S’mores Brownies: A Dessert that Combines Two Iconic Treats

Few desserts have the ability to evoke warm memories and comfort quite like s’mores and brownies. Both are iconic in their own right—s’mores, a nostalgic campfire treat that transports us back to cozy evenings outdoors, and brownies, a universally loved dessert with a rich, chocolatey allure. Now imagine combining the best of both worlds: the gooey, marshmallow-laden sweetness of s’mores with the soft, fudgy decadence of brownies. Enter the glorious creation known as S’mores Brownies.

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This recipe takes the simplicity of a boxed brownie mix and elevates it to gourmet status by incorporating graham crackers, marshmallows, and classic Hershey’s chocolate. It’s easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers big on flavor and texture. S’mores Brownies are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings and potlucks to indulgent weekend treats.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide for making these delightful brownies and learn a few tips, tricks, and variations along the way.

What Makes S’mores Brownies So Special?

The magic of S’mores Brownies lies in the combination of contrasting yet complementary textures and flavors. The brownie base provides a dense, chocolatey foundation, while the graham crackers add a delightful crunch. The marshmallows, when baked, become gooey and caramelized, creating a chewy layer that ties the dessert together. Finally, the Hershey’s chocolate melts into the marshmallows, adding creamy richness to every bite.

These brownies are not only delicious but also versatile and beginner-friendly. Even if you’ve never baked before, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof, making it an excellent choice for home cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients: The Essentials

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients needed to make these brownies:

Brownie Base:

• 18.3 oz box family-size brownie mix: A convenient way to ensure consistent results every time. The “cakey” brownie option provides the perfect texture for this recipe.
• 2 large eggs: Used as a binder, the eggs give structure to the brownies while contributing to the cakey texture.
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness, ensuring the brownies stay soft and flavorful.
• ⅓ cup water: Combines with the mix to create a smooth batter.

S’mores Toppings:

• 6 graham crackers: Broken into bite-sized pieces, these add crunch and a classic s’mores flavor.
• 2 cups miniature marshmallows: These puff up and turn golden in the oven, creating the gooey signature of s’mores.
• 12 snack-size Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars: Broken into squares, these melt beautifully over the marshmallows. If unavailable, substitute with 2-3 full-size Hershey’s bars or 2 cups of chocolate chips.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect S’mores Brownies:

1. Prepare the Brownie Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, eggs, oil, and water as per the instructions on the box for “cakey” brownies. Use a whisk or silicone spatula to mix until smooth and lump-free. Once the batter is ready, pour it into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.

2. Bake the Brownie Base
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. The brownies should be slightly underbaked at this stage. To check, insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs or slightly wet batter. This ensures the final product remains soft and fudgy.

3. Add the S’mores Toppings
Remove the brownies from the oven and immediately sprinkle the graham cracker pieces evenly over the surface. Next, scatter the miniature marshmallows generously across the top. Finally, add the Hershey’s chocolate squares, ensuring they are distributed evenly.

4. Final Bake
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes. During this time, the marshmallows will puff up and turn golden, while the chocolate will begin to melt. Keep a close eye to prevent overbaking, as marshmallows can burn quickly.

5. Cool and Slice
Once out of the oven, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. For easier slicing, spray a sharp knife with cooking spray before cutting. Cut the brownies into 5×4 rows to yield 20 servings. If you prefer clean, neat slices, let the brownies cool completely before cutting.

Pro Tips for Success

• Check Your Marshmallows: Ensure they are evenly spread and not overcrowded to allow even puffing during baking.
• Control the Sweetness: If you find the recipe too sweet, use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a balanced flavor.
• Neat Slicing: Spraying your knife with cooking spray prevents sticking, especially if slicing while the brownies are warm.

Variations to Try

S’mores Brownies are a versatile dessert that lends itself well to customization. Here are some ideas to make this recipe your own:

1. Peanut Butter Lovers: Swirl a few spoonfuls of peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking for a nutty twist. You can also top the marshmallows with Reese’s Pieces for added flavor.

2. Salted Caramel Delight: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the marshmallows before adding the chocolate squares for a sweet-and-salty combination.

3. Holiday-Themed Brownies: Use holiday-shaped marshmallows or sprinkle festive-colored candies over the top for a seasonal touch.

4. Berry Bliss: Add a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries to the brownie batter for a fruity twist.

5. Cookie Crumble: Replace graham crackers with crushed cookies such as Oreos or chocolate chip cookies for an extra indulgent treat.

Serving Suggestions

S’mores Brownies are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Here’s how you can serve them:

• Classic Style: Serve the brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
• Individual Servings: Wrap each brownie in parchment paper for easy grab-and-go treats at parties or picnics.
• Elegant Presentation: Dust the brownies with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a sophisticated look.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

S’mores Brownies are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. Each bite takes you on a journey of flavors and textures, from the dense, chocolatey base to the gooey marshmallows and crunchy graham crackers. The recipe is simple enough for novice bakers yet impressive enough to wow your guests.

Moreover, these brownies bring a sense of nostalgia, evoking memories of campfires and childhood treats. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a potluck, or a quiet night at home, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Storing Your S’mores Brownies

If you have leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store them in the pan covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil. They will stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature. Note that the graham crackers may soften over time, but the flavors will remain just as delicious.

For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Final Thoughts

S’mores Brownies combine the best elements of two iconic desserts, creating a treat that’s rich, gooey, and utterly satisfying. The recipe is simple, flexible, and guaranteed to bring joy to anyone who tries it. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with variations, these brownies are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

So the next time you’re craving something sweet, skip the campfire and bake a batch of S’mores Brownies. They’re everything you love about s’mores, but easier, mess-free, and even more delicious!