Ever wondered how to bring the magic of a summer campfire inside? Look no further than these s’mores brownies. They mix rich chocolate, gooey marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers. This recipe turns the classic campfire treat into a dish you can bake at home, great for families and kids who love the outdoors.
These s’mores brownies are quick to make, with prep time around 20 minutes and cooking time of 35 minutes. They make about 16 servings, perfect for parties or to satisfy your sweet tooth all week.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Combines the classic s’mores flavors of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker into a decadent brownie
- Easy to make with a total time of around 1 hour and 48 minutes
- Serves approximately 16 people, perfect for sharing
- Can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 6 months
- Offers a convenient indoor version of the beloved campfire treat
Introduction to S’mores-Inspired Brownies
Chocolate brownie treats with a campfire twist – that’s what s’mores-inspired brownies are all about. They mix the flavors of a classic s’more with the rich taste of homemade brownies. These treats are perfect for satisfying your summer cravings or bringing the campfire feel indoors.
Why These Brownies Are Perfect for Summer
S’mores-inspired brownies are the ultimate summer treat. They offer a cool, creamy chocolate and toasted marshmallow topping. This makes them a great choice for hot summer days. Plus, you don’t need a campfire to enjoy them, making them perfect for any time and place.
The Classic Campfire Treat Transformed
Traditional s’mores are a summertime favorite, but these brownies take it to another level. They combine the graham cracker, chocolate, and marshmallow into a rich, fudgy brownie. This way, you get the nostalgic s’mores flavors with the texture of a homemade brownie.
What Makes These Brownies Special
These s’mores-inspired brownies stand out because they recreate the classic s’mores experience. The graham cracker crust adds a nice crunch, while the melted chocolate and toasted marshmallow topping bring the gooey, toasty notes. They offer a unique twist on a timeless dessert, perfect for satisfying your chocolate and campfire dessert cravings.
“S’mores-inspired brownies are the ultimate summer dessert, combining fudgy brownies with classic s’mores elements.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect S’mores Brownies
Making the best graham cracker brownies or marshmallow brownies needs a mix of key ingredients. A rich, fudgy chocolate brownie base is the foundation. It’s topped with a graham cracker crust and a gooey marshmallow layer.
To get this mix right, you’ll need salted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for the batter. Eggs and vanilla extract add flavor. For structure and chocolate taste, use all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Graham crackers, mini marshmallows, and milk chocolate chips bring the s’mores feel.
For more indulgence, add caramel-filled chocolate squares like Ghirardelli. They add a gooey contrast to the marshmallows and chocolate. For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free butter and chocolate alternatives like Hershey bars or peanut butter cups.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make s’mores brownies that will wow everyone. They’ll take you back to the cozy feeling of a campfire.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salted Butter | ½ cup (113g) |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 ¼ cups (250g) |
| Brown Sugar | ¼ cup (50g) |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tablespoon (13g) |
| All-Purpose Flour | ½ cup (68g) |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder | ⅔ cup (53g) |
| Baking Powder | ½ teaspoon (2g) |
| Whole Graham Crackers | 10 full sheets (about 150g) |
| Mini Marshmallows | 1 ½ cups (340g) |
| Milk Chocolate Chips | 1 cup (170g) |
| Caramel-filled Chocolate Squares (Ghirardelli) | as needed |
The type of cocoa powder you choose affects the taste and texture of your graham cracker brownies. Mixing Dutch-process and black cocoa powders creates a rich, complex flavor.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
When making tasty easy baking recipes like s’mores brownies, you need the right tools. From the perfect baking pan to precise temperature monitoring, each tool is crucial. They help make the brownies gooey and campfire-like.
Baking Pan Recommendations
A 9×13 inch metal baking pan is best for this recipe. It ensures even baking and a fudgy texture. You can also use an 8×8 inch pan, but the brownies will be thicker.
Using parchment paper in the pan makes it easy to remove and cut the brownies.
Temperature Monitoring Tools
An oven thermometer is essential for the right oven temperature. Wrong temperatures can ruin the brownies’ texture and doneness. So, it’s important to watch the temperature closely.
