S’mores Brownies – The Ultimate Gooey Dessert You Can Bake at Home

If you’ve ever wished for campfire vibes in dessert form, S’mores Brownies are your dream come true. Imagine rich, fudgy brownies layered with graham cracker crunch, melted chocolate, and gooey marshmallows this is comfort baking on a whole new level.

Whether you’re baking for a family movie night, a weekend gathering, or just need something indulgent after a long day, this easy-to-make treat uses simple ingredients with maximum impact. And the best part? You don’t need a fire pit or special equipment just your oven and a single brownie mix box.
Looking for more dreamy bakes? Check out our Blue Velvet Brownies for a bold twist on classic brownies.

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PART 1: Why S’mores Brownies Are the Dessert You Didn’t Know You Needed

The Irresistible Combo of Chocolate, Marshmallows, and Crunch

S’mores have always held nostalgic power. When combined with the dense richness of brownies, they transform into something extra special. The marshmallows puff up and brown beautifully in the oven, the chocolate melts just enough to ooze with every bite, and the graham crackers offer the perfect crunch to balance all that goo.

Better Than Traditional Brownies

Brownies alone are great. But when topped with the classic trio of graham, marshmallows, and Hershey’s chocolate, you elevate your dessert game. It’s like taking your boxed mix and giving it a gourmet bakery-style makeover—with zero stress involved.

Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor

What makes this recipe so appealing is that it doesn’t require a long list of ingredients. You’re basically upgrading your boxed brownie mix with pantry staples like graham crackers and marshmallows. You’ll only need:

• 1 family-size brownie mix

• Eggs, water, oil (as per box instructions)

• Mini marshmallows

• Hershey’s chocolate bars or chips

• Graham crackers

Each ingredient plays its role in balancing texture, sweetness, and richness. Even better it’s fully customizable. Don’t have chocolate bars? Chocolate chips work. Gluten-free? Use a GF brownie mix and GF grahams.
Looking for a lighter twist? Try our refreshing Coconut Lime Chia Pudding Bars as a cool alternative.

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PART 2: Ingredients Breakdown for Perfect S’mores Brownies

Essential Ingredients (and Why They Work)

If you want the richest, gooiest S’mores Brownies, it starts with quality ingredients. This simple upgrade on traditional brownies blends nostalgic campfire flavors with fudgy texture.

• Brownie Mix (18.3 oz family-size) – Choose a fudge-style mix for extra gooeyness. This forms the chocolate base of your S’mores Brownies.

• Eggs, Water, and Oil – These help create the batter’s structure. Want cakier brownies? Follow box instructions exactly. For fudgy, use one less egg.

• Mini Marshmallows (2 cups) – When baked, they puff, brown, and melt into a sticky layer that defines true S’mores Brownies.

• Graham Crackers (6, broken up) – Essential for that crackly texture and to give these bars that authentic s’mores flavor.

 

• Hershey’s Chocolate Bars or Chocolate Chips – Melty chocolate swirls across the top, bringing home that fireside indulgence.

Ingredient Substitutions & Customization

One of the best things about S’mores Brownies is how flexible they are. Don’t have Hershey’s bars? No problem!

• Use chocolate chips or chopped baking chocolate

• Make it gluten-free with GF graham crackers and brownie mix

• Add a peanut butter swirl for salty-sweet contrast

• Sprinkle crushed pretzels for crunch

Don’t miss our Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for another easy dessert loaded with layers of flavor.

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PART 3: How to Make S’mores Brownies – Step-by-Step Guide

Making S’mores Brownies is easy, fun, and delivers big flavor in every bite. Here’s how to do it right:

1️⃣ Make the Batter

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a bowl, combine your brownie mix with eggs, oil, and water. Stir until smooth. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13″ pan, spreading evenly. This is the base of your S’mores Brownies.

2️⃣ Partial Bake

Bake the brownie base for 20 minutes. You’re looking for a set edge and soft center perfect for adding toppings in the next step.

