As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of warm chocolate swirling around me instantly transported me back to cherished campfire nights. Those evenings where gooey marshmallows and crisp graham crackers came together to create the beloved S’mores. This time, I decided to elevate that nostalgic treat into something even more indulgent—S’mores Brownies. With rich, fudgy layers sitting atop a buttery cookie crust and finished with a fluffy, toasted meringue, these brownies are undeniably a crowd-pleaser. Not only are they easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for novice bakers, but they also allow you to prepare most of the components in advance. So, whether you’re entertaining friends or treating yourself, get ready to discover a dessert that brings those warm memories to life. Are you ready to dive into this delightful creation?

Why are S’mores Brownies a must-try?

Delightful nostalgia: These S’mores Brownies combine all the beloved elements of a campfire favorite, bringing sweet memories right to your kitchen.

Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, from crushing the cookie base to whipping up the fluffy meringue, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all levels.

Rich, layered texture: Enjoy the perfect harmony of a buttery crust, fudgy brownie center, and airy meringue topping, creating a dessert that pleases every palate.

Make ahead or serve fresh: Prep the crust and brownie base in advance, so you can save time when it’s time to impress guests. For more ways to elevate your dessert game, check out these Tiramisu Brownies Indulge.

Crowd-pleaser: With flavors that appeal to chocolate lovers and those with a sweet tooth, your guests will be raving about these brownies long after the last bite!

S’mores Brownies Ingredients

Ready to create irresistible S’mores Brownies? Gather these delicious ingredients!

For the Cookie Crust
• Digestive or Graham Crackers – Perfect base for the cookie crust; explore flavor variations with different cookies.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; using unsalted gives you better control over the saltiness.

For the Brownie Batter
• Semi-Sweet Dark Chocolate Chips – Essential for that intense chocolate flavor; swap with milk chocolate for a sweeter option.
• Unsweetened Dutch Cocoa Powder – Enhances the chocolate depth; Dutch-processed is the way to go for rich results.
• Granulated Sugar & Dark Brown Sugar – Creates a delightful balance of sweetness and moisture; use coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
• Large Eggs – Key for binding the batter; room temperature eggs ensure better texture.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps brownies wonderfully moist; melted coconut oil can introduce a unique flavor.
• Vanilla Extract – Depth of flavor is crucial; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat.
• Cornstarch – Softens the brownie texture; optional if you prefer a denser brownie.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; don’t skip it—it balances the sweetness.

For the Meringue Topping
• Egg Whites – Crucial for achieving that fluffy meringue texture; ensure no yolk is present.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the meringue perfectly; be sure to incorporate it gradually.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Adds a rich flavor complexity; feel free to substitute with more vanilla extract if needed.

Get ready to bake these delicious S’mores Brownies and bring back those sweet campfire memories!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S’mores Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 160ºC (325ºF). While it warms up, line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This is an essential step for your S’mores Brownies, ensuring a perfect bake and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Crust
Crush your digestive or graham crackers into fine crumbs and combine them with melted unsalted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the cookie crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.

Step 3: Prepare the Brownie Batter
In a medium saucepan, melt together semi-sweet dark chocolate chips and butter over low heat until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in unsweetened Dutch cocoa powder, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and large eggs until well combined. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt until just mixed, avoiding overmixing to keep that fudgy texture.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Brownies
Pour the rich brownie batter over the baked cookie crust, spreading it evenly. Bake the S’mores Brownies for 30 to 35 minutes. Look for the edges to be set while the center remains slightly underbaked; a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Make the Meringue Topping
For the meringue, combine the egg whites and granulated sugar in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and whip with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, then fold in the vanilla bean paste gently to retain the volume.

Step 6: Add Meringue and Toast
Spread the fluffy meringue evenly over the cooled brownies, creating a beautiful peak and valley texture. Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the meringue until golden brown, moving the flame a few inches away to prevent burning. This step adds that classic toasted flavor reminiscent of campfire S’mores.

Step 7: Slice and Serve
Let your S’mores Brownies cool completely before slicing. To achieve clean cuts, dip your knife in hot water before slicing through the layers. This will help you enjoy the rich, layered flavors and textures without any mess, making your dessert look just as delightful as it tastes!

How to Store and Freeze S’mores Brownies

Room Temperature: Store S’mores Brownies in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep their texture fresh and moist.

Fridge: If you want to extend their life, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while ensuring the brownies remain delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze S’mores Brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating: To serve, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore the fudgy goodness, or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge!

