S’more Brownies: A Gooey, Chocolatey Delight You Need in Your Life
S’mores, the quintessential campfire treat, have a magical way of evoking childhood memories and cozy evenings. But what if you could enjoy that same delightful combination of chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallow without the campfire? Enter: S’more Brownies! These decadent treats combine the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the iconic flavors of s’mores, creating a dessert that’s irresistible and surprisingly easy to make.
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth on a rainy day. Prepare to be amazed by the symphony of textures and flavors that dance in your mouth with every bite. The chewy brownie base, the crunchy graham cracker crust, and the gooey, toasted marshmallow topping – it’s a trifecta of deliciousness!
## Why You’ll Love These S’more Brownies
* **Classic Flavors, Elevated:** This recipe takes the beloved s’more combination and elevates it into a sophisticated and satisfying dessert.
* **Easy to Make:** Despite their impressive appearance, these brownies are surprisingly simple to whip up, even for novice bakers.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to get creative with your toppings and variations to make them your own.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** From casual gatherings to special celebrations, these brownies are always a hit.
* **Guaranteed to Impress:** Your friends and family will be blown away by the incredible taste and texture of these homemade s’more brownies.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth and efficient baking process. Here’s what you’ll need:
**For the Brownie Base:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed light brown sugar
* 4 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
**For the Graham Cracker Crust:**
* 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 whole graham crackers)
* 5 tablespoons (2.5 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
**For the Marshmallow Topping:**
* 4 cups mini marshmallows
**Optional Toppings:**
* Chocolate drizzle
* Extra graham cracker crumbs
* Sea salt flakes
## Equipment You’ll Need
* 9×13 inch baking pan
* Parchment paper
* Mixing bowls
* Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Rubber spatula
* Small saucepan (for melting butter, if needed)
## Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Your S’more Brownies
Now, let’s dive into the detailed instructions for creating these delectable s’more brownies. Follow these steps carefully to ensure the best results:
**Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan**
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for even baking.
* Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray. This prevents the brownies from sticking.
* Line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easy to lift the brownies out of the pan after baking. The overhang acts like handles.
**Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust**
* In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
* Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened. They should resemble wet sand.
* Press the graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to ensure a compact and even layer.
* Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. This helps to set the crust and prevent it from becoming soggy.
* Remove the pan from the oven and let the crust cool slightly while you prepare the brownie batter.
**Step 3: Prepare the Brownie Batter**
* In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or in a saucepan over low heat.
* Once the butter is melted, whisk in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined and smooth.
* Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter brownie.
* Stir in the vanilla extract.
* In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
* Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough brownies. A few streaks of flour are okay at this point.
* Fold in the chocolate chips. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
**Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Brownies**
* Pour the brownie batter evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust.
* Spread the batter to ensure it reaches all corners of the pan.
* Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake, as this will result in dry brownies.
* Remove the pan from the oven and let the brownies cool for about 10 minutes. This allows them to set slightly before adding the marshmallow topping.
**Step 5: Add the Marshmallow Topping**
* Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top of the warm brownies. Make sure to cover the entire surface.
* Place the brownies back in the oven under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and toasted to your liking. Watch them closely, as they can burn quickly.
* Alternatively, you can use a kitchen torch to toast the marshmallows. This gives you more control over the browning process.
**Step 6: Cool and Cut**
* Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan before cutting.
* Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan.
* Cut the brownies into squares and serve. For cleaner cuts, you can use a warm knife.
## Tips for Perfect S’more Brownies
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing the brownie batter can result in tough brownies. Mix until just combined, and don’t worry about a few streaks of flour.
* **Use High-Quality Chocolate:** The quality of your chocolate chips will significantly impact the flavor of the brownies. Use high-quality semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for the best results.
* **Toast the Marshmallows Carefully:** Marshmallows can burn quickly under the broiler. Watch them closely and remove the brownies from the oven as soon as they are golden brown.
* **Let the Brownies Cool Completely:** Cooling the brownies completely before cutting will prevent them from being too gooey and difficult to handle.
* **Use a Warm Knife for Clean Cuts:** To get clean, professional-looking cuts, dip your knife in warm water and wipe it dry before each slice.
## Variations and Substitutions
* **Add Nuts:** Mix chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the brownie batter for added texture and flavor.
* **Use Different Chocolate:** Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate, white chocolate, or peanut butter chips.
* **Add Espresso Powder:** A teaspoon of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor of the brownies.
* **Substitute Gluten-Free Flour:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.
* **Make Individual Brownies:** Bake the batter in muffin tins for individual s’more brownies.
* **Salted Caramel S’more Brownies:** Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the marshmallow topping for an extra layer of indulgence.
* **Peanut Butter S’more Brownies:** Swirl peanut butter into the brownie batter or drizzle peanut butter over the marshmallow topping.
* **Different Graham Cracker Flavors:** Try using honey graham crackers, chocolate graham crackers, or cinnamon graham crackers for a unique twist on the crust.
* **Marshmallow Fluff Topping:** Instead of mini marshmallows, spread a layer of marshmallow fluff over the brownies during the last few minutes of baking.
## Serving Suggestions
* **Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream:** The contrast of warm brownies and cold ice cream is heavenly.
* **Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel sauce:** Add an extra layer of indulgence with a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
* **Serve with a glass of cold milk:** The perfect complement to a rich and chocolatey brownie.
* **Garnish with fresh berries:** Add a touch of freshness and color with a few fresh berries.
* **Pack them for picnics or lunchboxes:** S’more brownies are a portable and delicious treat.
## Storage Instructions
* **Store at room temperature:** Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
* **Store in the refrigerator:** For longer storage, store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
* **Freeze the brownies:** Freeze the brownies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
## Nutrition Information (Approximate)
* Calories: 350-400 per serving
* Fat: 20-25g
* Saturated Fat: 12-15g
* Cholesterol: 75-85mg
* Sodium: 150-200mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-45g
* Sugar: 30-35g
* Protein: 4-5g
*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.*
## Conclusion: Indulge in S’more Brownie Bliss
S’more Brownies are a delightful twist on a classic campfire treat, offering a decadent and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich chocolate flavor, gooey marshmallow topping, and crunchy graham cracker crust, these brownies are sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in s’more brownie bliss!
Enjoy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!