Decadent S'mores Chocolate Brownies
These Decadent S'mores Chocolate Brownies are the ultimate indulgence. Combining the classic flavors of s'mores with rich chocolate brownies, each bite is a gooey delight. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home, these brownies are sure to impress everyone.
Why This Decadent S'mores Chocolate Brownies Recipe Works
This recipe perfectly blends the classic flavors of s'mores with the rich texture of brownies. The combination of semi-sweet chocolate and gooey marshmallows creates a delightful contrast in every bite. Plus, the addition of graham crackers adds an authentic s'mores crunch that elevates the entire dessert.
Using high-quality chocolate is key to achieving that rich flavor and fudgy texture. The method of baking and adding marshmallows at the right time ensures they remain fluffy and not overly burnt. This attention to detail transforms a simple brownie into a decadent treat.
💡 Professional Tip
For an extra indulgent twist, consider adding a layer of thinly sliced chocolate bars between the brownie batter and the marshmallow topping. This will create a melty chocolate center that's hard to resist. Always make sure to cool the brownies completely before slicing for clean edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, these brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to a week, or freeze them for several months.
You can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine for a dairy-free version. Make sure to use unsalted options for both substitutes and melt them before incorporating them into the recipe to maintain the texture.
These brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick comes out wet with batter, they need a few more minutes in the oven. The edges should be set while the center remains slightly soft.
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying them again.
These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For an extra touch, serve them with whipped cream and fresh berries for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
In the refrigerator, these brownies can last up to a week when stored properly in an airtight container. However, the texture may change slightly, becoming denser but still delicious.
Yes, you can prepare the brownie batter ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bring it back to room temperature before putting it in the oven to ensure even baking.
To reheat, place the brownies in a microwave-safe dish and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 10-15 seconds or until warm. Alternatively, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their fudgy texture.
Recipe Troubleshooting Guide
Too Dry
Problem: Brownies that are dry can result from overbaking or not having enough fat in the recipe.
Solution: To fix dry brownies, ensure you are accurately measuring your ingredients, particularly flour. Adding an extra egg or some melted chocolate can help restore moisture.
Not Crispy Enough
Problem: If your brownies lack that desired crispy top, it may be due to not mixing the sugar and eggs sufficiently.
Solution: Ensure you beat the sugar and eggs for a good amount of time to incorporate air, which helps achieve a crispy top. You may also try adding a bit more sugar to the mix.
Overcooked
Problem: Overcooked brownies can become hard and crumbly.
Prevention: To prevent overcooking, set your timer and check the brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Use the toothpick method for checking doneness.
Undercooked Center
Problem: An undercooked center will leave your brownies gooey and not set.
Recovery: If you find that your brownies are undercooked, return them to the oven for an additional 5-minute intervals until finished. Cover with foil if the top is getting too dark.
Burnt Exterior
Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the oven temperature is too high or if the brownies are baked for too long.
Prevention: To prevent this, always check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer and rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
Flavor Balance
Too Sweet: If the brownies are too sweet, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
Too Salty: If they taste too salty, try serving with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream to counteract the saltiness.
Bland: If the brownies taste bland, add a splash more of vanilla extract or a small pinch of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Essential Ingredients for Decadent S'mores Chocolate Brownies
Key ingredients for these brownies include high-quality cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich chocolate flavor. The butter adds moisture, while the eggs provide structure. Mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers bring the classic s'mores flavor that makes these brownies irresistible.
Using fresh ingredients is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Opt for unsalted butter to maintain control over the salt level in your brownies. Additionally, choose high-quality chocolate for a deep, satisfying taste.
Essential Ingredient Notes
- Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter allows for better control of the recipe's saltiness. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and to achieve a smooth batter.
- Cocoa Powder: Using high-quality cocoa powder ensures a rich, chocolatey flavor. Look for unsweetened varieties for the best results in this recipe.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Opt for semi-sweet chocolate chips to enhance the fudgy texture and provide a nice balance of sweetness in the brownies. They melt beautifully during baking, creating pockets of gooey chocolate.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Making these brownies is straightforward. Begin by melting the butter and mixing it with sugar and eggs. Then gradually incorporate the dry ingredients for a smooth batter. This method ensures that the brownies turn out fudgy and rich.
As you bake, be sure to monitor the time closely to prevent overbaking. The final addition of mini marshmallows and graham crackers creates that classic s'mores experience, resulting in a brownie that is both chewy and crispy.
Key Technique for Perfect Decadent S'mores Chocolate Brownies
The most important technique for achieving the perfect texture is not to overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added. This helps keep the brownies soft and fudgy. Additionally, adding the marshmallows towards the end of baking ensures they are just toasted and not burnt.
Decadent S'mores Chocolate Brownies
📋 Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup butterRoom temperature
- 1 cup heavy creamFor richness
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chipsFor drizzling
- 1/2 cup powdered sugarFor sweetness
- 1 tsp vanilla extractFor flavor
For the Sauce
- 1 cup unsalted butterMelted
- 2 cups granulated sugarFor sweetness
- 4 large eggsRoom temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extractFor flavor
- 1 cup all-purpose flourFor structure
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powderFor richness
- 1 tsp baking powderFor leavening
- 1/2 tsp saltFor balance
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chipsFor pockets of chocolate
- 1 cup mini marshmallowsFor s'mores flavor
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackersFor topping
- 1/2 cup chocolate syrupFor drizzling
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Melt Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat.
Mix Sugar and Eggs
Stir in the sugar, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add Vanilla
Mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until well-combined.
Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips and half of the crushed graham crackers.
Bake Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 minutes.
Add Toppings
Remove from oven, sprinkle the mini marshmallows and remaining graham crackers on top, then drizzle with chocolate syrup.
Final Bake
Return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or until marshmallows are golden.
Cool and Serve
Allow to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.
Recipe Notes & Tips
Storage Tips
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, where they can last up to a week. If you freeze them, wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these decadent brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For an extra treat, offer them with whipped cream and fresh berries on the side.
Recipe Variations
To mix things up, try adding peanut butter chips or nuts to the brownie batter. You can also make them gluten-free by swapping out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Experimenting with different toppings like toffee bits or coconut can create unique variations.