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This ultimate treat combines the nostalgia of campfire s'mores with rich, fudgy brownies into one irresistible dessert. The combination of graham cracker crunch, chocolate brownie base, and toasted marshmallow topping creates the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
The first time I made these brownies for my niece's birthday party, they disappeared faster than any other dessert. Now they've become our signature treat for summer gatherings, bringing all the joy of campfire s'mores without leaving the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Salted butter: Provides richness and enhances all the flavors look for high quality European style butter for best results
- Granulated sugar: Creates the perfect sweetness balance
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and provide structure
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor use pure extract not imitation
- Milk chocolate chips: Melted into the batter create an authentic smores flavor
- All purpose flour: Gives structure while keeping brownies tender
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor use Dutch processed for deeper color and taste
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances chocolate notes
- Graham crackers: Form both the base and topping providing that essential smores element
- Mini marshmallows: Create the classic gooey toasted topping smaller ones melt more evenly than large
- Hershey chocolate bars: Broken on top provide authentic smores experience and visual appeal
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Line your metal pan with parchment paper and create a graham cracker base using half the crackers. This creates a proper smores foundation and makes removal from the pan much easier. The metal pan is crucial for proper heat conduction during baking and broiling.
- Mix the Brownie Batter:
- Melt the butter completely until liquified but not hot. Whisk with sugar for the full 30 seconds to properly integrate the sugar crystals. Add eggs and vanilla, whisking vigorously for the full minute creates air pockets for optimal texture. Incorporate the melted chocolate chips with gentle folding to maintain airiness. Finally add the dry ingredients with minimal mixing to avoid tough brownies.
- Bake the Base:
- Pour your batter carefully over the graham cracker base, spreading evenly to corners. The 30 to 35 minute baking time allows the brownies to set properly while remaining fudgy in the center. Look for edges that pull slightly from the pan and a center that no longer jiggles.
- Create the Topping:
- While brownies bake, prepare your toppings by breaking remaining graham crackers and chocolate bars into rustic pieces varying in size for visual interest and texture contrast. This advance preparation means you can work quickly when the brownies are hot.
- Add the Smores Element:
- Working swiftly, add your toppings to the hot brownies. The residual heat helps the marshmallows begin softening even before broiling. Distribute toppings evenly, with chocolate pieces interspersed between graham and marshmallow.
- Broil to Perfection:
- Position your oven rack correctly and watch constantly during broiling. The ideal toasting happens quickly. Look for marshmallows puffing up and turning golden brown with some darker spots for authentic campfire appeal.
The mini marshmallows are truly the star ingredient here. I discovered through much testing that mini marshmallows create a more evenly distributed topping than large ones cut up. Something magical happens when they toast under the broiler, creating that distinctive campfire flavor that makes everyone smile with the first bite.
Storage Tips
These s'mores brownies maintain their best quality when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Avoid refrigeration as this can make the marshmallow topping tough and the graham crackers soggy. For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies without the marshmallow topping, then add and broil fresh marshmallows after thawing for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these brownies slightly warm for the ultimate gooey experience. Simply microwave individual portions for 10 seconds if serving from room temperature. They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream for an over the top dessert experience. For summer gatherings, complement with fresh berries on the side to cut through the richness.
Make It Your Own
This recipe welcomes creative variations. Try using cinnamon graham crackers for a warm spice note, or swap milk chocolate pieces for dark chocolate if you prefer less sweetness. Peanut butter chips sprinkled on top before the marshmallows add a wonderful flavor dimension for peanut butter cup lovers. You can also add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter to intensify the chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent brownies from over-baking?
Monitor the oven closely and check them at the lower end of the baking time. Use a toothpick to test; insert into the center, ensuring some moist crumbs cling to it for fudgy brownies.
- → Can I substitute milk chocolate chips with another type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a less sweet, richer taste.
- → How do I achieve perfectly browned marshmallows?
Place the pan under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close watch to avoid burning; marshmallows brown quickly.
- → Can I make these in a different pan size?
Yes, you can use a larger pan, but keep an eye on the baking time as thinner brownies will cook faster.
- → How do I store S'mores brownies?
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → What’s the best way to cut gooey brownies cleanly?
Let the brownies cool completely, and use a sharp knife sprayed with cooking oil or dipped in hot water for clean cuts.