By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on March 3, 2024 | Last Updated on March 3, 2024
Picture this: a cozy campfire on a cool summer night, the crackling of flames filling the air with warmth and comfort. The stars twinkle overhead, casting a soft glow on the group of friends gathered around, eagerly waiting to indulge in a sweet, gooey treat.
Enter s’mores brownies with graham cracker crust – the perfect marriage of classic campfire flavors and rich, decadent brownies.
In this blog post, I will take you on a delightful journey through the creation of this mouthwatering dessert, from the crumbly graham cracker crust to the melty chocolate and gooey marshmallow topping. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of s’mores brownies with graham cracker crust!
What is S’mores Brownies with Graham Cracker Crust?
S’mores brownies with graham cracker crust are a delectable twist on the traditional campfire treat. This dessert combines a buttery graham cracker crust, fudgy brownie layer, and a topping of gooey marshmallows and melted chocolate.
The flavors and textures complement each other perfectly, creating a rich and indulgent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more.
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Why This Recipe Works?
This recipe works because it combines the beloved flavors of s’mores with the comforting richness of brownies.
The graham cracker crust adds a crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness, while the brownie layer is dense, fudgy, and chocolatey – everything you want in a brownie.
The marshmallow topping brings that classic s’mores element, adding a gooey, melty goodness that ties the whole dessert together.
Together, these components create a dessert that is a true crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re gathered around a campfire or hosting a cozy evening at home.
Ingredients
Brownie:
- Salt: I use salt to balance the sweetness of the brownies and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Vanilla: Adding vanilla extract enhances the richness of the chocolate and adds a delightful aroma to the brownies.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent, giving structure to the brownies and ensuring a moist and chewy texture.
- Chocolate, unsweetened: Unsweetened chocolate provides a deep, intense chocolate flavor to the brownies, making them rich and indulgent.
- Butter, unsalted: Butter adds moisture and richness to the brownies, contributing to their fudgy texture and buttery taste.
- All-purpose flour: Flour provides structure to the brownies, giving them a chewy and dense texture.
- Sugar: Sugar not only sweetens the brownies but also contributes to their tender texture and moistness.
- Cocoa powder: Cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate flavor in the brownies and adds a rich, dark color.
Crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs: I use graham cracker crumbs to create a crunchy and flavorful crust that adds a hint of sweetness and complements the chocolatey brownie layer.
- Butter, melted: Melted butter binds the graham cracker crumbs together, creating a cohesive crust that holds its shape when baked.
- Sugar: A touch of sugar adds sweetness to the crust, balancing the flavors of the brownie and topping.
Topping:
- Hershey candy bars: Hershey candy bars provide a classic s’mores flavor with their creamy milk chocolate, adding sweetness and richness to the dessert.
- Mini marshmallows: Mini marshmallows give the brownies their signature s’mores look and provide a gooey, melty texture reminiscent of roasted marshmallows over a campfire.
How to Make S’mores Brownies with Graham Cracker Crust?
Before we delve into the step-by-step instructions, let me give you a brief introduction to the process of making s’mores brownies with graham cracker crust.
This recipe is a delightful combination of baking and assembling layers, resulting in a dessert that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. So, without further ado, let’s get started on creating this mouthwatering treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Getting Things Ready
Alright, first things first, let’s get set up. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab a square pan, about 8 inches by 8 inches, and line it with some non-stick foil. If you don’t have that, just give some regular foil a spray with Pam cooking spray, that should do the trick. Set it aside for now.
Step 2: Making the Crumbly Base
We’re starting strong with that graham cracker crust. In a bowl, mix together 1 and a half cups of those crushed graham crackers with 6 tablespoons of melted butter and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir it all up until it’s nicely combined. Then, press this crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 7 minutes. Once it’s done, let it cool off a bit while we get the brownie batter ready.
Step 3: Melting Chocolate Goodness
Now, let’s dive into making the brownie layer. Crank up the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a microwave-safe bowl, toss in 4 ounces of unsweetened chocolate and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Microwave this mixture in short bursts, stirring often until it’s all melted and smooth.
Step 4: Sweetening the Deal
Once that chocolate and butter are all melted together, it’s time to add some sweetness. Stir in 1 and a quarter cups of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Mix it all up until it’s nicely combined.
