No-Bake S'mores Brownies with Chocolate and Marshmallows
fantasticrecipe This post may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate, we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
I remember the first time I tasted s'mores brownies at a summer campfire. The gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers were pure magic. I knew I had to recreate that indulgence at home, but I wanted to make it even simpler. After a few trials, I perfected these no-bake s'mores brownies that are just as decadent yet incredibly easy to make.
What sets this recipe apart is the no-bake factor, which means you can enjoy that s'mores experience without turning on the oven. Plus, the layers of chocolate and marshmallow create a pleasureful texture and flavor contrast that’s simply tempting. You won't find a more satisfying treat for those lazy afternoons or spontaneous get-togethers!
Why You'll Love It
Ingredient Notes
What You'll Need
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powderchoose a high-quality cocoa for a rich, deep chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed cocoa will give a smoother taste.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, siftedsifting helps aerate the flour, resulting in lighter brownies that aren't too dense.
- 2 cups granulated sugarthis sweetens the brownies and contributes to their fudgy texture; granulated sugar is essential for the right consistency.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, meltedunsalted allows you to control the saltiness; melted butter creates a moist texture and helps with mixing.
- 4 large eggs, at room temperatureroom temperature eggs blend more easily and create a better rise in your brownies.
- 1 tsp vanilla extractpure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor; imitation vanilla won’t provide the same depth.
- 1 tsp baking powderbaking powder helps the brownies rise slightly and gives them a lighter texture.
- 1 cup mini marshmallows, for toppingthese add that classic S'mores touch; mini ones melt beautifully.
- 1 cup chocolate chips, for toppinguse semi-sweet for a good balance of sweetness; dark chocolate will give a richer flavor.
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs, for toppingthese create that iconic S'mores flavor; try using cinnamon-flavored for an extra kick.
- 1/4 cup milkmilk adds moisture and a little creaminess to the brownies.
When shopping, opt for high-quality chocolate and cocoa powder, as they significantly impact the flavor of your S'mores brownies. Brands like Ghirardelli or Callebaut are favorites of mine for their rich taste. Fresh ingredients always yield the best results, so check the dates on your baking powder and vanilla extract.
Easy Substitutions
- Dairy-free: swap unsalted butter for coconut oil — the brownies will have a subtle coconut flavor and remain rich, but the texture might be a tad denser.
- Gluten-free: swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend — you'll still get a fudgy brownie, but it may be slightly less chewy.
- Egg-free: swap each egg for 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce — this will keep the brownies moist but may lead to a softer, cake-like texture.
- Lower calorie: swap granulated sugar for a sugar substitute like erythritol — the brownies will be less sweet and may have a different texture, but it cuts down calories significantly.
How to Make This Recipe
Prep & Mix
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your brownies won't stick and will come out perfectly shaped.
In a large bowl, mix melted butter with granulated sugar until combined. You want a glossy mixture that looks like wet sand—that's the sugar incorporating into the butter.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to create a rich and fudgy texture, so take your time and mix until smooth.
Stir in vanilla extract, mixing until combined. The aroma of vanilla will fill your kitchen—it's a warm hug of flavor!
In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing any bitter bites.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can make the brownies tough, so stop as soon as you see no dry flour.
Bake
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. It should look thick and smooth—almost like a brownie batter should!
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs on top. This creates that classic S'mores flavor profile that you crave.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the marshmallows are lightly browned. You’ll know they’re ready when they puff up and get that golden hue.
Cool & Serve
Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares. This allows the layers to set nicely, making them easier to handle.
Serve warm, optionally drizzled with chocolate sauce for extra indulgence. Trust me, it’s worth every minute spent waiting!
Pro Tips
The chocolate really shines in S'mores Brownies. I prefer using a rich dark chocolate bar for a deeper flavor. Trust me, it enhances the entire dessert and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Before adding marshmallows to the brownie batter, give them a quick toast under the broiler. It creates a lovely caramelization that adds a depth of flavor and beautiful texture. I do this for an extra layer of that classic S'mores vibe.
After baking, let your brownies cool completely, then chill them in the fridge for at least an hour. This makes cutting them much easier and helps the layers set, giving you cleaner edges. I've learned this the hard way with messy cuts!
