S’mores Brownies
S’mores Brownies are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat, combining rich brownies with gooey marshmallows, crispy graham crackers, and chunks of chocolate. This scrumptious dessert is perfect for any occasion—from summer barbecues to cozy winter gatherings. With their easy preparation and irresistible flavor, S’mores Brownies will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Made with a box brownie mix, these brownies can be prepared in just a few simple steps.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and graham crackers creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, picnics, or a sweet ending to any meal.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the little ones in the kitchen and let them help with layering the ingredients.
- Year-Round Delight: Enjoy the flavors of s’mores regardless of the season with this baked version.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Rubber spatula
- Plastic bag for crushing graham crackers
- Oven mitts
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Pan: A sturdy 9×13 inch pan ensures even cooking and easy removal of brownies.
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl helps combine all brownie ingredients without spilling.
- Rubber Spatula: Perfect for mixing batter thoroughly and scraping every last bit from the bowl.
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 2 boxes of brownie mix – I used Ghirardelli Brownie Mix
For Toppings
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 package of graham crackers
- 2 1.55 ounce chocolate bars broken into pieces
How to Make S’mores Brownies
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Batter
Make brownies according to directions on box. This usually involves mixing water, eggs, and oil with the brownie mix until smooth.
Step 2: Crush the Graham Crackers
While brownies are baking, put graham crackers in a plastic bag and crush them into small pieces. This will add a nice crunch to your dessert.
Step 3: Broil the Marshmallows
Take brownies out of oven once baked and turn broiler to high.
Step 4: Assemble Toppings
Sprinkle marshmallows on top of brownies evenly. Then, top marshmallows with crushed graham crackers.
Step 5: Toast the Toppings
Place pan in oven for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully until marshmallows turn golden brown.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Pieces
Once browned, remove from oven and cool on a wire rack. Gently push chocolate pieces into the melted marshmallows.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Allow to cool for 30 minutes then cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious S’mores Brownies!
How to Serve S’mores Brownies
S’mores Brownies are a delightful treat perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
Individual Dessert Cups
- Use small cups to serve S’mores Brownies in individual portions. Layer brownie pieces with whipped cream and mini marshmallows for a cute presentation.
Ice Cream Sundae Style
- Top each brownie square with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle with chocolate sauce, and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers for an indulgent twist.
Campfire Style Platter
- Arrange S’mores Brownies on a platter alongside skewers of fruit, like strawberries and bananas. This adds a refreshing contrast and makes it fun for guests to create their own combinations.
Mini S’mores Brownie Bites
- Cut the brownies into small squares and place them on mini dessert plates. Offer tiny forks or toothpicks for easy snacking during parties.
Themed Party Favors
- Wrap individual S’mores Brownies in clear bags tied with twine as party favors. It’s a sweet way to thank guests for attending your event.
Pairing with Hot Drinks
- Serve S’mores Brownies alongside hot chocolate or coffee. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully, making it a perfect treat for chilly evenings.
How to Perfect S’mores Brownies
To achieve the ultimate S’mores Brownies, follow these simple tips that will elevate your baking experience.
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality brownie mix and chocolate bars. This enhances the flavor of your brownies significantly.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the brownies while baking. Overbaking can lead to dry texture; aim for fudgy perfection by checking a few minutes before the suggested time.
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Toast Marshmallows Carefully: When broiling the marshmallows, watch closely to avoid burning. You want them golden brown and gooey, not charred.
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Layer Wisely: For added crunch, layer more graham cracker crumbs on top of the marshmallows before broiling. This will enhance that signature S’mores texture.
Best Side Dishes for S’mores Brownies
S’mores Brownies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Consider these delicious options:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries, melons, and citrus fruits balances the sweetness of the brownies and adds freshness to your plate.
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Chocolate Fondue: Serve alongside melted chocolate for dipping fruits or extra brownie pieces, creating an interactive dessert experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream made from heavy cream adds a lightness that contrasts beautifully with the dense brownies.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the brownies introduces another layer of flavor that enhances their richness.
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Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a DIY sundae bar with different toppings like sprinkles, nuts, and syrups for guests to customize their desserts.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of S’mores Brownies, offering balance on your dessert table.
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Nutty Granola: Serve crunchy granola on the side as a lighter option that still satisfies those cravings without being overly sweet.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee or espresso pairs excellently with these brownies, enhancing their chocolatey goodness while providing a comforting warmth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making S’mores Brownies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using the wrong brownie mix: Always choose a high-quality brownie mix to ensure rich flavor and texture. Ghirardelli is a great option.
- Overbaking brownies: Keep an eye on your brownies while baking. Overbaking can lead to dry treats. Follow the box instructions closely.
- Not crushing graham crackers finely: If the pieces are too large, they won’t adhere well to the marshmallows. Aim for a fine crumb for better results.
- Skipping the broiler step: Toasting the marshmallows under the broiler adds that signature gooeyness. Don’t skip this crucial step!
- Not cooling before cutting: Allow your brownies to cool adequately before slicing. This helps them hold their shape and makes serving easier.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store S’mores Brownies in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing S’mores Brownies
- Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
- S’mores Brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating S’mores Brownies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat brownies on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.
- Stovetop: Use a pan on low heat, covering with a lid. Warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about S’mores Brownies.
Can I use homemade brownie batter?
Yes, you can use homemade brownie batter instead of a box mix. Just ensure it bakes properly before adding toppings.
What variations can I try with S’mores Brownies?
You can experiment with different types of chocolate or add nuts for extra crunch. Peanut butter chips also make a great addition!
How do I know when my S’mores Brownies are done?
Check if the edges pull away from the pan and use a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean.
Are S’mores Brownies gluten-free?
If using gluten-free brownie mix and gluten-free graham crackers, then yes! You can enjoy these delicious treats without gluten.
Final Thoughts
S’mores Brownies combine the classic flavors of s’mores with fudgy brownies, making them irresistible at any time of year. With easy customization options, you can tailor this recipe to suit your taste—be it adding nuts or trying different chocolates. Don’t miss out on this cozy treat; give it a try!
S’mores Brownies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 24 servings 1x
Description
S’mores Brownies are a delectable fusion of two beloved desserts, bringing the classic campfire experience right to your kitchen. These fudgy brownies are layered with gooey marshmallows, crunchy graham crackers, and rich chocolate, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion—from summer cookouts to cozy winter nights. With minimal prep time and a simple recipe, these brownies will quickly become a family favorite. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet indulgence at home, S’mores Brownies capture the essence of childhood nostalgia while delivering an explosion of flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 boxes Ghirardelli brownie mix
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 package graham crackers
- 2 chocolate bars (1.55 ounces each)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare brownie batter according to box instructions.
- While baking, crush graham crackers in a plastic bag into small pieces.
- Once brownies are done baking, broil until golden brown after adding marshmallows on top.
- Sprinkle crushed graham crackers over toasted marshmallows.
- Add chocolate pieces into the melted marshmallows and allow cooling before cutting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie square (45g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