What to Serve with S’mores Brownies

Indulging in these decadently rich S’mores Brownies is a delight on its own, but pairing them with a few delightful sides can elevate the experience even further.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture pairs beautifully with warm brownies, balancing the richness while enhancing the chocolate flavor.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing contrast and a pop of tartness that complements the sweetness of the brownies.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, airy whipped cream adds a soft touch to the brownies, making each bite feel even more indulgent and luxurious.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the top elevates the dessert’s presentation and adds an extra layer of sweetness.

Imagine serving these S’mores Brownies with a side of fresh coffee or a rich espresso; it transforms your dessert into a delightful café experience right at home!

Sparkling Water: A glass of fizzy water with a slice of lemon can cleanse the palate and enhance each bite, making them even more enjoyable.
Minty Herbal Tea: For a soothing finish, serve with mint tea to balance the sweet flavors and provide a refreshing end to your meal.

Expert Tips for S’mores Brownies

• Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the brownies as they bake. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so look for set edges with a slightly underbaked center.

• Room Temperature Eggs: For the best emulsion and texture in your batter, always use room temperature eggs. This simple step can make a big difference in the final product.

• No Yolk in Meringue: Ensure that no egg yolk gets mixed in with the egg whites for meringue. Any fat can prevent the whites from whipping up to stiff peaks.

• Toasting Meringue: When using a kitchen torch, hold it a few inches away from the meringue to achieve that perfect golden finish without burning it.

• Clean Cuts: Dip your knife in hot water before slicing the brownies. This makes cutting smoother and keeps the layers intact for stunning presentation.

Make Ahead Options

These S’mores Brownies are perfect for meal prep, saving you time for busy weeknights or special occasions! You can prepare the cookie crust and brownie layer up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The fluffy meringue topping can also be made 24 hours ahead; just whip it up, spread it over the cooled brownies, and toast it right before serving for that warm, campfire-flavor edge. By prepping these components ahead, you’ll create a delightful dessert with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on the company around the table while still serving up a crowd-pleaser!

S’mores Brownies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and personalize your S’mores Brownies with these fun twists that will tantalize your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free treat.
Nuts: Add toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the brownies’ fudgy texture.
Minty Fresh: Swap out vanilla extract for mint extract for a refreshing spin reminiscent of mint chocolate desserts.
Extra Chocolate: Fold in chocolate chunks or use a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate for a richer brownie experience.
Flavor Boost: Enhance your brownies’ flavor by adding a hint of espresso powder to make the chocolate taste even more intense.
Creamy Center: For a luscious twist, incorporate a layer of peanut butter or Nutella into the brownie batter before baking.
Fruity Twist: Mix in dried fruits or fresh berries for a burst of sweetness that complements the chocolatey goodness wonderfully.
For another decadent dessert idea that brings chocolatey nostalgia to the forefront, check out these Tiramisu Brownies Indulge. Experimenting with these variations will make your S’mores Brownies uniquely yours!

S’mores Brownies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right crackers for the crust?
Absolutely! For the cookie crust, I recommend using either digestive biscuits or graham crackers for an authentic flavor. If you’re looking for something different, feel free to explore other cookie options like shortbread for a unique twist. Just ensure they’re firm enough to hold up the brownie layers.

What is the best way to store S’mores Brownies?
For short-term storage, keep your S’mores Brownies in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to preserve them longer, transfer them to the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for freezing, lasting up to 3 months!

Can I freeze S’mores Brownies?
Indeed! To freeze your S’mores Brownies, wrap them well in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They will maintain their delightful taste for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm slightly in the microwave, if desired.

What if my meringue doesn’t come out fluffy?
Very often, this happens when even a tiny bit of yolk gets into the egg whites, preventing them from whipping to stiff peaks. To ensure fluffy meringue, be sure to separate your eggs carefully, using a clean bowl to whip. If you’ve already mixed yolk in, it’s best to start fresh with new egg whites for the best results.

Are there any dietary considerations for S’mores Brownies?
Yes, if you’re accommodating guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily make S’mores Brownies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure that your chocolate chips are dairy-free if needed, and be mindful of any nut allergies when considering ingredients like nut-based cookies or oils.

Can I prepare S’mores Brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cookie crust and brownie layer up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The meringue can also be prepared a day ahead. Just spread the meringue on top of the brownies and toast it just before serving to maintain that fabulous texture.