Name: Gooey Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars for Autumn Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (You can use unsalted for a less salty flavor.); 1 cup Dark Brown Sugar (Provides moisture and sweetness.); 1/4 cup Maple Syrup (Can be swapped with honey.); 1/3 cup Apple Butter (Substitute with additional maple syrup if unavailable.); 1 large Egg (Ensure it's at room temperature.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for best flavor.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can be swapped with gluten-free flour.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust according to preference.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor.); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (Use milk or dark chips as alternatives.); 2 cups Marshmallows (Substitute with marshmallow fluff if preferred.); 1 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt (A sprinkle on top enhances flavor.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of brown sugar wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy autumn days. These Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars are not just another dessert; they are a warm hug of indulgence that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With the gooey, chewy texture that makes you want to reach for just one more piece, these bars blend rich brown sugar cookies with the delightful twist of apple butter. Perfect for gatherings or a quiet evening at home, they offer a quick prep and an impressive wow factor. And let’s not forget the toasted marshmallows that guarantee a melty experience in every bite! Are you ready to elevate your dessert game?

Why Are These Cookie Bars Perfect?

Gooey Texture: The combination of toasted marshmallows and brown sugar creates an irresistible chewiness that melts in your mouth.

Autumn Flavors: Infused with apple butter, these bars encapsulate the essence of fall, making them a delightful choice for seasonal gatherings.

Quick Prep: With a straightforward method, you can whip these up in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with friends or family.

Crowd-Pleaser: Their unique flavor and inviting aroma make them a hit at any gathering, much like these Cotton Candy Cookies.

Versatile: Feel free to experiment with chocolate types or add nuts for added crunch, tailoring each batch to your taste!

Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars Ingredients

• Get ready to indulge in these delicious bars!

For the Base

Salted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; try unsalted for a less salty flavor.
Dark Brown Sugar – Provides caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the cookie bars.
Maple Syrup – Enhances sweetness and adds a unique flavor; can be swapped with honey if needed.
Apple Butter – Acts as a secret ingredient that adds flavor and moisture; substitute with additional maple syrup if unavailable.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together, providing structure; ensure it’s at room temperature.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm flavor; use pure vanilla for best results.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the bars; can be swapped with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm, spicy flavor; adjust according to preference.
Salt – Enhances flavor; a pinch elevates sweetness.

For the Filling and Topping

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds richness and contrast in flavor; use milk or dark chips as alternatives.
Marshmallows – Provides gooey texture when toasted; substitute with marshmallow fluff if you prefer.
Flaky Sea Salt – A sprinkle on top enhances flavor and offers a delightful finishing touch.

As you gather these ingredients, envision the blissful aromas of your kitchen as you create your very own Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars

Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the salted butter and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until it turns a rich golden brown with a nutty aroma, about 3-4 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. Once browned, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly while you preheat the oven.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal later. This will help create a beautiful base for your Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars, leaving you with perfectly baked edges.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter with dark brown sugar, maple syrup, apple butter, the egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until well blended. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Once combined, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Bake Base Layer
Press half of the prepared cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your lined baking pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, until the edges start to set but the center remains soft and slightly underbaked. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that they’re ready for the next step.

Step 5: Toast Marshmallows
Once the base layer is baked, switch your oven to broil mode. Carefully remove the pan and arrange the marshmallows generously over the top, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Broil them for 1-3 minutes, watching closely until they’re golden and toasted, puffing up for that delicious, gooey texture.

Step 6: Finish Baking
Flatten the remaining cookie dough and layer it over the toasted marshmallows, forming an even surface. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. The tops should look golden brown, while the center should remain soft and gooey, ensuring that lovely chewy texture in your Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars.

Step 7: Cool and Cut
Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully lift them out using the parchment paper, and transfer to a cutting board. Once fully cooled, cut into squares and get ready to savor every gooey, delightful bite!

Storage Tips for Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Store cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate your bars in an airtight container, where they can last up to a week while retaining their gooey goodness.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual cookie bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm the bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back their gooey texture.

