Craving a sweet treat that’s easy to make and hard to resist? Oven-baked s’mores are the answer! This dessert combines gooey marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers all in one delightful bite. I’ll guide you step-by-step through the fun of creating this dessert masterpiece. Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into a world of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
To create these delicious oven-baked s’mores, you need simple ingredients. Here’s the list:
– Graham crackers
– Mini marshmallows
– Chocolate chips
– Creamy peanut butter
– Vanilla extract
– Sea salt (optional)
– Additional toppings
Gather these items before you start. You can find most of them in your pantry. This recipe is fun and easy! You can even let kids help out with the mixing and layering. The creamy peanut butter adds a new twist to the classic s’mores flavor. If you want, you can try different toppings, like nuts or candy.
For the full recipe, check the section above. Enjoy making these sweet treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
– Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key. A hot oven ensures your s’mores bake evenly and become deliciously gooey.
– Prepare Baking Dish
Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over the sides. This helps you lift the s’mores out easily once they cool.
Assembling the Layer
– Layer Graham Crackers
Break the graham crackers into halves. Place them flat on the bottom of your dish. Cover the entire base. You want a nice, solid layer to hold everything together.
– Mix Chocolate and Peanut Butter
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of chocolate chips and ½ cup of creamy peanut butter. Microwave this mix in 30-second bursts. Stir between each round until it melts and becomes smooth. Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix well.
Baking Process
– Pour and Spread Mixture
Once your chocolate-peanut butter mix is smooth, pour it over the graham crackers. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. This creates a rich layer of flavor.
– Add Marshmallows and Optional Toppings
Sprinkle 2 cups of mini marshmallows on top of the chocolate layer. If you love marshmallows, feel free to add more. For extra flavor, sprinkle some sea salt and graham cracker crumbs on top.
– Baking Time and Visual Cues
Place your dish in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You want the marshmallows to turn golden brown and gooey. When they look perfect, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift the s’mores out and cut them into squares. Enjoy the irresistible treat!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Melt
Chocolate Consistency
To get smooth chocolate, mix chocolate chips with peanut butter. Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time. Stop when the mix is smooth and shiny. This creates a rich layer for your s’mores.
Marshmallows Texture
For perfect marshmallows, use mini ones. They melt quickly and create a gooey top. Spread them evenly over the chocolate. The marshmallows will puff up and turn golden when baked. This adds a sweet crunch to each bite.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation Tips
Serve your s’mores on a rustic wooden platter. A colorful plate adds a fun touch. Drizzle with melted chocolate for extra flair. You can also add fresh berries for color. This makes your dessert look as good as it tastes.
Flavor Enhancements
Try different toppings to change the flavor. Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-salty mix. You can also layer in crushed nuts or other candies. These small changes can make your s’mores unique and exciting.
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your oven-baked s’mores easily. Try using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Dark chocolate gives a rich taste. You can also mix in some white chocolate for a fun twist.
Adding flavors like mint or spice can make s’mores unique. A few drops of mint extract can add a refreshing taste. You can sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. These little changes make a big impact!
Alternative Ingredients
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free graham crackers. They taste just as good and work well in the recipe. You can also try rice cereal as a base for a fun texture.
If nuts are a concern, skip the peanut butter. Instead, use a nut-free spread or just melt chocolate. Both choices keep the s’mores delicious and safe for everyone.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your oven-baked s’mores fresh, store them properly. Here’s how:
– Refrigeration Tips: Place leftover s’mores in an airtight container. They can last up to five days in the fridge. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap first. This extra layer helps retain moisture and flavor.
– Freezing S’mores: You can also freeze your s’mores. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then put them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy your s’mores warm, follow these reheating tips:
– Best Methods to Reheat: The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the s’mores on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps the marshmallows soft and gooey.
– Avoiding Sogginess: To avoid sogginess, do not cover the s’mores while reheating. This lets steam escape, keeping them just right. If using a microwave, heat for only 10-15 seconds. Check often to make sure they don’t get too hot or mushy.
FAQs
Can I make Oven-Baked S’mores ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Oven-Baked S’mores ahead of time. Prepare the layers and place them in the baking dish. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake them right away. This saves time and lets you enjoy them fresh from the oven.
How long will the s’mores last?
Oven-Baked S’mores can last for about 3 days when stored properly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember that they taste best fresh!
Can I use other types of crackers?
Absolutely! You can use any type of cracker you like. Graham crackers are classic, but try chocolate or even vanilla wafers for a twist. The key is to ensure they can hold the gooey toppings well. Experiment with what you have on hand!
How do I adjust for different oven types?
Different ovens can cook differently. If your oven runs hot, check the s’mores a minute or two early. If it runs cool, you might need to bake a bit longer. Keep an eye on the marshmallows. They should be golden brown and puffed up. This way, you avoid any burnt treats!
Full Recipe Summary
– Key Ingredients:
– 1 package of graham crackers
– 2 cups mini marshmallows
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– ½ cup creamy peanut butter
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon sea salt (optional)
– Additional graham cracker crumbs for topping (optional)
– Steps:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare a baking dish with parchment paper.
3. Layer graham crackers in the dish.
4. Melt chocolate and peanut butter; mix in vanilla.
5. Pour mixture over crackers and top with marshmallows.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden.
7. Cool, cut, and serve warm.
For the full recipe, check the earlier section!
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious oven-baked s’mores. We discussed the key ingredients, like graham crackers and chocolate chips. You learned step-by-step instructions, from preheating the oven to baking your treat.
Keep in mind the tips for perfecting texture and flavor. Don’t hesitate to try different variations or storage options. Baking s’mores is easy and fun. Enjoy your sweet creation with friends and family!
