Easy & Irresistible Fudgy S’mores Brownies: Your Campfire-Free Dessert Dream

Are you craving the ultimate gooey, chocolatey, and marshmallow-topped delight but without the hassle of a campfire? Look no further! These Easy and Fudgy S’mores Brownies are the perfect answer to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring the magic of s’mores right into your kitchen, any time of year. Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich, decadent brownie featuring a delightful crunchy graham cracker crust, a deeply fudgy dark chocolate center, and a spectacularly gooey, perfectly toasted marshmallow topping. This dessert is designed to transport you straight to s’mores heaven, no flickering flames required!

As a professional baker who has experimented with countless dessert recipes, I can confidently say that these S’mores brownies have earned a top spot on my favorites list. When I was perfecting this recipe, I found myself “quality testing” (read: taking way too many extra bites!) more often than I’d care to admit. The combination of textures and flavors in every bite is pure perfection: the crisp, buttery graham cracker crust, the rich, melt-in-your-mouth fudgy brownie, and the delightfully caramelized, gooey toasted marshmallows on top create an experience that’s simply irresistible.

My journey as a professional baker has involved crafting a multitude of brownie recipes, each with its own unique charm. But these s’mores brownies truly stand out. The harmonious blend of textures, from the satisfying crunch of the graham cracker base to the luscious chewiness of the brownie and the ethereal gooeyness of the toasted marshmallow, achieves a level of recipe perfection that’s hard to beat.

Brownies are, without a doubt, one of the easiest and most gratifying desserts to make. This realization recently sparked a “brownie rampage” in my kitchen, leading to a fantastic array of new creations. If you love brownies as much as I do, you might also enjoy these other delightful variations: my famously gooey marshmallow brownies, featuring irresistible mini marshmallows baked right into their soft, chewy centers; and these incredibly festive, sprinkle-filled birthday brownies that are perfect for any celebration! For those seeking a more sophisticated twist, my black forest brownies are another excellent choice, especially delightful during the summer months.

One kitchen tool I wholeheartedly recommend for any s’mores enthusiast or baking aficionado is a kitchen torch. It’s an absolute game-changer, making the process of toasting marshmallows incredibly simple, safe, and satisfying. Forget the fear of open flames; these mini torches are compact, user-friendly, and provide that perfect golden-brown char that elevates any marshmallow-topped dessert. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without one!

For those who may be less familiar with the classic s’mores, let me introduce you to this iconic American treat. S’mores have been a beloved camping staple for decades, with their origins tracing back to the early 1900s. The name itself is a contraction of “some more,” a testament to their irresistible nature! Traditionally, they consist of graham crackers, chocolate bars (often Hershey’s), and marshmallows, all sandwiched together and melted over a campfire until the chocolate is gooey and the marshmallow is perfectly toasted and caramelized. These brownies capture all those nostalgic flavors and textures in a convenient, indoor-friendly format.

Marshmallows are incredibly versatile and add a wonderful dimension to many desserts. Beyond these brownies, they are fantastic in treats like this decadent Mississippi Mud cake. When incorporating them into recipes, I always recommend using mini marshmallows – they tend to melt more evenly and are much easier to work with, ensuring a consistent gooey texture throughout your dessert.

WHY YOU SHOULD MAKE THESE S’MORES BROWNIES

If you’re still contemplating whether to embark on this delicious baking adventure, here are several compelling reasons why these S’mores Brownies deserve a spot in your recipe collection:

• S’mores, No Campfire Required: Enjoy all the beloved flavors and textures of traditional s’mores without needing an open flame or a camping trip. This recipe allows you to indulge in this classic treat conveniently in your own kitchen, perfect for any season or occasion.
• Unbeatable Texture Contrast: The addition of a robust graham cracker crust provides a fantastic, satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the soft, fudgy brownie center and the airy, gooey marshmallow topping. It’s a textural symphony in every single bite!
• Crowd-Pleasing Perfection: Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, planning a cozy family night, or just need a comforting treat, these s’mores brownies are guaranteed to be a massive hit. Their nostalgic appeal and irresistible flavor profile make them universally loved by friends and family alike.
• Simple & Straightforward: Despite their impressive layers and gourmet appeal, these brownies are surprisingly easy to make. The step-by-step instructions are clear and simple, making this recipe accessible even for novice bakers.
• Versatile & Customizable: While perfect as is, this recipe also offers room for personalization. Add a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the chocolate, experiment with different types of chocolate chips, or even swirl in some peanut butter for a unique twist.

