Now, remove your cooled gingerbread slab from the pan and cut it into six bars. Use a piping bag fitted with a 1M tip to pipe decorative swirls of meringue on each bar. For the finishing touch, carefully toast those meringue swirls with a kitchen torch until lightly golden, and voilà! You have a stunning dessert waiting to be devoured.

Tips for Success

Make sure the butter is completely cooled before mixing; it helps the bars stay chewy.
Avoid overmixing the dough to keep those delicious chewy textures intact.
If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can use your oven’s broiler for toasting the meringue.
Let the cookie bars cool fully before adding the meringue for the best texture.
Keep an eye on the bars while baking; every oven is a little different!

Equipment Needed

9×23 cm loaf pan – A square or rectangular baking dish also works.
Parchment paper – You can use aluminum foil, but parchment is best for easy removal.
Heavy saucepan – Any saucepan will do, just ensure it’s heatproof.
Whisk – A hand whisk or electric mixer will both get the job done.
Piping bag with a 1M tip – A plastic bag with a corner cut works too!

Variations

Nutty Additions: Stir in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Vegan Twist: Use coconut oil instead of butter and egg replacements for a plant-based version.
Chocolate Lovers: Add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the meringue for an ultra-decadent treat.
Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or clove, to give your bars a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions for Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Pair with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream adds a delightful creaminess.
Hot Beverages: Serve with hot cocoa or spiced chai for a cozy combination.
Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch on a holiday dessert table.
Garnish: Top with crushed graham crackers for an extra texture contrast.

FAQs about Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars

Let’s tackle some common questions about these delicious Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars. I know that diving into a new recipe can raise many queries, so I’m here to help!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the bars a day in advance. Just wait to add the meringue topping until you’re ready to serve. It keeps that fluffy texture intact and looks great!

What can I substitute for the egg whites in the meringue?

If you need an egg-free alternative, try aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas)! It whips up beautifully and can achieve the same fluffy texture as egg whites.

Can I freeze Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

How do I store the leftover bars?

Store your Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If refrigerated, they can last up to a week!

Can I add other flavorings to the dough?

Feel free to get creative! Adding orange zest or peppermint extract can be an excellent way to give your bars a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

Creating Smores Gingerbread Cookie Bars is not just about baking; it’s about bringing joy and warmth to your home. The delightful combination of chewy gingerbread and sweet, fluffy meringue creates a comforting treat that can turn a hectic day into a cozy occasion. With the heartwarming aromas filling your kitchen, every bite evokes memories of holiday gatherings and family smiles. Share these bars with loved ones, and watch as they savor each mouthwatering piece. Trust me, their delight will make your efforts worthwhile, bringing families together over a sweet taste of nostalgia!