Ultimate Costco S’mores Cookies Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Bliss
S’mores cookies combine the classic campfire treat with the convenience of a cookie, offering a delightful experience in every bite. These cookies capture the essence of s’mores – gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and a hint of graham cracker – all baked into a soft, chewy cookie. This recipe is inspired by the incredibly popular Costco S’mores Cookies but provides a detailed, easy-to-follow guide to recreating them at home. This ensures you can enjoy them fresh from your oven anytime the craving strikes.
This guide is designed to take you through each step, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve perfect s’mores cookies. We’ll cover everything from ingredient selection to baking tips, promising a batch of cookies that will impress friends, family, and even yourself! Get ready to embark on a baking adventure that ends with a delicious reward: homemade s’mores cookies that rival the store-bought variety.
Why This Recipe Works
Several factors contribute to the success of this Costco S’mores Cookies inspired recipe:
* **High-Quality Ingredients:** Using good chocolate, fresh marshmallows, and real butter makes a significant difference in the final product. It adds richness and depth of flavor.
* **Proper Mixing Techniques:** The creaming method, where butter and sugar are creamed together until light and fluffy, is crucial for creating a soft and tender cookie base. Overmixing should be avoided to prevent tough cookies.
* **Chilling the Dough:** Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender cookie. It also prevents the cookies from spreading too thin during baking.
* **Strategic Placement of S’mores Elements:** Careful placement of marshmallows, chocolate chunks, and graham cracker pieces ensures a balanced distribution of flavors and textures in each cookie.
* **Perfect Baking Time:** The key is to bake the cookies until they are just set around the edges and still slightly soft in the center. This ensures a soft and chewy texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start baking, gather all your ingredients. This will streamline the process and prevent any mid-baking surprises. Here’s what you’ll need:
* **For the Cookies:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* ¾ cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup milk chocolate chips (or chunks, for a more authentic Costco feel)
* 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for added depth)
* **For the S’mores Filling:**
* 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows
* 6 graham crackers, broken into small squares (approximately ½ inch)
**Ingredient Notes:**
* **Butter:** Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of the cookies. Make sure it’s properly softened, but not melted. It should be pliable and easy to cream.
* **Sugar:** The combination of granulated and brown sugar contributes to the cookies’ texture and flavor. Brown sugar adds moisture and a slightly chewy texture.
* **Chocolate:** You can use chocolate chips or chocolate chunks, depending on your preference. Chunks provide a more intense chocolate experience, similar to the Costco cookies.
* **Graham Crackers:** Regular graham crackers work best. Avoid using honey graham crackers, as they may be too sweet. Break them into relatively small pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the cookies.
* **Marshmallows:** Mini marshmallows are ideal because they melt more evenly. You can also use regular-sized marshmallows, but you’ll need to cut them into smaller pieces.
Equipment Required
* Large mixing bowl
* Electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Baking sheets
* Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
* Cookie scoop (optional, for uniform cookies)
* Wire rack for cooling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get baking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your own delicious Costco S’mores Cookies.
**Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugars**
* In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients until light and fluffy. This process usually takes 3-5 minutes. The mixture should be pale in color and have a light, airy texture. This step is critical for creating a tender cookie.
**Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla**
* Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated into the butter and sugar mixture. This will create a smooth and emulsified batter.
**Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients**
* In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
**Step 4: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients**
* Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until the flour is just incorporated, leaving no visible streaks.
**Step 5: Stir in Chocolate Chips**
* Gently fold in the milk chocolate chips (and semi-sweet chocolate chips, if using) until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This adds the crucial chocolate element of the s’mores.
**Step 6: Chill the Dough**
* Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax, preventing the cookies from spreading too thin during baking. It also enhances the flavor of the cookies.
**Step 7: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets**
* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
**Step 8: Scoop and Shape the Cookies**
* Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the dough into balls. Aim for about 2-3 tablespoons of dough per cookie. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading.
**Step 9: Add S’mores Toppings**
* Gently press a few mini marshmallows and graham cracker pieces into the top of each cookie dough ball. Be generous with the toppings, but don’t overcrowd the cookies. The toppings should be evenly distributed across the surface of each cookie.
**Step 10: Bake the Cookies**
* Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. Keep a close eye on the cookies while they are baking to prevent them from burning. The marshmallows should be melted and slightly golden brown.
**Step 11: Cool the Cookies**
* Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent the cookies from breaking apart while they are still warm and soft.
**Step 12: Enjoy!**
* Once the cookies are cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed! These homemade Costco S’mores Cookies are best served fresh and warm.
Tips for Perfect S’mores Cookies
Here are some additional tips to help you achieve perfect s’mores cookies every time:
* **Use a Cookie Scoop:** Using a cookie scoop will ensure that all your cookies are the same size, which will help them bake evenly.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking will result in dry, hard cookies. Bake the cookies until they are just set around the edges and still slightly soft in the center.