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS FOR FUDGY S’MORES BROWNIES

Creating the perfect s’mores brownie relies on a harmonious blend of classic ingredients. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial for success:

• Unsalted Butter – Essential for both the graham cracker crust and the brownie batter. In the crust, it acts as a binder, creating a firm and flavorful base. In the brownies, it adds crucial moisture, richness, and contributes significantly to that irresistible fudgy texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dessert.
• Graham Cracker Crumbs – These are the foundation of your s’mores experience, providing that iconic crunchy, slightly honeyed base. If pre-made crumbs aren’t available, simply crush about 9 full-size graham crackers in a food processor until fine, or place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
• High-Quality Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – The heart of your fudgy brownie. Opt for a good quality brand of semi-sweet chocolate chips (or a chopped chocolate bar) to ensure a deep, rich, and truly decadent chocolate flavor that melts beautifully into the batter. This is where a lot of your brownie’s fudginess comes from.
• Granulated White Sugar – Provides the essential sweetness to both the graham cracker crust and the brownie batter. In the brownie, it also contributes to the moist, dense texture.
• Large Eggs – Crucial for binding all the ingredients together in the brownie batter. Eggs also play a vital role in creating the dense, chewy, and gloriously fudgy texture that defines a perfect brownie.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – A flavor enhancer that beautifully complements the chocolate, adding depth and warmth to the brownies. Always use a good quality vanilla for the best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the necessary structure to the brownies without making them cakey. All-purpose flour yields the ideal density and chewiness for this recipe. Be careful not to overmix, which can lead to tough brownies.
• Kosher Salt – A small but mighty ingredient! A pinch of kosher salt (or fine sea salt) is essential to balance the sweetness of the chocolate and marshmallows, enhancing all the flavors and preventing the brownies from tasting overly sweet.
• Unsweetened Natural Cocoa Powder – Intensifies the chocolate flavor of the brownies, giving them a richer, deeper chocolate profile and that beautiful dark hue. Natural cocoa powder provides a slightly fruitier, more intense chocolate taste.
• Mini Marshmallows – These are the star of the s’mores topping! When toasted, they create that signature gooey, caramelized layer. Mini marshmallows are highly recommended as they melt and toast more evenly than larger ones. If you only have large marshmallows, simply cut them into quarters before placing them on the brownies.

HOW TO MAKE PERFECT S’MORES BROWNIES (STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE)

Creating these delightful s’mores brownies is a straightforward process, broken down into easy-to-follow steps. Pay close attention to the details for the best results!

Step 1: Prepare for Baking & Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan by lining it completely with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides to easily lift the brownies out later. Alternatively, you can thoroughly grease the pan with nonstick baking spray. Set the prepared pan aside. Note: Only the graham cracker crust bakes at 375°F; the oven temperature will be lowered for the brownies.

Step 2: Assemble and Bake the Graham Cracker Crust: In a small, microwave-safe bowl, melt the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, add the 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs and 1 tablespoon of sugar to the bowl. Mix thoroughly with a fork or spatula until the mixture is fully combined and resembles damp sand. When you press it together, it should hold its shape. Transfer this mixture to your prepared 8×8 inch pan. Using the bottom of a 1/3 cup measuring cup or your fingers, firmly press the graham cracker mixture evenly across the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan. This creates a compact, sturdy crust. Bake the crust in the preheated 375°F oven for 8 minutes, just until lightly golden and fragrant. After 8 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and immediately lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate for the Brownie Batter: While the crust is baking, prepare your chocolate. In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the 1/2 cup (113.5g) of butter and 6 ounces (170.1g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize.