Step 5: Egg-citing Addition
Now, crack open 2 eggs, one at a time, into the chocolatey mixture. Give it a good stir after each egg to make sure everything gets nicely incorporated.
Step 6: Flour Power
Alright, time to thicken things up a bit. Stir in half a cup of all-purpose flour and coco powder into the mix. Keep stirring until it’s super smooth and starts pulling away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 7: Spreading the Love
Now that our brownie batter is looking mighty fine, spread it evenly over that cooled graham cracker crust in the pan. Make sure it’s nice and level.
Step 8: Into the Oven
Pop the pan back into the oven and let those brownies bake for around 18 minutes or until they start pulling away from the sides of the pan and the middle looks set.
Step 9: Marshmallow Magic
Once the brownies are all baked and cooled, sprinkle on top 2 cups of mini marshmallows until they cover the surface like a fluffy blanket.
Step 10: Broil ‘Em Up
Now here’s where the real magic happens. Pop that pan under the broiler, about 6 inches from the heating element. Keep a close eye on it and let those marshmallows toast up for about 2 minutes until they’re golden brown and gooey.
Step 11: Chocolate Shards Galore
While the marshmallows are still warm, sprinkle on top some shattered pieces of those candy bars. Let them melt ever so slightly into that marshmallow goodness.
Step 12: Slice and Serve
Alright, last step, but definitely not least. Let the whole thing cool off completely, then grab a hot knife and slice it into squares. Serve up those s’mores brownies and get ready for some serious taste bud fireworks!
Tips:
- When pressing the graham cracker crust into the baking dish, use the back of a measuring cup or glass to ensure a compact and even layer.
- Be careful not to overbake the brownies, as they can become dry. The toothpick test is a good indicator of doneness – you want a few moist crumbs to adhere to the toothpick.
- For a variation, sprinkle chopped nuts or additional chocolate chips over the marshmallow topping before broiling for added texture and flavor.
- To make slicing easier, run a sharp knife under hot water before cutting the brownies. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for clean edges.
- To intensify the s’mores flavor, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the finished brownies just before serving.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rarity with these irresistible treats), store the s’mores brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate the brownies for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for a few seconds to warm them up and enjoy that gooey goodness once again.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size: 1 brownie (based on 16 servings)
Calories: 231 kcal
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 21g
Protein: 3g
How Would I Recommend Serving S’mores Brownies with Graham Cracker Crust?
- Warm and Gooey: Serve the s’mores brownies fresh out of the oven, when the marshmallows are perfectly toasted and the chocolate is melty and irresistible.
- A La Mode: Top each serving of s’mores brownie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that combines warm and cold textures.
- Camping Vibes: Take your s’mores brownies outside and enjoy them around a campfire for the ultimate nostalgic experience.
- On-the-Go Treat: Pack individual portions of s’mores brownies in plastic containers for a portable snack or dessert during road trips or outdoor activities.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
- Graham Cracker Alternative: If graham crackers are not available, you can substitute digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or crushed oat cookies for the crust.
- Chocolate Substitute: In place of unsweetened chocolate, you can use cocoa powder mixed with butter to achieve a similar richness and flavor in the brownie batter.
- Marshmallow Alternative: If mini marshmallows are not on hand, you can use large marshmallows cut into smaller pieces or marshmallow fluff spread over the brownie layer before baking.
- Hershey Candy Bar Replacement: For the topping, any chocolate bar of your choice can be used instead of Hershey bars, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or caramel-filled chocolate bars.
S’mores Brownies With Graham Cracker Crust Recipe
Equipment
- square pan
- mixing bowl
- Baking pan
Ingredients
Brownie:
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 2 large eggs
- 4 ounces chocolate unsweetened
- 1/2 cup butter unsalted
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/4 cups brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp sugar
Topping:
- 2 Hershey candy bars shattered
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
Step 1: Getting Things Ready
- Alright, first things first, let’s get set up. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grab a square pan, about 8 inches by 8 inches, and line it with some non-stick foil. If you don’t have that, just give some regular foil a spray with Pam cooking spray, that should do the trick. Set it aside for now.
Step 2: Making The Crumbly Base
- We’re starting strong with that graham cracker crust. In a bowl, mix together 1 and a half cups of those crushed graham crackers with 6 tablespoons of melted butter and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir it all up until it’s nicely combined. Then, press this crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 7 minutes. Once it’s done, let it cool off a bit while we get the brownie batter ready.