* **Adjust Baking Time for Altitude:** If you live at a high altitude, you may need to adjust the baking time. Start by reducing the baking time by a minute or two and check the cookies frequently.
* **Experiment with Chocolate:** Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips would all be delicious additions.
* **Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt:** A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking will enhance the flavors and add a touch of sophistication.
* **Make Them Ahead:** You can make the cookie dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just bring the dough to room temperature before baking.
* **Freeze the Cookies:** Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
* **Customize Your Toppings:** Get creative with your toppings! Try adding chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Variations and Add-Ins
The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different variations and add-ins to create your own unique s’mores cookies.
* **Chocolate Graham Cracker Cookies:** Use chocolate graham crackers instead of regular graham crackers for an extra chocolatey treat.
* **Peanut Butter S’mores Cookies:** Add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the cookie dough for a peanut butter twist.
* **Salted Caramel S’mores Cookies:** Drizzle the baked cookies with salted caramel sauce for a decadent treat.
* **Double Chocolate S’mores Cookies:** Add cocoa powder to the cookie dough for an intensely chocolatey cookie.
* **Nutty S’mores Cookies:** Incorporate chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds into the dough.
* **S’mores Cookie Bars:** Press the cookie dough into a baking pan and bake as a large cookie bar. Cut into squares after cooling. This simplifies the process and provides a slightly different texture.
* **Giant S’mores Cookie:** Make one enormous cookie instead of individual ones. This is great for sharing.
Serving Suggestions
These Costco S’mores Cookies are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to elevate the experience:
* **Warm from the Oven:** Serve the cookies warm from the oven for the ultimate gooey marshmallow experience.
* **With a Glass of Milk:** Pair the cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination.
* **With Ice Cream:** Serve the cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chocolate ice cream for a decadent dessert.
* **As a S’mores Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich:** Sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies for a fun and delicious treat.
* **With Coffee or Hot Chocolate:** Enjoy the cookies with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
* **Gift Them!** Package the cookies in a cute box or bag and give them as a homemade gift.
Troubleshooting Tips
* **Cookies Spreading Too Thin:** If your cookies are spreading too thin, make sure your butter is not too soft. Also, try chilling the dough for a longer period of time.
* **Cookies Too Dry:** If your cookies are too dry, try reducing the baking time or adding a tablespoon of milk to the dough.
* **Marshmallows Burning:** If the marshmallows are burning, try placing a sheet of aluminum foil loosely over the cookies during the last few minutes of baking.
* **Cookies Sticking to the Baking Sheet:** Make sure you are using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking. If the cookies are still sticking, try greasing the baking sheet with butter or cooking spray.
* **Uneven Baking:** Ensure your oven temperature is accurate. Ovens can fluctuate, leading to unevenly baked cookies. Consider using an oven thermometer to verify the temperature.
Storage Instructions
To keep your homemade Costco S’mores Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage instructions:
* **Room Temperature:** Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The texture will be best within the first 24 hours.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cookies can be stored for up to 2 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
* **Calories:** 250-300 per cookie (depending on size and ingredients)
* **Fat:** 12-15g
* **Saturated Fat:** 7-9g
* **Cholesterol:** 30-40mg
* **Sodium:** 150-200mg
* **Carbohydrates:** 30-35g
* **Sugar:** 20-25g
* **Protein:** 2-3g
**Note:** These are approximate values and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
Conclusion
With this detailed guide, you are now fully equipped to create your own batch of incredible Costco S’mores Cookies at home. These cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, sharing with friends and family, or even gifting to loved ones. The combination of soft, chewy cookie dough, melted marshmallows, rich chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers creates a truly unforgettable treat. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a baking adventure that will result in delicious, homemade s’mores cookies that rival the store-bought version. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious results!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
* **Can I use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?**
Yes, but you’ll need to cut them into smaller pieces so they melt evenly.
* **Can I use different types of chocolate?**
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips.
* **Can I make the dough ahead of time?**
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
* **How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?**
Try placing a sheet of aluminum foil loosely over the cookies during the last few minutes of baking.
* **Can I freeze the baked cookies?**
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
* **My cookies are spreading too thin. What am I doing wrong?**
Make sure your butter is not too soft. Also, try chilling the dough for a longer period of time.
* **My cookies are too dry. What can I do?**
Try reducing the baking time or adding a tablespoon of milk to the dough.
* **Do I need to use a stand mixer for this recipe?**
No, a hand mixer works just as well. You can even mix the dough by hand, but it will require more effort.
* **Can I add nuts to the cookies?**
Yes, chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds would be a delicious addition.
* **What is the best way to store the cookies?**
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.