3️⃣ Add the S’mores Toppings

Pull the pan out of the oven. While still hot, top your brownies with mini marshmallows, chunks of chocolate, and classic graham crackers for the crunch every s’mores dessert needs. This is where the S’mores Brownies magic starts.
Looking for more chocolate ideas? Check out these Hershey’s milk chocolate dessert recipes for fudgy, melty inspiration beyond brownies.

4️⃣ Finish Baking

Return to oven for 5 more minutes. Marshmallows should be puffed and lightly toasted. Chocolate soft but still holding shape.

5️⃣ Slice and Serve

Let your S’mores Brownies cool slightly. Slice while warm for gooey bars, or cool completely for cleaner cuts. A greased knife helps keep marshmallow from sticking.

For another nostalgic dessert twist, try our creamy Banana Pudding Milkshakes.

PART 4: Tips for Baking the Best S’mores Brownies Every Time

Getting your S’mores Brownies to come out perfectly gooey, crisp, and chocolatey depends on more than just ingredients—it’s also about baking technique. Here’s how to avoid the most common mistakes and elevate your brownie game.

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Watch the First Bake Closely

Since you’re baking the brownies in two stages, it’s important not to overbake the base during the first round. After 20 minutes, the center should be slightly underbaked.

✅ Test Tip: Insert a toothpick—if it comes out with moist crumbs (but not wet batter), it’s ready for toppings.

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Add the Toppings Quickly

Timing matters! As soon as your brownie base comes out of the oven, immediately sprinkle on the marshmallows, graham pieces, and chocolate. The residual heat helps melt everything evenly, giving those S’mores Brownies their signature top layer.

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Use the Broiler (Optional Trick)

Want perfectly golden marshmallows? After adding toppings, broil your S’mores Brownies for 30–60 seconds instead of rebaking. Keep a close eye—marshmallows burn quickly!

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Grease Your Knife for Slicing

Marshmallows love to stick. To get clean slices:

• Use a lightly greased knife

• Wipe between cuts

• Let brownies cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing

Looking for more dessert bar tips? Check out our Blue Velvet Brownies for a colorful twist on a classic treat.

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PART 5: Freezing, Storing & Gluten-Free S’mores Brownies Options

Whether you’re saving leftovers or prepping for a party, S’mores Brownies store beautifully—and yes, they freeze too!

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How to Store Them

Keep your S’mores Brownies soft and fresh by storing them in an airtight container:

Place parchment between layers to avoid sticking. The marshmallow top softens slightly over time but stays delicious.

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Can You Freeze S’mores Brownies?

Absolutely. S’mores Brownies freeze well if you let them cool completely first.

✅ How to freeze:

• Slice the bars and separate with parchment

• Store in a freezer-safe container

• Freeze for up to 2 months

Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge overnight. Avoid microwaving—they’ll become too soft or melt unevenly.

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How to Make Them Gluten-Free

To enjoy gluten-free S’mores Brownies, simply swap:

• A GF brownie mix for standard

• Gluten-free graham crackers

Mini marshmallows and chocolate are typically gluten-free, but always check labels for cross-contamination.

Want more easy, no-fuss desserts? Try our No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies for a creamy, chilled option.

PART 6: What to Serve with S’mores Brownies – Pairings & Presentation

S’mores Brownies are already a standout treat, but when paired with the right drinks, toppings, or accompaniments, they transform into the ultimate dessert board centerpiece.

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Best Drinks to Pair With S’mores Brownies

Because these brownies are sweet, rich, and gooey, pairing them with light or contrasting drinks enhances the experience.

• Cold Brew Coffee or Espresso: Cuts through the sweetness and complements the chocolate

• Iced Milk or Vanilla Almond Milk: Creamy and smooth, balances the marshmallow and graham flavors

• Hot Cocoa with Cinnamon: A cozy match for winter entertaining

• Chilled Pinot Noir (for adults): Great contrast for the chocolate depth

These combinations make S’mores Brownies perfect for everything from kids’ parties to after-dinner dessert spreads.

