As I savored the warmth of a campfire one balmy evening, I couldn’t help but reminisce about those blissful S’mores, bringing back memories of gooey marshmallows and melted chocolate. Now, imagine capturing that nostalgic treat in fudgy form! These S’mores Brownies are truly a delightful twist on the classic dessert, crafted with rich brownie layers on a crispy cookie base, all crowned with a fluffy, toasted meringue. Beyond their heavenly taste, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them the perfect crowd-pleaser for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Are you ready to indulge in a dessert that merges adventure and comfort? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why will you adore S’mores Brownies?

Decadent Layers: Each bite combines a crispy cookie base, a decadent brownie layer, and a fluffy meringue topping—nothing short of a dessert lover’s dream!

Easy to Make: Stress-free preparation allows you to enjoy these fudgy delights without being a baking pro; perfect for beginners and seasoned chefs alike.

Flavorful Nostalgia: Capturing campfire magic, these brownies evoke warm memories of summer nights, making them an instant favorite at any gathering.

Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed smiles for family and friends; whether it’s a birthday party or a simple evening at home, these brownies will wow everyone!

Don’t forget to pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence!

S’mores Brownies Ingredients

For the Cookie Crust
• Digestive or Graham Crackers – The base structure for the cookie crust; feel free to use any similar cookie for flavor variations.
• Butter – Adds moisture and richness; unsalted butter gives you more control over the saltiness.

For the Brownie Batter
• Semi-Sweet Dark Chocolate Chips – Provides an intense chocolate flavor; you can substitute with milk chocolate for a sweeter treat.
• Unsweetened Dutch Cocoa Powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor depth; make sure it’s Dutch-processed for the best results.
• Granulated Sugar & Dark Brown Sugar – These sweeteners offer a perfect balance of sweetness and moisture; you can use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
• Large Eggs – Essential for binding and creating the desired texture; room temperature eggs yield a smoother batter.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the brownie moist; melted coconut oil works well if you want a different flavor profile.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic depth; opt for pure vanilla extract for the most flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the brownies; swap for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
• Cornstarch – Softens the brownie texture; can be omitted if you’re in a pinch.
• Salt – Enhances flavor, so don’t skip it! It beautifully balances the sweetness.

For the Meringue Topping
• Egg Whites – Key for achieving fluffy peaks in the meringue; ensure no yolk gets mixed in for the best consistency.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Elevates the flavor complexity of the meringue; you can replace it with additional vanilla extract if needed.

These S’mores Brownies will captivate your palate and your heart, transforming a simple dessert into a delightful adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S’mores Brownies

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 160ºC (325ºF). While it warms, line a 20×20 cm (8×8 inch) square pan with parchment paper, ensuring the edges overhang for easy removal later. This prep step sets you up for sweet success with your S’mores Brownies!

Step 2: Make Cookie Crust
Crush the digestive or graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or a rolling pin. Combine the crumbs with melted unsalted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating a solid crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare Brownie Batter
In a medium saucepan, melt the semi-sweet dark chocolate chips and butter together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in cocoa powder, both sugars, and the eggs until thoroughly combined. Add vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Slowly fold in flour, cornstarch, and salt just until no dry ingredients remain visible—do not overmix for perfectly fudgy brownies!

Step 4: Bake Brownies
Pour the luscious brownie batter over the baked cookie crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in your oven for 30-35 minutes, checking for doneness; the edges should look set while the center appears slightly underbaked for that gooey, fudgy texture. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 5: Make Meringue
While the brownies cool, prepare the meringue. In a heatproof bowl, combine egg whites and granulated sugar, then place it over a pot of simmering water (double boiler). Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and whip the mixture with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the vanilla bean paste for a wonderful depth of flavor.

Step 6: Assemble and Finish
Once the brownies have cooled to room temperature, carefully spread the fluffy meringue over the top. Use a kitchen torch to toast the meringue until golden brown, creating an inviting contrast with the fudgy brownie beneath. For the cleanest cuts, slice with a hot, clean knife, revealing the beautiful layers of your S’mores Brownies.

Expert Tips for S’mores Brownies

• Watch the Bake Time: Be cautious not to overbake the brownies; check for doneness with a toothpick and aim for a few moist crumbs to ensure a fudgy texture.

• Correct Egg Temperature: Use room temperature eggs for your brownie batter; this helps create a better emulsion, ensuring a smooth and rich consistency.

• Meringue Perfection: Ensure that no egg yolk contaminates your egg whites, as this can prevent the meringue from achieving those fluffy, stiff peaks you desire.

• Toast with Care: When using a kitchen blowtorch, hold it a few inches away from the meringue to avoid burning. Golden perfection equals the perfect balance!

• Neat Slicing: To achieve clean and beautiful slices of your S’mores Brownies, dip your knife in hot water before cutting. This helps prevent the meringue from sticking.