Feel free to get creative! Chopped nuts or crushed graham crackers can add a pleasureful crunch. I once tossed in some peanut butter chips, and it was a total hit—my new favorite twist!
Variations & Customizations
Flavor Twists
Peanut Butter Cup:
Mix in ½ cup creamy peanut butter with the melted butter before adding the eggs. Top with 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups instead of chocolate chips. The result is a rich, nutty brownie that oozes with peanut butter goodness, making each bite feel rich and satisfying.
Mint Chocolate:
Incorporate 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the batter and use 1 cup of dark chocolate chips instead of regular ones. The brownies take on a refreshing minty flavor, reminiscent of your favorite mint chocolate treats, with a glossy dark top that is simply tempting.
Unexpected Variations
Spicy S'mores:
Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for a surprising kick. Use 1 cup of spicy dark chocolate chips in place of the regular ones. The result is a pleasureful contrast between the sweetness of the s'mores and a warm, spicy heat that lingers just a bit, making these brownies a bold twist on the classic. Perfect for those who love a little adventure in their dessert!
Storage & Meal Prep
How to Store
Room Temperature
Your S'mores Brownies can hang out at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just pop them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and moist. I recommend using a container that’s not too tall, so they don’t squish together.
Refrigerator
If you want to extend their life, they’ll stay good for about a week in the fridge. Make sure to cool them completely first, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. A shallow, airtight container works well for storage, too.
Freezer
For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. I always flash freeze them on a sheet pan first, then wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
Be careful! They’ll get soggy on the bottom if you stack them while still warm, so always ensure they cool completely before storing.
Meal Prep
I recommend doubling the recipe if you want to stock up on these delicious treats. You can prep them the night before or even on the weekend. Store them in a single layer in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for about a week. To reheat, microwave for about 15-20 seconds for that gooey, melty goodness!
Equipment You'll Need
Essential
9x13 inch baking pan: This size is crucial for achieving that perfect brownie thickness. A glass pan can help with even baking and browning, while a metal pan typically gives you a crisper edge. I prefer metal for these brownies to get those chewy corners that everyone fights over!
Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows for thorough mixing without splatters. Opt for glass or stainless steel for durability and easy cleanup. I often use a glass bowl so I can see the consistency of the batter as I mix.
Nice to Have
Rubber spatula: This tool helps scrape every bit of batter from the bowl, ensuring no deliciousness goes to waste. It’s also great for folding in the chocolate chips and marshmallows evenly. A sturdy silicone spatula is my favorite for its flexibility and heat resistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor in your S'mores Brownies. Just remember that it may make the brownies a bit softer, so you might need to adjust baking time slightly.
Why did my brownies come out dry?
Dry brownies often result from overbaking or using too much flour. Make sure to check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure it has a good binding agent, like xanthan gum, to maintain the texture.
How can I add more flavor to my S'mores Brownies?
Adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor beautifully. You can also experiment with flavored marshmallows for a fun twist!
How long do S'mores Brownies last?
S'mores Brownies can last about 3-5 days at room temperature in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerating them can extend their freshness for up to a week.
These S'mores Brownies are a pleasureful blend of gooey chocolate and toasted marshmallows, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and making memories. For the best texture, let them cool completely before cutting — trust me, it makes a difference! I can't wait to see how yours turn out, so leave a comment or share your creations with me on Pinterest!
No-Bake S'mores Brownies with Chocolate and Marshmallows
by fantasticrecipe
Indulge in rich, fudgy brownies topped with melted chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers for a delightful S'mores treat.
Save this recipe!
Enter your email and we'll send it straight to your inbox.
Ingredients
Makes 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
Method
- 1
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- 2
Mix melted butter and granulated sugar until combined.
- 3
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- 4
Stir in vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- 5
Whisk together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- 6
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- 7
Pour brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- 8
Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- 9
Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs on top.
- 10
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until marshmallows are lightly browned.
- 11
Let brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares.
- 12
Serve warm, optionally with a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Nutrition (per serving)
If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a ⭐ star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below.
Ratings & Reviews
Be the first to review this recipe!
