Who doesn’t love the gooey, chocolatey goodness of S’mores or the rich, fudgy delight of brownies? Now, imagine combining these two classic treats into one irresistible dessert—S’mores Brownies! This indulgent treat layers a crunchy graham cracker crust, a rich chocolate brownie center, and a perfectly toasted marshmallow topping for the ultimate dessert experience.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about S’mores Brownies, from their origin and key ingredients to step-by-step instructions, variations, and expert tips for getting the perfect texture and flavor. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family gathering, or just treating yourself, this guide will help you create a batch of S’mores Brownies that everyone will love.
What Are S’mores Brownies?
The Origin of S’mores and Brownies
S’mores have been a campfire favorite for generations, with their roots traced back to early 20th-century camping traditions. The name itself comes from the phrase “some more” because, let’s be real—one is never enough! Traditionally, s’mores consist of melted chocolate and toasted marshmallow sandwiched between two graham crackers.
Meanwhile, brownies are an all-American dessert, first created in the late 19th century. Known for their chewy, fudgy texture, they’ve become a staple in bakeries and home kitchens alike.
Put them together, and you’ve got S’mores Brownies—a genius mash-up that brings together the nostalgic flavors of a campfire treat with the rich decadence of a classic brownie.
Why This Mash-Up Works So Well
What makes S’mores Brownies so irresistible? It’s all about texture and flavor contrast! The crunchy graham cracker crust gives way to a moist, chocolatey brownie, topped with soft, gooey marshmallows. Every bite is a mix of crisp, chewy, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Plus, this dessert is a great way to enjoy the classic s’mores experience without a campfire. No need for skewers or open flames—just your oven and a sweet tooth!
What Makes a Great S’mores Brownie?
The secret to perfect S’mores Brownies lies in three key factors:
- A well-balanced crust: The graham cracker base should be buttery and crisp, not too thick or too crumbly.
- A rich, fudgy brownie layer: Skip dry, overbaked brownies! The chocolate layer should be dense, gooey, and packed with deep cocoa flavor.
- Perfectly toasted marshmallows: Lightly golden with a delicate crispness on the outside and a soft, pillowy inside—just like a campfire-roasted marshmallow.
With these elements in place, you’ll have a batch of S’mores Brownies that’s nothing short of heavenly!
Ingredients Needed for S’mores Brownies
Graham Cracker Crust: The Crunchy Base
A sturdy yet crumbly graham cracker crust is the foundation of any great S’mores Brownies. This layer mimics the classic s’mores experience, providing the perfect contrast to the soft and gooey brownie. To make it, you’ll need:
- Graham cracker crumbs (finely crushed for a firm crust)
- Melted butter (binds the crumbs together)
- A little sugar (enhances the flavor)
The Brownie Layer: Fudgy vs. Chewy
The heart of S’mores Brownies is the rich, chocolatey middle. But should it be fudgy or chewy? That depends on your preference! A fudgy brownie has more butter and chocolate, while a chewier brownie relies on a bit more flour. Key ingredients include:
- Cocoa powder or melted chocolate (for deep chocolate flavor)
- Sugar and eggs (for structure and moisture)
- Butter or oil (oil creates a moist texture, while butter adds richness)
- A touch of vanilla extract (enhances the overall taste)
Marshmallow Topping: Classic vs. Alternative Toppings
No S’mores Brownies are complete without a toasted marshmallow topping! The traditional way is to use mini marshmallows, but there are alternatives:
- Regular marshmallows: Slice them in half for a larger toasted effect.
- Marshmallow fluff: Creates a more gooey topping that spreads evenly.
Optional Add-Ins: Nuts, Extra Chocolate, and More
Want to customize your S’mores Brownies? Try these tasty add-ins:
- Chocolate chunks or chocolate chips for extra richness
- A sprinkle of sea salt for contrast
- Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch
With the right ingredients, your S’mores Brownies will be packed with flavor and the perfect balance of textures!
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make S’mores Brownies
Prepping the Crust: Getting the Perfect Graham Cracker Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a square baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the crust by mixing graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until the texture resembles wet sand.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan using the back of a spoon or the base of a glass.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until slightly golden. Set aside to cool.
