S’mores

Published: August 10, 2022

Total Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Introduction

A classic campfire or backyard staple, s’mores (pronounced "smores") combines toasted marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers for a nostalgic, gooey treat. This guide outlines the traditional campfire method and a convenient microwave alternative, plus tips for customization.

Ingredients

• 1 cup neutral cooking oil (e.g., canola, for greasing skewers)

• 12 regular marshmallows or 4 jumbo marshmallows (or substitute Peeps for a playful twist)

• 8 graham crackers (split into 2 squares each) or 16 saltine crackers

• 8–10 oz milk/dark chocolate (at room temperature or melted), cut into 1-inch squares

• Flaky salt (optional, for finishing)

Preparation: Traditional Campfire Method

Step 1: Campfire Setup

Build a small fire with dry logs and kindling. Allow the fire to burn down to a bed of hot embers (no flames) for optimal roasting.

Step 2: Roasting Skewers

Use metal skewers (stainless steel/iron) for safety and durability. Avoid wooden skewers (risk of burning) or flammable sticks. For stability, use double-pronged roasting sticks or extra-long metal skewers (12–18 inches).

Step 3: Grease Skewers & Thread Marshmallows

Rub the skewer tips with neutral oil using a paper towel to prevent marshmallow stickiness. Skewer 2 regular marshmallows or 1 jumbo marshmallow per skewer.

Step 4: Melt Chocolate for Silky Texture

To ensure smooth, even chocolate coating:

• Campfire Method: Place chocolate in a small metal bowl, suspend over low embers, and stir gently until melted (avoid scorching by keeping the bowl 1–2 inches above the embers).

• Microwave Method: For convenience, heat chocolate at 50% power for 15–20 seconds, stir, and repeat until smooth (adjust time based on wattage; 700W = 15s, 1000W = 20s).

Spread melted chocolate evenly over a graham cracker square. Sprinkle with flaky salt if desired.

Step 5: Roast Marshmallows to Perfection

Hold the skewer over the campfire flames, rotating continuously for 2–3 minutes until the marshmallow is golden-brown, gooey, and slightly slumped. For a charred exterior, briefly dip the tip into the flames, then blow out remaining fire. A perfect marshmallow has a glossy crust and molten center (no burnt flavor).

Step 6: Assemble & Enjoy

Transfer the roasted marshmallow directly onto the chocolate-topped cracker. Press a plain graham cracker gently against the skewer to spread the marshmallow and chocolate layers. Remove the skewer, ensuring the marshmallow adheres to the chocolate. Serve immediately to preserve the gooey texture.

Alternative: Microwave S’mores (No Fire Required)

For indoor efficiency:

1. Place 1 graham cracker on a microwave-safe plate.

2. Top with 1–2 chocolate squares; microwave at 70% power for 15 seconds, stir, and heat 5 seconds more until smooth.

3. Microwave 1 marshmallow at 100% power for 5–10 seconds (depending on size) until puffed and golden.

4. Top with the second graham cracker, press lightly, and microwave at 50% power for 10 seconds to meld layers.

5. Let cool 30 seconds before eating to avoid burns.

Variations & Pro Tips (From Reader Feedback)

• Reese’s Twist: Swap chocolate for a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup for saltiness and creaminess.

• Embers-Roasted Marshmallows: For a crackled exterior, roast over cool embers (no flame) for 3–4 minutes, rotating slowly.

• Peeps Substitute: Roast Peeps marshmallows until sugar caramelizes (a child-friendly "roast chicken" treat!).

• Graham Cracker Quality: Use Nabisco "red box" graham crackers for authentic texture and flavor.

• Chocolate Upgrade: Try Hershey’s Symphony bars (toffee + almonds) with flaky salt for added complexity.

Key Notes

• A well-roasted marshmallow balances a golden crust with a molten center—no burnt taste, please!

• To prevent chocolate from seizing: Melt in small batches, stir frequently, and avoid overheating.

Savor the nostalgia, texture, and flavor of s’mores, whether by campfire, microwave, or creative twist. Repeat until the plate is empty!