If you love the gooey goodness of s’mores, you’re in for a treat! S’mores Stuffed Cookies combine rich chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers into a chewy, warm cookie that will impress anyone. You won’t just be baking; you’ll be creating memories with each bite. Grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this fun and easy recipe that brings a classic campfire snack right to your kitchen!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
When making S’mores stuffed cookies, the right ingredients make all the difference. The butter adds richness, while the sugars sweeten and help with texture. Eggs bind everything together, keeping the cookies soft and chewy.
Using all-purpose flour gives the right structure. Baking soda helps the cookies rise. Salt balances the sweetness, enhancing the flavors. The semisweet chocolate chips and mini marshmallows provide that classic S’mores taste. Lastly, graham cracker crumbs add crunch and flavor.
Substitutions and Alternatives
You can swap some ingredients based on your needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour. If you want vegan cookies, try replacing the butter with coconut oil and the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce.
Feel free to adjust the chocolate too! Dark chocolate or white chocolate can change the flavor. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips or marshmallows if you prefer.
Tools and Equipment Needed
To make these cookies, gather a few tools:
– Mixing bowls
– Measuring cups
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
– Cookie scoop
These tools help create the perfect texture and shape. Mixing bowls are great for combining ingredients, while measuring cups ensure accuracy. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. A cookie scoop helps you portion dough evenly, leading to uniform cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheets
First, let’s get the oven ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While it heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This keeps the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Mixing the Dough
Next, grab a large bowl. Cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Use a mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and fluffy. Now, add in 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. In another bowl, mix together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Blend until just combined, but don’t overmix.
Incorporating S’mores Ingredients
Now comes the fun part! Fold in 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, 1 cup of mini marshmallows, and 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs. This will give your cookies that classic s’mores flavor. Make sure all the goodies are evenly mixed into the dough.
Shaping the Cookies
To shape the cookies, use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon. Place a generous ball of dough on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them. For each cookie, take a small piece of dough and flatten it. Place some mini marshmallows and chocolate chips in the center. Cover it with another piece of dough and seal the edges. Make sure the filling is tucked inside.
Baking Instructions
It’s time to bake! Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven. Bake the cookies for about 10 to 12 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn golden brown while the center stays soft. This will give you a chewy texture. Once done, let them cool for about 5 minutes on the sheets. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm for that gooey s’mores experience!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Cookie Texture
To get soft and chewy cookies, follow these tips:
– Use room temperature butter. This helps blend better with sugars.
– Don’t overmix the dough. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
– Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps cookies hold their shape.
– Bake just until the edges turn golden. The centers should look slightly soft.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watch out for these common mistakes:
– Overmixing the dough can make cookies tough. Mix gently.
– Not measuring flour correctly leads to dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
– Forgetting to preheat the oven means uneven baking. Always check the temperature first.
– Skipping the chilling step can cause flat cookies. Take the time to chill.
Serving Suggestions
Make your S’mores Stuffed Cookies extra special with these ideas:
– Serve on a rustic wooden board for a fun look.
– Add a small bowl of melted chocolate for dipping.
– Pair with extra mini marshmallows for a tasty touch.
– Enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Variations
Flavor Enhancements
You can make these cookies even more fun! Try adding some peanut butter for a rich twist. Just mix in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter when you cream the butter and sugars. This adds a nutty flavor that pairs well with chocolate.
Mint chocolate is another great idea. Use mint chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips. The fresh mint taste gives a cool kick to the cookies. You can also add a few drops of peppermint extract for an extra boost.
Coconut is an exciting option, too! Add 1/2 cup of sweetened shredded coconut to the dough. This will bring a tropical vibe to your treats. These add-ins make your S’mores stuffed cookies unique and delicious.
Seasonal Adjustments
You can change the flavors to match different seasons. In fall, try pumpkin spice! Just add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the dry ingredients. This will give your cookies a warm, cozy taste.
For winter, you might want to try gingerbread flavors. Mix in some ground ginger and cinnamon to create a festive treat. In spring, you can add lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor. Each season brings a chance to enjoy these cookies in a new way.
Mini S’mores Cookies
If you want smaller treats, make mini S’mores cookies! Start by using a tablespoon of dough instead of a larger scoop. Flatten each ball slightly before adding the filling. Use just a couple of mini marshmallows and chocolate chips for the center.
Seal the edges well, so nothing leaks out while baking. Bake them for 8-10 minutes instead of longer. These mini versions are perfect for sharing at parties or as a quick snack. Enjoy the fun of S’mores in a bite-sized treat!
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Cookies
To keep your S’mores stuffed cookies fresh, store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This method helps keep the cookies soft and chewy. If you live in a humid area, consider using the fridge. You can stack them in a container with parchment paper between layers. This way, the cookies won’t stick together.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze both unbaked dough and baked cookies. For unbaked dough, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet. Freeze the balls for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They will keep for up to three months. For baked cookies, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They can also last up to three months in the freezer.
How Long Will They Last?
When stored properly, S’mores stuffed cookies can last about a week at room temperature. In the fridge, they may stay fresh for about two weeks. If you freeze them, expect them to taste great for three months. Always check for signs of freezer burn or off smells when defrosting. Enjoy the cookies at their best!
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. You can mix the dough and chill it in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to bake, just scoop and bake. If you want to freeze the dough, shape it into balls and freeze them. Bake directly from the freezer. Just add a couple of minutes to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies anytime!
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, don’t worry! You can add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is easier to handle. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can also help firm it up. Make sure to use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion the dough. Wetting your hands can help too!
Can I use another type of chocolate?
Definitely! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate. Each type of chocolate brings a different taste. Milk chocolate adds sweetness, while dark chocolate gives a richer flavor. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite combo. Your S’mores Stuffed Cookies will still be delicious!
Is it possible to make these cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can make these cookies without eggs if you need a vegan option. You can replace each egg with a flax egg. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. You can also use applesauce or mashed banana as an egg substitute.
What is the best way to enjoy S’mores Stuffed Cookies?
The best way to enjoy S’mores Stuffed Cookies is warm from the oven. You can serve them with extra toppings, like melted chocolate or more mini marshmallows. Try dipping them in chocolate for an extra treat! You can also pair them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a cozy snack.
These S’mores Stuffed Cookies are easy to make and fun to enjoy. Using simple ingredients, you can create a tasty treat that will please everyone. Remember to experiment with substitutions and variations to find your perfect flavor. Store or freeze them as needed to keep them fresh. With these tips, you can avoid common mistakes and serve your cookies just right. Enjoy every bite of this gooey, chocolatey delight!