Expert Tips for Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars

Watch the Broiler: Keep a close eye on the marshmallows while broiling; they can go from golden to burnt in seconds.
Right Consistency: Do not overbake the bars; they should be soft and gooey in the center for that perfect chewy texture.
Chill for Ease: Refrigerating the cookie bars for a few hours will make cutting them into squares much easier.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to swap in different chocolate chips or nuts; this adds variety to your toasted marshmallow brown sugar cookie bars.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh apple butter and pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavors and ensure the best taste.

What to Serve with Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars

These delightful bars are more than just a treat; they set the stage for a comforting and joyful meal experience that wraps you in warmth.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream balances the sweetness and enhances each gooey bite with a luscious chill.
Hot Apple Cider: The spiced warmth of hot apple cider complements the autumn flavors perfectly, creating a cozy pairing for chilly evenings.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, a mix of seasonal fruits cuts through the sweetness, adding a vibrant contrast to your dessert.
Chocolate Mint Tea: Sip on this soothing herbal blend that echoes the rich flavors of chocolate, providing a refreshing finish after indulging.
Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty crunch of these bars echoes the chewy goodness of the cookie bars, creating a delightful dessert duo that’s hard to resist.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: The rich, spiced flavor of this popular drink aligns beautifully with the autumn essence of the cookie bars, enhancing the seasonal experience.
Cheesecake Bites: Rich and creamy mini cheesecakes add a luscious texture and taste to the dessert table, inviting guests to try just one more sweet treat.
Caramel Drizzle: A warm drizzle of caramel sauce over the cookie bars adds an indulgent charm, deepening the already rich flavor profile.
Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy with a hint of spice, this topping elevates the cookie bars while adding an element of decadence.

Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookie bars and customize them to suit your taste buds!

Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, like dark, milk, or even white chocolate, to find your perfect sweetness. A blend of chocolates can create a more complex flavor profile that everyone will love.
Flavor Changes: Substitute apple butter with pumpkin butter for a festive fall twist. This simple swap not only enriches the flavor but also adds a touch of spice that complements autumn gatherings.
Nut Additions: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra layer of crunch and flavor. Nuts bring a delightful texture contrast against the gooey marshmallows and chewy cookie base.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to the cookie dough for a surprising hint of heat. This unique combination makes for a captivating flavor experience that will please adventurous eaters.
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make these bars dairy-free. The subtle coconut flavor will blend beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. This makes the recipe accessible for those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing any of the deliciousness.
S’mores-Inspired: Layer graham cracker crumbs under the toasted marshmallows for a s’mores-inspired twist. The texture and flavor will remind you of campfire nights under the stars.

And if you’re looking for more delightful treats, consider trying out these Banana Split Bars or these charming Hashbrown Chaffle New for variation in dessert time!

Make Ahead Options

These Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all the ingredients together, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can bake the base layer of the bars and let it cool, then assemble the marshmallows on top and cover it with the remaining dough for baking later—these can be kept assembled in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven to finish baking as directed, and you’ll enjoy the same gooey, chewy deliciousness with minimal effort!

Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right apple butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting apple butter, look for a brand that uses minimal ingredients and real apples for the best flavor. A deep, rich color often indicates quality. Avoid those with a long list of additives; simplicity is key!

How should I store leftover cookie bars?
It’s best to store your Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal chewiness. If you want them to stay fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they are sealed properly to avoid drying out!

Can I freeze the cookie bars? How do I do it?
Certainly! To freeze your bars, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to regain that lovely gooey texture.

What if my bars are too crumbly after baking?
If your bars turn out crumbly, it may be because the dough was overmixed or not enough liquid was added. To fix this in future batches, mix the dough until just combined, and ensure all your ingredients, especially the apple butter, are at room temperature. This helps achieve that perfect chewy consistency. If the problem persists, consider adding a splash of milk to the mixture for moisture.

Are these cookie bars safe for my dog to eat?
While the ingredients in Toasted Marshmallow Brown Sugar Cookie Bars are safe for humans, they may not be suitable for pets. The sugars and chocolate can be harmful to dogs, so it’s best to keep these delights to yourself and treat your furry friend with a dog-friendly treat instead!

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Yes, very! You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour in this recipe without compromising the taste. Just ensure the blend you’re using contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the texture of regular flour. Adjust baking time if needed, monitoring the bars closely.