By following these helpful tips, your S’mores Brownies will become a showstopper at any gathering!

S’mores Brownies: Endless Customization

Feel free to let your imagination run wild as you personalize these delightful brownies with exciting twists and swaps!

White Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate for a creamy and sweet layer that beautifully contrasts with the meringue.
Nutty Delight: Add crushed walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for an extra crunchy texture and decision-making flavor.
Fl flavored Meringue: Incorporate almond or hazelnut extract into the meringue for a fragrant twist that elevates the flavor profile.
Boozy Variation: Drizzle in some flavored liqueur, like orange or raspberry, into the brownie batter for a grown-up dessert treat. A splash of caramel whiskey can add a lovely depth!
Fruity Brownies: Fold in fresh or dried fruits, such as cherries or raspberries, into the brownie batter. They’ll add a juicy pop of flavor in every bite.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the brownie mix for a surprising hint of warmth that contrasts nicely with the meringue.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free while keeping the fudgy goodness intact.
Camping Treat: Ditch the meringue topping and toast some marshmallows over a campfire for a rustic take on this classic dessert.

Remember, experimenting can lead to delightful discoveries, so don’t hesitate to make these S’mores Brownies your own! Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle some warm chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat. Happy baking!

What to Serve with S’mores Brownies

Imagine the delighted reactions as you elevate your S’mores Brownies to the centerpiece of a full meal—let’s explore some delightful pairings that will enchant your guests!

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast to the warm brownies, enhancing every fudgy bite.
Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing tartness that cuts through the sweetness, brightening the dessert.
Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream adds a luscious texture that complements the rich brownies, making each mouthful decadently smooth.
Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or espresso brings out the chocolate flavors, making for an indulgent and cozy experience. Enjoy sipping alongside your brownies!
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A decadent drizzle of chocolate sauce amplifies the indulgence, creating an irresistible sweetness that all chocolate lovers will adore.
Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch, accentuating the overall texture while bringing in a nutty flavor that perfectly harmonizes with the brownies.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce creates an enchanting salty-sweet profile that elevates the S’mores experience to new heights.
Mint Tea: A refreshing cup of mint tea cleanses the palate and adds a hint of coolness, complementing the rich chocolate beautifully.
S’mores Milkshake: For the ultimate treat, blend a milkshake with chocolate ice cream, milk, and graham cracker crumbs for a whimsical nod to the original S’mores!

Make Ahead Options

These S’mores Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks seeking efficient meal prep solutions! You can prepare the brownie base and the cookie crust up to 3 days in advance; simply cool them completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. However, for the best texture, it’s ideal to add the meringue just before serving; prepare the meringue up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply spread the meringue on top and use a kitchen torch to toast it, bringing you the same delectable taste and texture as if made fresh! Enjoy the satisfaction of planning ahead while still impressing family and friends with your delicious S’mores Brownies!

Storage Tips for S’mores Brownies

Room Temperature: Keep S’mores Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their fudginess and fresh taste.

Fridge: Store the brownies in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to wrap them tightly if they’re uncut to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and consider adding fresh meringue before enjoying.

Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds to restore their warm, gooey goodness.

S’mores Brownies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for S’mores Brownies?
Absolutely! For the best cookies, look for digestive or graham crackers that are fresh and free of dark spots or any sign of staleness. In terms of chocolate, choose semi-sweet dark chocolate chips with a good cocoa percentage for maximum flavor depth—aim for around 60% cocoa. Butter should be unsalted for better control of the recipe’s overall salinity, and ensure your eggs are at room temperature for optimal blending.

What’s the best way to store S’mores Brownies?
I recommend storing your S’mores Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, moving them to the fridge can extend their freshness to about 3 days. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent any moisture loss, which could affect their fudginess!

Can I freeze S’mores Brownies for later?
Yes, indeed! To freeze S’mores Brownies, allow them to cool completely first. Then, individually wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw overnight in the fridge; for an extra touch, consider re-torching the meringue just before serving.

What should I do if my brownie batter is too dry?
If you find your brownie batter is too dry, don’t worry! This can happen if you’re measuring flour too densely. Simply fold in a tablespoon of melted butter or a small amount of vegetable oil, which can help restore moisture. Also, ensure you’re not overmixing, as this can lead to a tougher texture. Only mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated.

Are S’mores Brownies safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! While this recipe contains common allergens like eggs, dairy, and wheat, you can easily make them gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free options, consider using coconut oil in place of butter and choosing dairy-free chocolate chips. Just be aware that meringue requires egg whites, so if you’re catering to vegans, alternatives like aquafaba could be explored, although results may vary.

How long do S’mores Brownies last?
S’mores Brownies can last at room temperature for about 2 days, and if you store them properly in the fridge, they can last up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Just wrap them well and they can stay good for up to 3 months.

Enjoy your delicious S’mores Brownies!