Mixing Equipment
- Mixing bowls in various sizes for preparing the brownie batter and marshmallow topping
- A whisk or electric hand mixer for thoroughly combining the ingredients
- A sturdy spatula for smoothing the batter in the pan and spreading the marshmallow topping
- A kitchen scale for precisely measuring the dry ingredients, like flour, for the perfect fudgy texture
With the right tools and equipment, you’ll make amazing easy baking recipes. They’ll be just like the classic campfire treats.
S’mores Brownies Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Get ready for the ultimate summer treat – easy s’mores brownies that are gooey and full of campfire flavor. Follow these simple steps to make your own gooey s’mores brownies. They will make your taste buds dance with joy.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (300°F convection). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Place a layer of graham crackers at the bottom.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and kosher salt until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks, creating a rich, fudgy batter.
- Carefully pour the brownie batter over the graham cracker layer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Bake the easy s’mores brownies for 36-40 minutes, or until they’re 90% baked through. Let them cool completely, about 2 hours, before topping.
- Once cooled, top the brownies with a layer of chocolate bars or chunks and marshmallows, cut in half.
- Set your oven to broil and place the pan under the heat for 1-3 minutes, keeping a close eye, until the marshmallows are lightly golden and toasted.
- Slice the gooey s’mores brownies and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Enjoy the perfect mix of fudgy chocolate, crunchy graham crackers, and toasted marshmallows in every bite. These easy s’mores brownies are part of the June 2024 baking challenge. They’re sure to become a new summer favorite.
| Nutrition Information (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 303 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
These gooey s’mores brownies are the perfect summer treat to share with friends and family. Enjoy the classic campfire flavors in an easy-to-make, decadent dessert that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Creating the Perfect Graham Cracker Base
For the ultimate chocolate graham cracker brownies, a solid graham cracker base is key. This recipe uses whole graham crackers for a stronger flavor and texture.
Layering Techniques
Begin by lining a 9×9-inch baking pan with a single layer of whole graham crackers. If needed, break them to fit perfectly. This creates a strong base for the easy brownie bars, preventing them from becoming soggy.
Preventing Cracker Sogginess
To keep the graham crackers crunchy, avoid over-wetting them. When making the brownie batter, don’t pour it directly on the crackers. This could make them soft too soon. Instead, gently spread the batter over the crackers, making sure to cover the pan’s edges.
By using these layering tips and avoiding too much moisture, your graham cracker base will stay crisp. This ensures your chocolate graham cracker brownies turn out perfectly.
Mastering the Fudgy Brownie Layer
To make the perfect fudgy brownie layer, follow a few key steps. First, don’t overmix the batter. This can make the brownies too cake-like, which isn’t what you want. Instead, mix the ingredients gently until they just come together.
Getting the flour measurement right is also important. Use a kitchen scale to measure out about 142 grams (5 oz) of all-purpose flour. This will help you achieve the dense, decadent chocolate treats you’re aiming for.
When baking, it’s crucial not to overbake the brownies. Bake them until a toothpick inserted into the edges comes out clean. But, the center should still have some moist crumbs. It’s better to slightly underbake, as the brownies will firm up as they cool.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 170 grams (6 oz) |
| Bittersweet Chocolate | 170 grams (6 oz) |
| Sugar | 212 grams (7.5 oz) |
| Semisweet Chocolate Chips | 115 grams (4 oz) |
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect fudgy brownie layer for your s’mores brownies.
Tips for Perfect Marshmallow Topping
Take your toasted marshmallow brownies to the next level with these expert tips. They help you create a gooey, golden-brown marshmallow topping. The secret is using the right technique and ingredients for the perfect balance.
Broiling Techniques
Choose mini marshmallows for the best results. They’re easier to slice and spread evenly over the brownie. Place the halved marshmallows, sticky-side down, on the cooled brownie.
Preheat your oven’s broiler to 425°F. Keep a close eye on the marshmallows. Broil for 30 seconds to 2 minutes until they’re lightly toasted and golden brown.
Achieving the Perfect Golden Brown
- Broil the marshmallows at the last minute, just before serving, to maintain their soft, gooey texture.
