Cookie Bars are a delightful and indulgent dessert that offers the perfect combination of cookie goodness and delectable toppings. These bars are a variation of traditional cookies, baked in a square baking tin and layered with a luscious marshmallow fluff and rich dark chocolate topping. They are a perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a special celebration or a cozy gathering with loved ones.

The origin of Cookie Bars can be traced back to the popularity of traditional cookies, which have been enjoyed by people for centuries. As baking techniques and recipes evolved, creative bakers started experimenting with new ways to present the beloved cookie. One such innovation was the creation of cookie bars, where cookie dough is pressed into a baking tin to form a single, large cookie that can be easily cut into squares or rectangles.

The addition of marshmallow fluff and chocolate as toppings took the cookie bars to a whole new level of decadence and indulgence. These delightful layers complement the buttery cookie base, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds.

INGREDIENTS

COOKIE:

• 115 grams unsalted butter, softened
• 90 grams brown sugar
• 50 grams caster sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 175 grams plain flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cornflour
• 110 grams milk or dark chocolate chips
• 60 grams smooth peanut butter

MARSHMALLOW FLUFF:

• 4 egg whites, room temperature
• 200 grams caster sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

TOPPING:

• 150 grams good quality dark chocolate

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F). Grease and line a 9-inch square baking tin. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugars with an electric mixer until combined. Add the vanilla extract and egg, and continue to beat until the mixture is soft and creamy. Sift in the flour, baking soda, and cornflour, and gently fold until the dough starts to come together.
2. Stir in the chocolate chips and fold them through the dough. Place all the dough into the prepared tin and press it down and spread it out as evenly as possible.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 – 20 minutes or until the cookie base turns golden brown. Leave it to cool completely.

MARSHMALLOW FLUFF:

1. Fill a medium saucepan with a few inches of water and place it on medium heat. In a small heatproof bowl, add the egg whites, caster sugar, and cream of tartar. Whisk the mixture together. Then place the bowl over the saucepan to create a double boiler effect. Heat the egg whites while whisking gently until the mixture reaches 50°C / 120°F. This should take around 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove the bowl from the saucepan and place the mixture in the base of a stand mixer. Beat on medium speed for approximately 5 minutes or until the mixture becomes fluffy, white, and voluminous. Add the vanilla extract and beat for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Spread the smooth peanut butter over the cooled chocolate chip cookie base. Pour the marshmallow fluff over the peanut butter layer and gently smooth the top with a spatula. Melt the dark chocolate in the microwave, stirring in-between 20-second bursts, and then pour it over the top.
4. Refrigerate the cookie bars for at least 30 minutes or until the chocolate topping sets. Once set, cut the bars into squares or rectangles and serve.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

• Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the beloved flavors of cookies, marshmallow fluff, and chocolate into a single indulgent dessert. The combination of these layers creates a mouthwatering treat that is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and impressing guests with its decadence. Whether enjoyed at a special occasion or simply as a delightful treat, Cookie Bars are sure to be a hit with cookie lovers of all ages.