Smores Brownies bring together everything you love about the classic campfire treat and combine it with the rich indulgence of homemade brownies.
This unique dessert is an irresistible fusion of gooey melted marshmallows, crisp graham crackers, and decadent chocolate brownie, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, celebrations, or special weeknight treats.
The name 'S’mores' is derived from 'some more', a nod to the treat's addictive quality that leaves everyone wanting more after just one bite. Traditionally, s’mores were crafted over an open fire, but with Smores Brownies, you can enjoy all those nostalgic flavors right from your kitchen, all year round.
The origin of s’mores dates back to the early 20th century, gaining popularity through American camping culture, especially with Girl Scouts who first published a recipe in a 1927 guide.
By layering a chewy brownie base with the signature elements of s’mores—crunchy graham cracker crumbs and toasted marshmallows—you achieve the perfect balance of textures and flavors. With the surge in popularity of creative desserts, Smores Brownies have become a modern classic for dessert lovers.
Whether you are hosting a family get-together, celebrating a birthday, or just craving that nostalgic campfire experience, this easy and satisfying dessert delivers an explosion of flavor that makes every occasion memorable.
Get ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to the best of both worlds: the iconic s’more and the timeless fudge brownie combined in one show-stopping recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 8 whole graham crackers, roughly broken
- ½ cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Whisk until smooth and slightly glossy.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to maintain a fudgy texture.
- Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Layer half of the broken graham crackers evenly over the batter, pressing them slightly in.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of mini marshmallows over the graham crackers.
- Pour the remaining brownie batter on top and gently spread it to cover the marshmallows and crackers.
- Top with the remaining broken graham crackers, the rest of the mini marshmallows, and the milk chocolate chips.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the brownies are set but slightly gooey in the center. Marshmallows should be golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
- Lift brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice, serve, and enjoy the gooey, chocolatey delight!
Nutritional Information
Smores Brownies are a decadent dessert, and enjoying them in moderation is key to a balanced diet. Each square (assuming 20 servings from a 9x13-inch pan) contains approximately 240 calories, with 11 grams of fat, 34 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein.
The rich chocolate and marshmallow layers contain sugars and fats typical of indulgent sweets, while the graham crackers contribute a small amount of fiber.
While these brownies are certainly a treat best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence, their homemade nature allows you to control serving sizes and, if desired, adjust ingredients such as using lower-sugar chocolate or including whole wheat flour for additional nutrition.
Compared to store-bought desserts, homemade Smores Brownies typically feature fewer preservatives and fresher ingredients. For those with dietary restrictions, you can further tailor the recipe to include gluten-free graham crackers, vegan butter alternatives, or marshmallows made without gelatin. Keeping portions moderate ensures you satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.
Paired with fresh fruit or a small scoop of low-sugar ice cream, these brownies offer a heavenly flavor experience balanced by mindful, wholesome choices.
As with any dessert, the best nutritional benefit comes from savoring each bite and sharing with others, making Smores Brownies both a delicious and memorable addition to your dessert repertoire.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
The chocolate richness and toasted marshmallow notes of Smores Brownies pair wonderfully with classic beverages and more adventurous choices alike. Serve these brownies with a tall glass of cold milk for a nostalgic treat, or pair them with freshly brewed coffee to balance the sweetness with a touch of bitterness.
For a more grown-up vibe, complement these brownies with a full-bodied red wine, like a Zinfandel or Merlot, which enhances the chocolate’s depth. Port wine, with its rich and fruity undertones, creates an elegant finish to your dessert course.
If you enjoy beer, try a chocolate stout or a porter for a harmonious blend of roasted flavors. For non-alcoholic pairings, hot cocoa or a dark roast cold brew can intensify the indulgent, campfire-inspired experience.
Children and adults alike enjoy these brownies with vanilla milkshakes, creamy lattes, or even an old-fashioned root beer float to create an unforgettable dessert moment.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Achieving perfect Smores Brownies requires a few insider tricks. First, don't overmix your brownie batter; this keeps the texture fudgy rather than cakey. Use good-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for deep chocolate flavor. Cutting the graham crackers into various sizes offers texture and full coverage through each bite.
If you love extra gooeyness, add a few more marshmallows on top towards the last 5 minutes of baking—just watch to ensure they brown but don’t burn.
If you crave a crisp top, broil the pan for 1–2 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye out to avoid scorching the delicate marshmallows. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour and certified gluten-free graham crackers.
To create a s’mores brownie bar for parties, cut into smaller squares and drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel after cooling. Experiment by adding a layer of peanut butter, Nutella, or a sprinkle of sea salt for exciting flavor variations.
For easier slicing, chill the brownies in the fridge before cutting and use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut.
Remember, Smores Brownies can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature, or even longer in the fridge, maintaining their gooey perfection for days to come.