Mixing and Baking the Brownie Layer
- Melt butter and chocolate (or cocoa powder) together until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
- Whisk eggs and sugar in a separate bowl until light and fluffy. This helps create a slightly crackly brownie top.
- Add vanilla and salt, then gradually mix in the melted chocolate mixture.
- Sift in flour and gently fold until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies soft.
- Pour the batter over the baked graham cracker crust, smoothing it out evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Adding the Marshmallow Topping and Achieving the Perfect Toast
- Remove brownies from the oven and immediately sprinkle a layer of chocolate chips on top.
- Cover with mini marshmallows, ensuring an even layer.
- Turn on the oven’s broiler and place the pan on the top rack for about 30–60 seconds until the marshmallows turn golden brown. (Watch closely to prevent burning!)
Tips for Cutting and Serving Without a Sticky Mess
- Let the brownies cool completely before slicing to prevent the marshmallow layer from sticking to your knife.
- For cleaner cuts, grease the knife with cooking spray or run it under hot water before each slice.
And there you have it—a batch of gooey, chocolatey S’mores Brownies that taste like a campfire treat in every bite!
Variations of S’mores Brownies
Who says you have to stick to the classic recipe? While traditional S’mores Brownies are delicious on their own, there are plenty of creative twists you can try to make them even more exciting. Whether you want a shortcut version, a healthier alternative, or a mini-sized treat, there’s a variation for everyone!
Boxed Mix vs. Homemade Brownies: Pros and Cons
Want to save time? A boxed brownie mix can make your baking process much easier. Simply prepare the mix as instructed, pour it over your graham cracker crust, and follow the same steps for adding marshmallows.
Pros of using boxed mix:
- Faster prep time
- Consistent results
- Less cleanup
Cons of using boxed mix:
- Less control over flavor and texture
- Often contains preservatives
For a more customized and decadent dessert, a homemade brownie base is the way to go!
S’mores Brownie Bars: Perfect for Parties
If you want a more structured version of S’mores Brownies, try making them into bars!
- Use a rectangular baking pan for easy slicing.
- Chill before cutting to ensure clean edges.
- Wrap individual bars for grab-and-go treats at picnics and parties.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Alternatives
Want to make S’mores Brownies gluten-free or vegan? No problem!
- Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.
- Swap out regular flour for almond or oat flour.
- Choose vegan marshmallows and a dairy-free brownie recipe.
S’mores Brownie Bites: A Miniature Version
For a fun twist, turn S’mores Brownies into bite-sized treats!
- Use a muffin tin instead of a baking pan.
- Press the graham crust into each cup.
- Bake for less time (about 15–18 minutes) since they’re smaller.
These mini versions are great for parties, school lunches, or anytime snacking.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
How Long Do S’mores Brownies Last?
If stored properly, S’mores Brownies can stay fresh for up to 4–5 days at room temperature. However, since they have a soft marshmallow topping, they’re best enjoyed within the first two days for the best texture.
Can You Make Them Ahead of Time?
Yes! If you want to prep them in advance, here’s what you can do:
- Make the brownie and crust layers ahead of time, then add the marshmallows and broil them right before serving.
- Store the brownies (without the marshmallow topping) in an airtight container for a day or two before finishing them.
Best Ways to Store and Reheat S’mores Brownies
To keep them fresh, store S’mores Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. If your kitchen is warm, you may want to refrigerate them.
For the best texture when reheating:
- Use an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to slightly re-toast the marshmallows.
- Avoid microwaving, as it can make the marshmallows rubbery.
By following these storage tips, you can keep your S’mores Brownies tasting just as delicious as the day you made them!
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even the best bakers can run into trouble when making S’mores Brownies. From soggy crusts to burnt marshmallows, small missteps can affect the final result. But don’t worry! Here’s how to avoid the most common mistakes.
Soggy Graham Cracker Crust: How to Keep It Crisp
A mushy crust can ruin the texture of S’mores Brownies, but there’s a simple fix!
- Pre-bake the crust for at least 8–10 minutes before adding the brownie batter. This step helps set the graham crackers and prevents them from becoming too soft.
- Use enough butter to bind the crumbs together. If the crust is too dry, it can fall apart, but too much butter can make it greasy.
- Let the crust cool completely before pouring in the brownie batter to avoid steam softening it.