- Rotate the pan occasionally for even browning, and be vigilant to prevent burning.
- For a deeper caramelized flavor, brush the marshmallows with a bit of melted butter or vanilla extract before broiling.
By following these tips, you’ll create a mouth-watering toasted marshmallow topping. It perfectly complements the rich, fudgy brownies. Every bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Your delicious kid-friendly dessert and summer treat, the S’mores Brownies, needs special care. To keep them gooey and fresh, follow these tips.
Serve the S’mores Brownies warm with cold milk for the best experience. Clean your knife between each slice for perfect cuts. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
To restore their warm, gooey texture, reheat the brownies. You can also freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 6 months. Freezing might change the marshmallow topping’s texture.
| Storage Recommendation | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days |
| Refrigerated | Up to 1 week |
| Frozen | Up to 6 months |
Follow these tips to enjoy your S’mores Brownies even after they’re gone. They’re perfect as a kid-friendly dessert or a cool summer treat.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
The classic s’mores brownies recipe is loved by many. But, you can make it your own by changing it up. For a dairy-free version, just replace the butter and chocolate with dairy-free options. Use dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate for a rich brownie layer.
Dairy-Free Options
Make these s’mores brownies dairy-free by using plant-based butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter. Choose dairy-free dark chocolate chips or chunks for the chocolate. You can also swap the milk chocolate topping with dairy-free milk chocolate or white chocolate for a different twist.
Chocolate Alternatives
Try different chocolates to make your own unique s’mores brownies. Swap semisweet chocolate for dark chocolate chips or chunks for a deeper flavor. For something sweeter, use milk chocolate or white chocolate. You can also add peanut butter cups or other candies to the batter for a fun twist. Experiment with different chocolates to find your favorite.
F.A.Q
What are s’mores brownies?
S’mores brownies are a tasty dessert that mixes fudgy brownies with s’mores. They have graham crackers, chocolate, melted chocolate, and toasted marshmallows.
What makes s’mores brownies special?
S’mores brownies bring the campfire to your home. They’re great for summer gatherings and satisfy s’mores cravings all year. The mix of gooey marshmallows, crunchy graham crackers, and rich chocolate is indulgent and flavorful.
What are the key ingredients for s’mores brownies?
Key ingredients include salted butter, sugars, eggs, vanilla, flour, cocoa powder, graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate chips, and caramel-filled chocolate squares. For dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and chocolate.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make s’mores brownies?
You’ll need a 9×13 metal baking pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls, a whisk or mixer, spatula, and an oven thermometer. A kitchen scale helps for a fudgy texture.
How do you make the perfect s’mores brownies?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (325°F convection). Line a 9×13 pan with graham crackers. Mix butter, sugars, cocoa, eggs, and vanilla for the batter. Add flour and salt, then chocolate chips.
Pour the batter over the graham crackers and bake for 38-46 minutes. Cool, then top with chocolate and marshmallows. Broil for 1-3 minutes until marshmallows are golden.
How do you prevent the graham crackers from getting soggy?
Line the baking pan with a single layer of graham crackers. Break pieces to fit if needed. This keeps the brownie layer solid and prevents sogginess.
How do you achieve the perfect fudgy texture for the brownies?
Avoid overmixing the batter and use a kitchen scale for flour. Bake until a toothpick in the edges comes out clean but the center is moist. Underbaking slightly is better.
How do you get the perfect toasted marshmallow topping?
Use mini marshmallows, placing them sticky-side down on cooled brownies. Broil at 425°F for 30 seconds to 2 minutes, watching to prevent burning. Add and toast the marshmallow layer just before serving.
How do you store and serve s’mores brownies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for a week. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between slices. Reheat in the microwave or oven if desired. Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 6 months.
What are some variations and substitutions for s’mores brownies?
For dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and chocolate. Try different chocolate types like dark or white. Use peanut butter cups for a peanut butter s’mores version. Marshmallow fluff can substitute for mini marshmallows. For no-bake, use a brownie mix, add graham cracker base and marshmallow topping.
