I’m so excited to share these Layered S’mores Brownies with you today! There’s something magical about combining the fudgy richness of brownies with that classic campfire treat. The graham cracker base gives the perfect crunch, while that toasted marshmallow topping gets all gooey and caramelized. No campfire required, just your trusty oven. Ready in about 30 minutes, they’re my go-to when chocolate cravings hit. Want to know my secret for getting that perfectly crisp graham layer? Let’s explore the details…
Why You’ll Love these Layered S’mores Brownies
If you’ve ever found yourself torn between making brownies or s’mores for dessert, these layered treats solve that dilemma perfectly. They combine everything you adore about both classics—rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with that unmistakable s’mores magic.
I’m obsessed with how the graham cracker base adds a satisfying crunch, while the toasty marshmallow top creates that irresistible gooey texture. Can you imagine the aroma that fills your kitchen when these are baking? Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make. No campfire required, just your trusty oven and about 30 minutes of active time.
What Ingredients are in Layered S’mores Brownies?
To make these heavenly layered s’mores brownies, you’ll need just a handful of pantry staples that come together to create pure dessert magic.
- 6 graham cracker sheets
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
- 1⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1½ cups mini marshmallows
Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for the best incorporation, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you could swap the bittersweet chocolate chips for semi-sweet or even milk chocolate depending on your sweetness preference.
How to Make these Layered S’mores Brownies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. The parchment paper is your best friend here—trust me on this one.
Step 2: Create the Graham Cracker Base
Arrange 6 graham cracker sheets in a single layer on the bottom of your lined pan. This creates that authentic s’mores foundation we all know and love, and gives your brownies that perfect textural contrast.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt ¾ cup unsalted butter with 1 cup of bittersweet chocolate chips, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
Then mix in 1⅓ cups granulated sugar until well combined—the mixture will look slightly grainy, but that’s perfectly normal.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Add 2 large room temperature eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to your chocolate mixture, stirring until everything is thoroughly combined. Room temperature eggs really do make a difference in how they incorporate, creating a smoother batter.
Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in 1 cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt until just combined.
Careful not to overmix; we want these brownies fudgy, not tough. Pour this decadent batter over your graham cracker layer.
Step 6: First Bake
Bake the brownies for 20-22 minutes until they’re just set but still fudgy in the center.
Want a more cake-like texture? You can add a few minutes to the baking time, but remember—slightly underbaked is better than overbaked when it comes to brownies.
Step 7: Add the Marshmallow Layer
Sprinkle 1½ cups mini marshmallows evenly over the top of your partially baked brownies.
Return the pan to the oven for another 10-12 minutes until those marshmallows are beautifully toasted and golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow your layered s’mores brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang.
Cut into squares with a sharp knife, occasionally wiping the blade clean for neater cuts. Who knew you could capture campfire magic in a brownie?
For even more consistent and perfectly mixed batters, using a quality stand mixer will make this recipe even easier to prepare.
What to Serve with Layered S’mores Brownies
These indulgent brownies deserve some worthy companions! For a classic pairing, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts slightly against the warm brownie—heaven.
A tall glass of cold milk balances the richness perfectly, or try coffee for the adults (that chocolate-coffee combo never fails).
For a fun dessert board, add some fresh berries on the side—strawberries or raspberries cut through the sweetness beautifully.
If you’re feeling extra, drizzle caramel sauce over the top just before serving.
These brownies make a showstopping afternoon treat or the perfect finale to a casual dinner with friends.
The campfire vibes work year-round, no actual camping required.
Layered S’mores Brownies Substitutions and Variations
• Mix-ins & Toppings: Add ½ cup chopped nuts, peanut butter chips, or broken-up chocolate bars between layers.
Drizzle with chocolate ganache or sprinkle with crushed candy canes for holiday flair.
• Seasonal Twist: Mix in 2 tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice for fall, or add orange zest for bright summer flavor.
Leftovers and Storage for these Layered S’mores Brownies
These decadent treats stay fresh at room temperature for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Want to freeze them? Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
To refresh, warm refrigerated brownies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds—just enough to slightly soften the marshmallow layer without melting it completely.
The graham cracker base will soften slightly over time, creating an even more integrated s’mores experience, though they’re absolutely divine when freshly made!
Final Thoughts
These Layered S’mores Brownies capture everything we love about campfire s’mores in a convenient, portable package.
The contrast between the crisp graham cracker base, fudgy chocolate middle, and gooey toasted marshmallow top creates an irresistible texture experience in every bite.
They’re perfect for summer gatherings when you want the nostalgic taste of s’mores without the actual campfire, or during winter months when you’re craving those summer memories.
Whether for a potluck, after-school treat, or weekend baking project, these brownies bring a touch of outdoor magic right to your kitchen table—no bug spray required.