Fudgy S’mores Brownies combine everything I love about the classic campfire treat—gooey marshmallows, crunchy graham crackers, and rich chocolate—into one decadent, oven-baked dessert. These brownies are layered to perfection and deliver all the texture and flavor of traditional s’mores with the deep, fudgy intensity of a homemade brownie.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how over-the-top and satisfying these brownies are. The brownie layer is thick and fudgy, the graham cracker base adds a buttery crunch, and the toasted marshmallow topping brings in that nostalgic s’mores flavor. I don’t need a campfire to enjoy this treat, and it’s perfect for any season. They’re a hit at parties, potlucks, or just when I want to treat myself to something rich and gooey.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Graham cracker crumbs
- Unsalted butter, melted (for the crust)
- Granulated sugar
- Semi-sweet chocolate or chocolate chips
- Unsalted butter (for brownie batter)
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Brown sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Large marshmallows or mini marshmallows
- Extra graham cracker pieces and chocolate chunks (optional for topping)
Directions
- I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a square baking pan with parchment paper.
- To make the crust, I combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a bit of sugar, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan. I bake this crust for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden, then let it cool slightly.
- For the brownie batter, I melt butter and chocolate together until smooth, then whisk in the cocoa powder, sugars, eggs, and vanilla until the mixture is glossy and thick.
- I stir in the flour and salt just until combined—overmixing can ruin the fudgy texture.
- I pour the brownie batter over the baked crust and spread it evenly.
- I bake the brownies for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- I remove the pan from the oven, top the brownies with marshmallows (either whole or halved), and broil for 1–2 minutes until toasted. I watch closely—they brown fast!
- Once out of the oven, I press extra graham cracker pieces and chocolate chunks into the soft marshmallows for texture and presentation.
- I let the brownies cool completely before slicing—they cut cleaner once set.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 16 brownies. Prep time takes about 20 minutes, baking is 30 minutes, and I allow at least another 30 minutes for cooling before slicing. Total time is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Variations
I’ve added peanut butter chips or swirled in peanut butter for a nutty twist. Sometimes I make a cookie crust with crushed digestive biscuits or Oreos instead of graham crackers. For an extra gooey topping, I torch the marshmallows instead of broiling. I’ve even used flavored marshmallows like vanilla bean or chocolate for a fun upgrade.
storage/reheating
I store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. They’re best enjoyed at room temp, but I also like to warm them slightly in the microwave for that just-melted texture. If freezing, I wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I use a boxed brownie mix?
Yes, when I’m short on time, I use a boxed mix and layer it over the graham cracker crust. I just follow the package directions for the batter.
How do I keep the marshmallows from burning?
I keep a close eye during broiling and only toast for 1–2 minutes. I also rotate the pan for even browning and never walk away from the oven.
Can I use mini marshmallows instead of large ones?
Absolutely. I often use mini marshmallows for better coverage and easier slicing.
Do I need to let them cool before cutting?
Yes, I always let them cool completely. The brownies firm up and slice much cleaner once they’re set.
Can I make these ahead?
Definitely. I bake the whole pan a day in advance and store it covered. They’re even better the next day after the flavors settle.
Conclusion
Fudgy S’mores Brownies are my go-to when I want a dessert that’s rich, nostalgic, and crowd-pleasing. With their buttery graham cracker base, intense chocolate middle, and gooey toasted marshmallow topping, every bite hits all the right notes. Whether for holidays, parties, or just a weekend treat, these brownies never disappoint.
PrintFudgy S’mores Brownies
Fudgy S’mores Brownies are an indulgent treat that layers a buttery graham cracker crust with rich, gooey chocolate brownie and toasted marshmallows, capturing all the nostalgic flavors of s’mores without the campfire.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (includes cooling)
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for crust)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for crust)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for brownies)
- 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate or chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups mini marshmallows or 12–16 large marshmallows
- Optional: extra graham cracker pieces and chocolate chunks for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 2 tbsp sugar. Press firmly into the pan to form a crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
- In a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and chocolate until smooth. Stir in cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until glossy.
- Fold in flour and salt just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour brownie batter over cooled crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and top with marshmallows. Broil for 1–2 minutes until toasted—watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Press extra graham cracker pieces and chocolate chunks into the warm marshmallows if using.
- Cool completely in the pan before slicing into 16 squares.
Notes
- Use a boxed brownie mix for convenience; follow box instructions for batter.
- Mini marshmallows provide more even coverage and easier slicing.
- For a nutty twist, swirl in peanut butter or add peanut butter chips.
- Cool completely before cutting for clean slices.
- Use a kitchen torch instead of broiler for extra gooey topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
