Smores Brownies
If you’ve ever found yourself torn between the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies and the nostalgic, gooey delight of s’mores, then you’re in for a treat! Smores Brownies combine the best of both worlds, delivering a decadent chocolate experience paired with the campfire classic flavors of graham crackers and marshmallows. These brownies hold a special place in any dessert lover’s heart, making them perfect for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why Cooks Rave About It
Smores Brownies are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The chewy brownie base, combined with a luscious layer of marshmallow fluff and a creamy cream cheese topping, creates a dessert that is not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying. Here are a few reasons why these brownies are a hit:
- Rich Chocolate Flavor: The unsweetened chocolate gives these brownies a deep chocolate flavor that is utterly irresistible.
- Gooey Marshmallow Layer: The marshmallow fluff adds a sweet, gooey texture that perfectly complements the dense brownie.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can create these delicious brownies.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, a picnic, or just a treat for yourself, Smores Brownies fit right in.
What Goes Into Smores Brownies
Creating the perfect Smores Brownies requires a few key ingredients that work harmoniously to bring out the best flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 1/2 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This forms the base of our brownies.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a rich, caramel-like flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the brownies rise and become fluffy.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes and chilled: Essential for a moist brownie texture.
- 1/3 cup honey: Natural sweetness that complements the chocolate.
- 5 tablespoons milk: Adds moisture to the batter.
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract: For a warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 jar marshmallow fluff: The star of the show that brings that s’mores flavor.
- 1 block cream cheese, softened: Adds a creamy layer on top.
- 3/4 cup flour: For the cream cheese mixture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cream cheese layer rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the cream cheese.
- 1/2 teaspoon instant coffee: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness to the cream cheese layer.
- 3 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped: For that deep chocolate flavor.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese layer.
- 2 eggs: Binds the cream cheese mixture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Adds flavor to the cream cheese layer.
Cook’s Kit
Before you start baking, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:
- Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients easily.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing wet and dry ingredients.
- Spatula: Ideal for spreading the marshmallow fluff evenly.
- 9×13-inch baking pan: The perfect size for these brownies.
- Parchment Paper: For easy removal of the brownies from the pan.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Oven Mitts: To protect your hands when handling the hot pan.
Smores Brownies — Do This Next
Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your Smores Brownies:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line your 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 1/2 cups plus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of dark brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 3/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk together until combined.
In another bowl, melt the 7 tablespoons of chilled unsalted butter and 3 ounces of chopped unsweetened chocolate together. You can use a microwave or a double boiler for this. Once melted, let it cool slightly before adding 1/3 cup of honey, 5 tablespoons of milk, 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract, and 1 egg. Stir until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix!
Step 4: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
While the brownies are baking, prepare the cream cheese layer. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 block of softened cream cheese, 3/4 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of instant coffee, 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Beat the mixture until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Layer the Marshmallow Fluff
Once the brownies are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Spread the jar of marshmallow fluff evenly over the brownie layer, then pour the cream cheese mixture on top.
Step 7: Bake Again
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cream cheese layer is set and lightly golden on top.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the Smores Brownies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps
If you need to make these brownies dairy-free or gluten-free, consider the following swaps:
- Dairy-Free Butter: Use a plant-based butter alternative.
- Non-Dairy Cream Cheese: Opt for a dairy-free cream cheese product.
- Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
- Unsweetened Chocolate: Ensure it’s dairy-free or use a dairy-free chocolate alternative.
Cook’s Commentary
These Smores Brownies are a delightful treat that encapsulates the essence of summer campfires. The combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and a creamy topping will surely bring smiles to everyone who tries them. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or add in some crushed graham crackers for an extra crunch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – you can customize it to suit your tastes!
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
To store your Smores Brownies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Cut the brownies into squares, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until warm. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for an even more indulgent treat!
Handy Q&A
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! Smores Brownies can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container and they’ll stay delicious!
What if I don’t have marshmallow fluff?
You can make your own marshmallow fluff by beating egg whites and sugar together until fluffy, or you can use mini marshmallows as a substitute.
Can I add nuts to the brownies?
Yes, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be added to the brownie batter for extra texture and flavor.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Stick a toothpick in the center of the brownies; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If there’s wet batter, give them a few more minutes.
Quick Weeknight Wins
See You at the Table
There you have it! A scrumptious recipe for Smores Brownies that is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging yourself, these brownies are a perfect choice. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a slice of heaven right at home. Happy baking!
Smores Brownies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly.
- Line your 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, dark brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until combined.
- In another bowl, melt the chilled unsalted butter and chopped unsweetened chocolate together. Let it cool slightly before adding honey, milk, vanilla extract, and 1 egg. Stir until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix!
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- While the brownies are baking, prepare the cream cheese layer. Combine softened cream cheese, flour, baking powder, salt, instant coffee, unsalted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Beat until smooth and creamy.
- Once the brownies are done baking, let them cool for about 10 minutes. Spread marshmallow fluff evenly over the brownies, then pour the cream cheese mixture on top.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cream cheese layer is set and lightly golden on top.
- Allow the Smores Brownies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped brownies for up to 3 months.
- Reheat by thawing at room temperature or microwaving for a few seconds.