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How to Dress Them Up for Events

Want to take presentation to the next level?

• Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel just before serving

• Top with extra mini marshmallows and toast with a kitchen torch

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream

• Use mini brownie squares as part of a dessert tray

You can also mix-and-match these brownies with other themed treats try pairing them with our Coconut Lime Chia Pudding Bars for a refreshing citrus contrast!

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PART 7: S’mores Brownies FAQs – Expert Answers to Common Questions

We’ve rounded up the most frequently asked questions about making and customizing S’mores Brownies to help you troubleshoot and tweak with confidence.

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❓What kind of cocoa powder should you use for brownies?

For homemade brownies, use unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa for a deep, rich flavor. However, boxed brownie mixes already include cocoa, so you don’t need to add extra when making S’mores Brownies using a mix.

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❓What can you substitute for baking chocolate?

You can use semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped chocolate bars, or even dark chocolate pieces in place of baking chocolate. For the topping on your S’mores Brownies, Hershey’s bars or chocolate chips melt beautifully and deliver that campfire authenticity.

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❓Can you make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! To make gluten-free S’mores Brownies, just swap the standard brownie mix and graham crackers with certified gluten-free versions. Most chocolate and marshmallows are naturally GF, but double-check the labels for safety.

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❓Can you freeze S’mores Brownies?

Definitely. These brownies freeze well for up to 2 months. Slice and separate layers with parchment, and store in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy later, thaw at room temp or in the fridge overnight.

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S’mores Brownies aren’t just about flavor—they’re about the experience. Whether you’re baking them fresh or storing for later, this dessert is made to impress.

PART 8: Troubleshooting Common S’mores Brownies Mistakes

Even simple recipes like S’mores Brownies can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here’s how to avoid common issues and ensure that your brownies come out gooey, golden, and perfect every time.

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Mistake 1: Overbaking the Brownies

If you bake the base too long before adding toppings, your S’mores Brownies will turn dry or hard, making it difficult for toppings to melt in properly.

Fix:
Bake the brownie base only until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs (not clean). Don’t wait too long to add marshmallows and chocolate.

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Mistake 2: Marshmallows Burn or Collapse

This happens when the oven is too hot during the second bake or if you leave the brownies in too long.

Fix:
Only return the pan to the oven for 5 minutes—or broil for 30–45 seconds at most. Keep your eye on the marshmallows and pull them as soon as they’re puffed and slightly golden.

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Mistake 3: Brownies Stick to the Pan

Marshmallows can get sticky and messy without the right prep.

Fix:
Line your baking pan with parchment paper, and spray the edges lightly with oil. You can also grease your knife to slice through gooey marshmallow layers cleanly.

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Mistake 4: Toppings Fall Off After Baking

Did your graham crackers or chocolate slide off when you sliced your S’mores Brownies?

Fix:
Add toppings while the brownies are hot and press them down gently so they bond into the batter. Chill slightly before slicing for cleaner results.

Need a soft dessert alternative that always slices clean? Try our Juicy Pineapple Heaven Cake.

Final Thoughts – Why S’mores Brownies Are Worth the Bake

From their fudgy center to gooey toasted marshmallows and crisp graham cracker topping, S’mores Brownies are more than a dessert they’re an experience.

This recipe gives you the nostalgic flavor of classic campfire s’mores, but without the mess, smoke, or setup. It’s a bake-anytime, share-with-everyone treat that works for birthdays, potlucks, holiday trays, or just your average Tuesday night sweet tooth.

Here’s why these brownies should be in your regular dessert rotation:

• Only 7 ingredients

• No campfire required

• Ready in under 30 minutes

• Easily customized (gluten-free, nutty, peanut butter, extra chocolatey)

• Great to make with kids or for gifting

They store well, freeze even better, and guarantee satisfied smiles every time.

Want more layered dessert bar goodness? Don’t miss our Blueberry Cheesecake Swirl Cookies—soft, tangy, and full of creamy filling.