Step 4: Craft the Fudgy Brownie Batter: To the melted chocolate and butter mixture, add the 3 large eggs and 1 cup (200g) of white sugar. Using a whisk or the whisk attachment of an electric mixer, beat the mixture on high speed for about two minutes. This step is crucial for creating that shiny, crackly brownie top! Next, stir in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until just combined. Switch to a spatula and gently fold in the dry ingredients: 1/2 cup (62.5g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (21.5g) unsweetened natural cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix until *just* combined; overmixing the flour can lead to tough brownies.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies: Carefully pour the freshly made brownie batter evenly over the baked graham cracker crust in your prepared pan. Spread it gently to the edges with a spatula. Place the pan into the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 35-38 minutes. To check for doneness, the edges should be set, but the center should still be slightly soft and look a little moist. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Step 6: Toast the Marshmallows: Remove the brownies from the oven. Evenly distribute the 2 cups (150g) of mini marshmallows across the top surface of the warm brownies. Now, for the fun part: use a kitchen torch to carefully toast the marshmallows until they are golden brown and slightly caramelized on top. This creates that signature s’mores char and gooey texture. (Please refer to the “Tips for Recipe Success” section below for alternative toasting methods if you don’t have a kitchen torch).

Step 7: Garnish and Serve: While the toasted marshmallows are still warm and sticky, immediately sprinkle additional graham cracker crumbs and small pieces of chocolate (like a chopped Hershey’s bar) over the top for extra texture and flavor. Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing and serving. This is important for them to set properly, ensuring clean cuts and the perfect fudgy consistency. Then, slice into squares and enjoy!

EXPERT TIPS FOR S’MORES BROWNIE SUCCESS

Achieving the perfect s’mores brownie is easy when you follow these helpful tips from a pro:

• Even Crust, Every Time: When pressing your graham cracker crust into the pan, don’t just use your fingers. A 1/3 cup measuring cup, or even the bottom of a flat glass, is an excellent tool to ensure the crumbs are evenly distributed and firmly packed. This creates a uniform, sturdy base that won’t crumble when sliced.
• Avoid Overbaking for Fudgy Results: The key to truly fudgy brownies is to *not* overbake them. They should look slightly underdone and glossy in the center when you pull them from the oven. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, not wet batter, and not completely clean (which indicates overbaking). Remember, brownies continue to cook slightly from residual heat after being removed from the oven.
• Kitchen Torch – Your Best Friend: For perfectly toasted marshmallows, a kitchen torch is highly recommended. It offers precise control and safety, allowing you to achieve that beautiful golden-brown char without risk.
• Oven Method for Toasted Marshmallows (No Torch? No Problem!): If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can still achieve beautifully toasted marshmallows in the oven. After baking the brownies and adding the marshmallows, return the pan to the oven. Bake them for just 2-3 minutes at 400°F (200°C) on the top rack. Keep a very close eye on them, as marshmallows can brown quickly!
• Broiler Method (Use Extreme Caution!): For a quicker, more intense toast, you can use the broiler, but this method requires extreme vigilance and is only recommended if you *did not* line your pan with parchment paper, as parchment can catch fire under the broiler. Place the brownies on the lowest rack of your oven and broil for only 15-30 seconds. Do NOT walk away! Marshmallows can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a flash, and even catch fire. This is why a kitchen torch is generally safer and less stressful.
• Marshmallow Size Matters: While mini marshmallows are ideal for even distribution and melting, if you only have large marshmallows, simply cut them into quarters with kitchen shears. This will help them melt and toast more uniformly across the brownie surface. I have not tested this recipe with marshmallow fluff, as its consistency and behavior when toasted are different.
• Cooling is Key: It’s tempting to dive into warm brownies, but for clean slices and the best texture, let your s’mores brownies cool completely before cutting. This allows them to set properly, ensuring that rich, fudgy consistency and preventing the gooey marshmallow from making a mess.

STORAGE AND FREEZING INSTRUCTIONS

Planning to make these delicious s’mores brownies ahead of time or want to savor them for longer? Here’s how to properly store and freeze them:

Storing: Once the marshmallow layer has completely cooled and set (this is crucial to prevent sticking), store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain wonderfully fresh and fudgy for up to 5 days. For optimal freshness, you can also store them in the refrigerator, but allow them to come to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving for the best texture.

Freezing: To extend the life of your s’mores brownies, they freeze beautifully! After the brownies have completely cooled, wrap individual brownies or the entire slab tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or for a quicker treat, you can gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds until soft and gooey.

