The classic campfire treat just got an upgrade! These S’mores Brownies combine the buttery crunch of graham cracker crust, rich layers of fudgy homemade brownie, and a blanket of golden-toasted marshmallows for the ultimate bite.
Whether you’re missing the camping season or simply craving something nostalgic and satisfying, this dessert brings the flavor of the outdoors right into your kitchen. It’s the perfect sweet treat to share with friends, bring to summer parties, or enjoy with a tall glass of milk on a quiet night in.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
-
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
-
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
-
2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Brownie Layer:
-
½ cup unsalted butter
-
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
-
¾ cup granulated sugar
-
¼ cup brown sugar
-
2 large eggs
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
-
¼ cup cocoa powder
-
½ tsp salt
For the Marshmallow Topping:
-
2 cups mini marshmallows
-
1 graham cracker, crushed (optional garnish)
-
1 Hershey’s bar, broken into pieces (optional garnish)
Directions:
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
-
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then let cool.
-
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and chopped chocolate until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
-
Whisk in granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until fully combined.
-
Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir just until the batter is smooth and combined.
-
Pour brownie batter over cooled graham crust and smooth the top.
-
Bake for 25–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
-
Immediately top the hot brownies with mini marshmallows and place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely, until marshmallows are golden and toasted.
-
Garnish with crushed graham crackers and Hershey’s pieces if desired.
-
Let cool completely before slicing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 360 kcal | Servings: 9 brownies
The Ultimate Dessert Mash-Up: S’mores Brownies
S’mores brownies are the perfect fusion of two of the most loved desserts on earth: rich, fudgy brownies and classic campfire s’mores. This delightful mash-up is a decadent treat that delivers layers of texture and flavor—from the crunch of the buttery graham cracker base to the dense, chocolatey brownie center, and finally to the gooey toasted marshmallow topping. It’s a nostalgic dessert with a gourmet twist, perfect for satisfying cravings and impressing guests.
This irresistible dessert is especially popular in summer, but its beauty lies in the fact that it brings all the magic of a campfire treat into the comfort of your home oven. No fire pit or skewers required—just a baking dish, some pantry staples, and a sweet tooth.
Why S’mores Brownies Are So Popular
What makes s’mores brownies such a crowd favorite? It’s the comforting, memory-evoking nature of s’mores combined with the indulgence of brownies. For many people, s’mores bring back memories of camping trips, cozy fires, and summer nights. Brownies, on the other hand, are a universally adored dessert, with their moist, chocolatey crumb and satisfying richness.
Together, they make a dessert that’s both familiar and exciting. Kids love the marshmallows, adults adore the fudge factor, and everyone appreciates the satisfying crunch from the graham cracker crust. It’s truly a multi-generational dessert that doesn’t require forks or fuss—just a napkin and a big appetite.
Tips for Perfecting S’mores Brownies
To get the best result, there are a few key tips that elevate your s’mores brownies from good to unforgettable. First, the graham cracker crust must be tightly packed and baked briefly before adding the brownie batter. This ensures it sets properly and doesn’t crumble apart when sliced.
Second, using quality chocolate is crucial for achieving that rich, fudgy center. Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate offers a deeper, more balanced flavor than milk chocolate, which can be overly sweet when paired with marshmallows.
And finally, be cautious when broiling the marshmallows. They toast very quickly—just a minute or two is enough to give you that golden, caramelized finish. Keep your eye on them at all times to avoid burning.
Creative Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, the possibilities for customizing s’mores brownies are endless. You can infuse the brownie layer with a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella for a decadent twist. Want something extra indulgent? Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the brownie and marshmallow topping.
You can also experiment with different types of graham crackers—try cinnamon or chocolate grahams for added flavor complexity. Don’t be afraid to incorporate flavored marshmallows or even marshmallow fluff as a topping alternative.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go fully gourmet by sprinkling crushed toffee bits, caramel drizzle, or sea salt over the top. These little touches enhance both the flavor and the visual appeal of your dessert.
When to Serve S’mores Brownies
These brownies are incredibly versatile when it comes to occasion. They’re a hit at summer BBQs, family picnics, birthday parties, or school bake sales. Because they travel well and hold their shape, they make excellent potluck contributions or picnic desserts.
They also shine as a holiday treat—especially during fall and winter when people are craving cozy, indulgent flavors. Serve them at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even as a casual dessert for a game night or movie marathon.
And of course, they’re perfect for “just because” moments. Whether you’re celebrating a small win, treating your kids after a long school day, or simply giving yourself a little love, s’mores brownies deliver every single time.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
S’mores brownies store surprisingly well, making them a great choice for make-ahead dessert planning. After they’ve cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, though they’re best enjoyed at room temperature for optimal texture.
For longer storage, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven gooeyness.
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out
Unlike many store-bought or shortcut s’mores brownie mixes, this version is made completely from scratch using quality ingredients. That’s what makes the difference in taste and texture. Every layer is thoughtfully crafted—from the crisp graham cracker crust to the dense, chewy brownie, to the lightly charred marshmallow top.
It’s also a very forgiving recipe that doesn’t require any special equipment or baking expertise. Even beginner bakers can achieve beautiful, delicious results with minimal effort. Plus, it’s easily scalable—double the recipe for a crowd, or make it in mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats.
Kid-Friendly and Party-Approved
If you have kids or are planning a party, these brownies are a huge win. Not only do they deliver all the sugary, gooey fun that children love, but they’re also just messy enough to feel exciting without being unmanageable. Kids can even help assemble the layers or sprinkle the marshmallows on top, making it a fun kitchen activity for all ages.
For parties, you can dress them up on a dessert table by cutting them into neat squares and garnishing each one with a mini chocolate square or a mini marshmallow skewer. They add a playful, rustic charm to any dessert spread and pair well with other handheld treats.
Pairing Ideas for the Ultimate Dessert Experience
To complete your s’mores brownie moment, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can even serve them slightly warmed with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for an elegant presentation.
For drinks, a glass of cold milk is the classic choice, but these brownies also go wonderfully with a rich cup of coffee or a sweet dessert wine. For an adult twist, try pairing them with a toasted marshmallow-flavored cocktail or a stout beer with chocolate notes.
A Dessert That Connects Generations
There’s something timeless about the flavors of s’mores—crunchy graham crackers, melty chocolate, and puffy, golden marshmallows. They evoke feelings of togetherness, joy, and simplicity. When combined with the sophistication of a well-made brownie, the result is a dessert that bridges the gap between playful nostalgia and grown-up indulgence.
These brownies are a beautiful reminder that the best desserts don’t need to be complicated. Sometimes, layering familiar ingredients in a new way creates something entirely magical.
Conclusion: Why You Should Make These Today
S’mores brownies are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. From the moment you press the graham crust into the pan to the final golden broil of the marshmallows, making them is as enjoyable as eating them. They’re the perfect blend of textures, temperatures, and tastes, delivering the best parts of both brownies and s’mores in one bite.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these brownies are guaranteed to hit the sweet spot. Make them once, and they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe for whenever you need a little comfort, celebration, or indulgence. You don’t need a campfire to enjoy the magic of s’mores—just an oven, a pan, and a craving for something amazing.