Serving Suggestions
Presenting Smores Brownies in an appealing manner transforms them into a centerpiece for any event. For a casual gathering, slice the brownies into squares and serve directly from the pan, allowing guests to help themselves.
For a special occasion or party, arrange the brownies on a rustic wooden board or a platter lined with parchment paper, stacked attractively in staggered layers.
Pair the brownies with a bowl of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or tucked beside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a restaurant-style dessert. Add a flourish by drizzling with extra melted chocolate or caramel sauce and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
For outdoor events, such as barbecues or picnics, wrap individual servings in parchment paper and twine for easy grabbing and minimal cleanup. Set up a dessert bar with small toppings like extra marshmallows, chocolate shavings, and mini graham cracker pieces for a build-your-own Smores Brownie experience.
For children’s parties, serve brownie squares on popsicle sticks or skewers for a fun, hands-free treat. If you’re planning to make Smores Brownies ahead of time, store them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed in the microwave to reinvigorate the gooey marshmallow layer. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack, party treat, or elegant dinner finale, Smores Brownies deliver the comforting nostalgia of campfire s’mores in every bite.
Health Benefits
Although Smores Brownies are a rich and indulgent treat, they can offer some surprising health benefits when enjoyed mindfully and in moderation. Chocolate, particularly dark or semi-sweet varieties, contains antioxidants known as flavonoids, which can support heart health and improve blood flow.
The marshmallows provide quick-release energy from simple carbohydrates, useful after physical activity or as a quick pick-me-up. Graham crackers are often made with wheat flour, providing some dietary fiber, and homemade versions allow you to control the quality and source of the ingredients.
Choosing organic or minimally processed components helps avoid unnecessary additives or preservatives found in commercially prepared desserts. Modifications can enhance the health profile of Smores Brownies; for example, swapping in whole-wheat flour and using dark chocolate can increase fiber and antioxidant content.
Marshmallows made without corn syrup or artificial dyes are readily available for an even cleaner treat. Remember, the emotional and social connections fostered by sharing homemade desserts like Smores Brownies can contribute positively to your mental well-being and happiness.
As with any dessert, the key is portion control and savoring each bite as part of a balanced diet filled with variety and nutrient-dense foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Smores Brownies can be made up to 2–3 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. For fresher taste, allow brownies to come to room temperature before serving or rewarm in the microwave for a few seconds to revive the gooey marshmallow layer.
Keep an eye on the brownies during the last ten minutes of baking. Keep the marshmallows golden-brown by loosely covering with foil if they darken too quickly. If you'd like a deeper toast, use the broiler for 1–2 minutes at the end, but watch closely as marshmallows can go from perfectly browned to burnt quickly.
Absolutely! Prepare your favorite boxed brownie mix as instructed and layer with graham crackers and marshmallows as described in this recipe. The key is in the assembly of s’mores layers, so a boxed mix works perfectly for a convenient shortcut.
The standard recipe uses all-purpose flour and graham crackers, which contain gluten. To make gluten-free Smores Brownies, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and certified gluten-free graham crackers while ensuring the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Yes, you can make Smores Brownies vegan by using plant-based butter, egg substitutes (like flax eggs), and vegan marshmallows. Opt for vegan chocolate chips and check that your graham crackers are free from honey or dairy products.
Smores Brownies are the perfect marriage of two beloved desserts—classic gooey s’mores and rich, fudgy brownies. With every bite, you experience the satisfying crunch of graham crackers, the creamy depth of chocolate, and the gooey sweetness of toasted marshmallows. This recipe captures the essence of campfire nostalgia and brings it directly into your home, no matter the season. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering, from backyard barbecues to birthday parties and everything in between. With the added benefit of being able to tailor ingredients for dietary needs, Smores Brownies are a versatile favorite that fit nearly any occasion. Enjoy these delightful treats with your favorite beverage, share them with friends and family, and relish the comforting, chocolatey joy they bring every time. Begin your journey into homemade Smores Brownies, and discover a new tradition that everyone will look forward to for years to come.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 8 whole graham crackers, roughly broken
- ½ cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions
-
1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang for easy removal.
-
2In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Whisk until smooth and slightly glossy.
-
3Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
-
4In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
-
5Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to maintain a fudgy texture.
-
6Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
-
7Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
-
8Layer half of the broken graham crackers evenly over the batter, pressing them slightly in.
-
9Sprinkle 1 cup of mini marshmallows over the graham crackers.
-
10Pour the remaining brownie batter on top and gently spread it to cover the marshmallows and crackers.
-
11Top with the remaining broken graham crackers, the rest of the mini marshmallows, and the milk chocolate chips.
-
12Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the brownies are set but slightly gooey in the center. Marshmallows should be golden brown.
-
13Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
-
14Lift brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice, serve, and enjoy the gooey, chocolatey delight!
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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