★
★
★
★
★

5 stars (2 ratings)

Easy and Fudgy S’mores Brownies

Prep:

15 minutes
mins

Cook:

38 minutes
mins

Total:

53 minutes
mins

Servings:

16
brownies

Are you ready for a delicious s’mores treat that doesn’t require any heating up over an open flame? These Easy and Fudgy S’mores Brownies are the answer to your camping cravings! With a crunchy graham cracker crust, fudgy dark chocolate center, and gooey marshmallow top, these s’mores brownies are sure to satisfy anyone who loves s’mores!

Print
Pin
Review

Save
Saved!

Cook Mode

Prevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

Graham Cracker Crust:

• ▢
  
  3 tbsp
  (3 tbsp)
  unsalted butter, melted

• ▢
  
  1 cup
  (84 g)
  graham cracker crumbs

• ▢
  
  1 tbsp
  (1 tbsp)
  sugar

Brownies:

• ▢
  
  1/2 cup
  (113.5 g)
  butter

• ▢
  
  6 oz
  (170.1 g)
  semi sweet chocolate chips , about 1 heaping cup

• ▢
  
  3
  (3)
  large eggs

• ▢
  
  1 cup
  (200 g)
  white sugar

• ▢
  
  1 tsp
  (1 tsp)
  vanilla extract

• ▢
  
  1/2 cup
  (62.5 g)
  flour

• ▢
  
  1/4 cup
  (21.5 g)
  cocoa powder

• ▢
  
  1/2 tsp
  (0.5 tsp)
  salt

• ▢
  
  2 cups
  (150 g)
  mini marshmallows, or 10 oz bag

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper or spray with nonstick baking spray.
• 
  In a small bowl, melt the 3 tbsp unsalted butter. Add the 1 cup graham cracker crumbs and 1 tbsp sugar. Mix until the mixture resembles wet sand and sticks together when pressed.
• 
  Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan. Use the bottom of a ⅓ cup measuring cup to ensure an even and compact layer across the bottom and slightly up the sides of the pan.
• Bake the graham cracker crust for 8 minutes at 375°F (190°C). After 8 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the 1/2 cup butter and 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
• 
  Add the 3 large eggs and 1 cup sugar to the chocolate mixture. Whisk vigorously (or use a whisk attachment on high speed) for 2 minutes until light and foamy. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
• 
  Using a spatula, gently fold in the 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
• 
  Pour the brownie batter evenly over the baked graham cracker crust in the lined baking pan. Bake for 35-38 minutes in the 350°F (175°C) oven.
• 
  Remove the brownies from the oven. Evenly top them with 2 cups of mini marshmallows. Use a kitchen torch to toast the marshmallows until golden brown and gooey.
• If you do not have a kitchen torch, you have two alternatives:
  
  Oven Method: Place the brownies (with marshmallows) back into the oven at 400°F (200°C) on the top rack for 2-3 minutes, watching constantly until marshmallows are golden.
  
  Broiler Method (USE EXTREME CAUTION): If you did NOT use parchment paper, place brownies on the lowest rack under the broiler for 15-30 seconds. Watch them continuously, as marshmallows can ignite very quickly. This method is high risk.
• 
  While marshmallows are still warm and sticky, sprinkle with additional graham cracker crumbs and small pieces of chocolate (e.g., Hershey’s bar pieces). Let the brownies cool completely before slicing and enjoying!

Notes

I strongly recommend investing in a kitchen torch for this recipe and any other desserts requiring direct heat. You can find a link to the one I use within the post.

Kitchen torches are incredibly easy to use and significantly safer than attempting to broil marshmallows in your oven, which carries a much higher risk of burning or catching fire.

Please be EXTREMELY careful if you opt to broil the brownies. Never leave them unattended, even for a second!

Serving:
1
brownie

,

Calories:
264
kcal

,

Carbohydrates:
34
g

,

Protein:
3
g

,

Fat:
14
g

,

Saturated Fat:
8
g

,

Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g

,

Monounsaturated Fat:
4
g

,

Trans Fat:
0.3
g

,

Cholesterol:
52
mg

,

Sodium:
174
mg

,

Potassium:
109
mg

,

Fiber:
2
g

,

Sugar:
24
g

,

Vitamin A:
293
IU

,

Calcium:
20
mg

,

Iron:
1
mg

Course:
Dessert

Author:

Sam Adler

Cuisine:
American

★

Did you make this recipe?
Please leave a star rating and review in the form below. I read them all!