Brownies That Are Too Dry or Too Gooey
Brownies should be fudgy, not dry or undercooked. To get the perfect texture:
- Check baking time carefully. Overbaking will dry them out, while underbaking makes them too soft. The edges should be set, but the center should have a slight jiggle.
- Use the toothpick test. If it comes out with wet batter, they need more time. If it has a few moist crumbs, they’re done!
Preventing Burnt or Undercooked Marshmallows
Getting that golden, toasty marshmallow topping can be tricky.
- Use the oven broiler, but watch closely! Marshmallows burn quickly, so they only need 30–60 seconds under direct heat.
- Keep an even layer. Piling marshmallows too high can cause some to burn while others remain uncooked. Spread them in a single layer for even toasting.
Pairing and Serving Ideas
S’mores Brownies are already delicious on their own, but the right pairings can take them to the next level. Whether you’re serving them at a party or just treating yourself, here are some great ways to enjoy them.
Best Drinks to Pair with S’mores Brownies
A rich, chocolatey dessert like S’mores Brownies pairs best with:
- Milk: A cold glass of milk balances the sweetness and enhances the fudgy texture.
- Hot cocoa: Double up on chocolate for the ultimate cozy treat.
- Coffee: A slightly bitter cup of coffee cuts through the richness, making each bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Serve: Ice Cream, Caramel Drizzle, and More
Looking to make S’mores Brownies even more indulgent? Try these serving ideas:
- With a scoop of ice cream: A warm brownie with a cold scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream is a match made in dessert heaven.
- Drizzled with caramel or chocolate sauce: Add a drizzle of caramel or melted chocolate for an extra layer of decadence.
- Sprinkled with crushed graham crackers: For added crunch and even more s’mores flavor, sprinkle some extra crushed graham crackers on top before serving.
No matter how you serve them, S’mores Brownies are guaranteed to impress. So, grab a plate and enjoy every gooey, chocolatey bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When making S’mores Brownies, you might run into a few common questions. To make things easier, here are some of the most frequently asked questions, answered!
Can I Use Large Marshmallows Instead of Mini Marshmallows?
Yes! Large marshmallows work just as well, but they will take longer to melt. To get even toasting:
- Slice them in half before adding them to the brownies.
- Broil carefully to prevent burning. Large marshmallows tend to brown faster on the outside while staying firm inside.
If you prefer an extra gooey topping, try using marshmallow fluff instead!
What’s the Best Way to Cut S’mores Brownies Without Making a Mess?
Because of the sticky marshmallow topping, cutting S’mores Brownies can be tricky. Here’s how to get clean slices:
- Let them cool completely. Warm marshmallows will stick to the knife and create a mess.
- Grease your knife with cooking spray or butter before slicing.
- Use a hot knife. Run your knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and then cut for smooth edges.
Can I Freeze S’mores Brownies for Later?
Yes! However, the marshmallow topping can become chewy after freezing. To freeze successfully:
- Freeze the brownies without marshmallows and add the topping after thawing.
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container.
- Thaw at room temperature before adding and toasting the marshmallows for the best texture.
What’s a Good Substitute for Graham Crackers in the Crust?
If you can’t find graham crackers, don’t worry! You can substitute them with:
- Digestive biscuits (a great option for UK bakers).
- Vanilla wafers for a slightly sweeter crust.
- Oatmeal cookies, crushed into fine crumbs.
No matter which substitute you choose, just make sure to mix it with melted butter to form a firm crust.
Final Thoughts on S’mores Brownies
S’mores Brownies are the ultimate dessert mash-up, combining the nostalgia of campfire s’mores with the richness of classic brownies. With a buttery graham cracker crust, a fudgy chocolate center, and a gooey toasted marshmallow topping, every bite is a perfect mix of textures and flavors.
Whether you make them from scratch, use a boxed brownie mix, or try one of the fun variations, these brownies are always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re easy to customize! Want a gluten-free version? Swap out the graham crackers. Need a quick fix? Use a brownie mix.
The best part? You don’t need a campfire to enjoy them! Just a few simple ingredients and an oven are all it takes to bring this classic treat into your kitchen.
So, the next time you’re craving something sweet, chocolatey, and absolutely irresistible, whip up a batch of S’mores Brownies. They’re guaranteed to disappear fast.