S’mores Brownies

Introduction

Are you ready to elevate your brownie game to new heights? Imagine the rich, fudgy texture of a classic brownie combined with the gooey goodness of s’mores. If you’ve ever craved that perfect blend of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker, then these S’mores Brownies are your answer! This dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings back memories of campfires and summer nights. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a simple yet indulgent recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients List

To make your S’mores Brownies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Brownies:

• Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), melted
• Granulated sugar: 2 cups
• Brown sugar: 1 cup, packed
• Large eggs: 4
• Vanilla extract: 2 tsp
• All-purpose flour: 1 cup
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1 cup
• Salt: ½ tsp
• Baking powder: 1 tsp
• Chocolate chips: 1 cup (semi-sweet or dark)

For the S’mores Topping:

• Graham cracker crumbs: 1 cup
• Mini marshmallows: 2 cups
• Chocolate bars: 2 (for topping, broken into squares)

Substitution Suggestions

• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Sugar alternatives: You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to reduce sweetness.

Timing

Making S’mores Brownies takes about 20 minutes of preparation and 25-30 minutes of baking time. In total, you’re looking at approximately 50-60 minutes, which is a quick dessert option for any occasion. This is significantly less time compared to many layered desserts, making it a great choice for last-minute gatherings!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter

1. Melt the butter: In a large mixing bowl, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
2. Mix sugars: Add 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of packed brown sugar to the melted butter. Stir until well combined.
3. Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate 4 large eggs and 2 tsp of vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of baking powder.
5. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in chocolate chips: Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey flavor.

Step 3: Bake the Brownies

1. Pour the batter: Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
2. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 4: Add S’mores Topping

1. Remove from oven: Once the brownies are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes.
2. Add graham cracker crumbs: Sprinkle 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs evenly over the top of the brownies.
3. Layer marshmallows: Distribute 2 cups of mini marshmallows over the graham cracker layer.
4. Top with chocolate: Break 2 chocolate bars into squares and place them on top of the marshmallows.
5. Broil: Return the pan to the oven and broil on low for 1-2 minutes, watching closely until the marshmallows are golden and toasted.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Cool completely: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
2. Serve: Enjoy your delicious S’mores Brownies warm or at room temperature. They pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (assuming 16 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	70mg
Sodium	150mg
Total Carbohydrates	40g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	28g
Protein	4g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make your S’mores Brownies a bit healthier, consider these alternatives:

• Nut butter: Replace some of the butter with almond or peanut butter for added protein and healthy fats.
• Dark chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor and additional antioxidants.
• Reduce sugar: Cut down the sugar by ¼ cup without compromising the taste.

Serving Suggestions

To make your S’mores Brownies even more appealing, consider these serving ideas:

• A la mode: Serve warm brownies topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers on top for an extra crunch.
• Presentation: Serve in individual dessert cups for a fun and personal touch at parties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making your S’mores Brownies:

• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the brownies while baking. Overbaking can lead to dry brownies; aim for a fudgy texture.
• Not cooling: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean edges and easier serving.
• Broiling too long: When broiling the marshmallows, watch closely to prevent burning. They can toast quickly!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your S’mores Brownies fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

The S’mores Brownies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the nostalgic taste of s’mores. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dessert that will impress your family and friends. So why wait? Try this recipe today and share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the brownies a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes! Feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate for a unique twist.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. They should not be completely dry.

Can I add nuts to the brownies?

Definitely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be added to the brownie batter for extra texture and flavor.