Step 3: Melting Chocolate Goodness
- Now, let’s dive into making the brownie layer. Crank up the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a microwave-safe bowl, toss in 4 ounces of unsweetened chocolate and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Microwave this mixture in short bursts, stirring often until it’s all melted and smooth.
Step 4: Sweetening The Deal
- Once that chocolate and butter are all melted together, it’s time to add some sweetness. Stir in 1 and a quarter cups of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Mix it all up until it’s nicely combined.
Step 5: Egg-Citing Addition
- Now, crack open 2 eggs, one at a time, into the chocolatey mixture. Give it a good stir after each egg to make sure everything gets nicely incorporated.
Step 6: Flour Power
- Alright, time to thicken things up a bit. Stir in half a cup of all-purpose flour and coco powder into the mix. Keep stirring until it’s super smooth and starts pulling away from the sides of the bowl.
Step 7: Spreading The Love
- Now that our brownie batter is looking mighty fine, spread it evenly over that cooled graham cracker crust in the pan. Make sure it’s nice and level.
- Step 8: Into The Oven
- Pop the pan back into the oven and let those brownies bake for around 18 minutes or until they start pulling away from the sides of the pan and the middle looks set.
Step 9: Marshmallow Magic
- Once the brownies are all baked and cooled, sprinkle on top 2 cups of mini marshmallows until they cover the surface like a fluffy blanket.
Step 10: Broil ‘Em Up
- Now here’s where the real magic happens. Pop that pan under the broiler, about 6 inches from the heating element. Keep a close eye on it and let those marshmallows toast up for about 2 minutes until they’re golden brown and gooey.
Step 11: Chocolate Shards Galore
- While the marshmallows are still warm, sprinkle on top some shattered pieces of those candy bars. Let them melt ever so slightly into that marshmallow goodness.
Step 12: Slice And Serve
- Alright, last step, but definitely not least. Let the whole thing cool off completely, then grab a hot knife and slice it into squares. Serve up those s’mores brownies and get ready for some serious taste bud fireworks!
Notes
- When pressing the graham cracker crust into the baking dish, use the back of a measuring cup or glass to ensure a compact and even layer.
- Be careful not to overbake the brownies, as they can become dry. The toothpick test is a good indicator of doneness – you want a few moist crumbs to adhere to the toothpick.
- For a variation, sprinkle chopped nuts or additional chocolate chips over the marshmallow topping before broiling for added texture and flavor.
- To make slicing easier, run a sharp knife under hot water before cutting the brownies. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for clean edges.
- To intensify the s’mores flavor, drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the finished brownies just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use store-bought graham cracker crust instead of making it from scratch?
While homemade graham cracker crust adds a personal touch to the s’mores brownies, you can certainly use a store-bought crust if you’re short on time or prefer the convenience.
2. Is it necessary to use unsweetened chocolate for the brownie batter?
Unsweetened chocolate provides a rich cocoa flavor without adding extra sugar to the brownies. If you prefer a sweeter chocolate base, you can use semisweet or dark chocolate instead.
3. Can I make these brownies in advance for a party or special occasion?
Yes, you can prepare the s’mores brownies in advance and store them in an airtight container. Rewarm them in the oven before serving to ensure the marshmallows are gooey and the chocolate is melted.
4. Are there any gluten-free alternatives for the graham cracker crust?
To make this dessert gluten-free, you can use gluten-free graham crackers or ground almond meal as a substitute for the graham cracker crust.
5. Can I freeze the s’mores brownies for longer storage?
Yes, you can freeze the brownies after baking and cooling them completely. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
6. Can I add other mix-ins to the brownie batter for extra flavor?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate chopped nuts, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or even a swirl of peanut butter into the brownie batter for a personalized touch and added texture.
Conclusion
As we conclude our delightful journey into the world of s’mores brownies with graham cracker crust, my hope is that you are inspired to recreate this indulgent dessert in your own kitchen.
The combination of buttery graham crackers, fudgy brownies, gooey marshmallows, and melty chocolate creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you and your loved ones coming back for more.
Whether you’re reminiscing about campfire nights or simply craving a decadent treat, these s’mores brownies are sure to hit the spot. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps with care, and sink your teeth into a slice of bliss with every bite. Happy baking and indulging!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
