S’mores: The Ultimate Guide

Let’s be real—nothing screams summer nostalgia quite like a warm, gooey, chocolate-dripping s’more. Whether you’re huddled around a crackling campfire or toasting marshmallows over your stovetop like a grown-up with an open flame and a dream, s’mores are the forever-favorite treat that never goes out of style.

They’re sweet, messy, and ridiculously simple to make. And once you bite into the crisp graham cracker sandwiching that melted chocolate and perfectly toasted marshmallow? Heaven. (And possibly sticky fingers—but worth it.)

So if you’re wondering how to make s’mores the classic way, how to mix them up with new flavors, or what tools can make it even easier, this post is your one-stop guide. Let’s turn up the heat and get gooey.

Ingredients (Per S’more)

This recipe makes 1 serving, but let’s be honest—you’re not stopping at one.

• 1 large marshmallow
• 1 graham cracker (broken in half to make two squares)
• 1–2 squares of a milk chocolate bar (like Hershey’s)

Double, triple, or quadruple this for a crowd—or for yourself. No judgment.

Key Ingredients

Let’s start with the basics—the holy trinity of ingredients that make the classic s’more:

Chocolate

Traditionally, you use a milk chocolate bar—think Hershey’s classic. It melts quickly, adds creamy sweetness, and keeps things delightfully retro. But you can totally experiment with:

• Dark chocolate for a richer taste
• Caramel-filled bars (hello, elevated gooeyness)
• Peanut butter cups (yes, this is allowed and encouraged)

Marshmallows

We’re talking about those puffy white clouds of sugar joy. A standard-sized large marshmallow works best for even toasting and sandwiching. You can also try:

• Jumbo marshmallows (for the brave)
• Square marshmallows (they fit graham crackers perfectly!)
• Vegan or flavored marshmallows

Graham Crackers

Graham crackers are the crispy bookends to your s’more story. Use classic honey graham crackers, or go bold with:

• Chocolate grahams
• Cinnamon sugar grahams
• Gluten-free or low-sugar options

Optional Extras:

• Flavored spreads (Nutella, cookie butter, peanut butter)
• Thinly sliced fruit (strawberries, bananas)
• A pinch of sea salt to level-up the flavor

How to Make S’mores (Step-by-Step)

Whether you’re outside under the stars or inside in your PJs, making a s’more is more art than science. Here’s how to perfect it.

1. Get Your Gear Ready

You’ll need:

• A stick or skewer (metal or wood—just make sure it’s fire-safe)
• Your graham crackers and chocolate prepped
• A fire source (campfire, fire pit, grill, gas burner, or even a broiler)

2. Toast the Marshmallow

Carefully hold your marshmallow over your heat source. Slow and steady is key—you want golden brown, not burnt to a crisp (unless you like that burnt sugar vibe—totally valid).

Rotate slowly for even toasting. When the outside is caramelized and the inside is gooey and soft, it’s ready.

3. Assemble Your S’mores

Place the chocolate on one graham cracker square. Top it with your hot marshmallow straight off the stick. Quickly place the second graham cracker on top and gently press down.

Pro Tip: That warm marshmallow will partially melt the chocolate, giving you the ultimate gooey bite.

4. Let It Cool Slightly… Then Devour

Give it a few seconds so you don’t burn your mouth (again). Then, enjoy the most satisfying, nostalgic treat ever.

Ways to Enjoy (aka The S’mores Remix Section)

Let’s break the rules for a minute—classic s’mores are iconic, but these fun variations will take your marshmallow game to new heights:

S’mores with Peanut Butter Cups

Swap your chocolate bar with a peanut butter cup. You won’t regret it.

Strawberry Shortcake S’more

Add thin-sliced strawberries and a layer of whipped cream or marshmallow fluff.

Elvis-Style

Add a smear of peanut butter and a couple of banana slices before stacking.

Coconut Dream

Use dark chocolate and sprinkle shredded coconut between the layers.

Holiday S’mores Indoors

Use peppermint bark chocolate in winter for a holiday twist—or try a gingerbread cookie instead of graham crackers.

Must-Have Tools for S’more-Making

If you’re planning on making s’mores more than once (which you will), these tools make it easier, safer, and way more fun.

Tool	Why You’ll Love It
Telescoping Roasting Sticks	Extendable, reusable, and safe for kids—great for camping or backyard fires.
Cast Iron S’mores Maker	Indoor game-changer. Melt marshmallows in the oven or on the grill, tabletop-style.
Graham Cracker Holder	Yes, this exists. Helps you hold your s’more while building or eating it. Genius.
Portable Fire Pit	For when you want that campfire vibe but don’t have a backyard.
S’mores Caddy	Keeps everything organized for travel, parties, or just s’mores night.

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Tips for the Best S’mores Ever

S’mores seem simple—and they are—but a few smart tricks can take yours from good to legendary.

Use Gentle Heat

If your marshmallow bursts into flames, your heat source might be too strong. Move it farther from the flame and rotate for a perfect golden crust.

Pre-Warm the Chocolate

Want extra melty goodness? Set your chocolate-covered graham cracker near the fire (not too close!) for 30 seconds before sandwiching. It softens just enough for that smooth melt.

Watch the Stickiness

Keep wet wipes or a damp paper towel nearby if you’re not a fan of marshmallow fingers (though honestly, it’s part of the charm).

Storing S’mores Supplies

Keep graham crackers in an airtight container to prevent sogginess. Marshmallows last longer when stored in a cool, dry place—and you can even freeze them if needed!

FAQs

Why S’mores Are the Ultimate Treat

No matter your age, your schedule, or your kitchen setup, s’mores deliver instant joy in a way very few desserts can. Whether you’re at a campsite, on your apartment balcony, or chilling by a fire pit with friends, making s’mores is a memory in the making. So go ahead—grab the marshmallows, fire up the flame, and get messy.

Share Your S’more Game!

Did you make this recipe? Tag @AdultingLikeAGrownUp on Instagram or Threads and show us your gooey masterpiece! Bonus points if you tried one of the remix ideas.

Pin this guide for your next BBQ, camping trip, or spontaneous s’mores craving.

S’more season is officially ON.

More Classic Cookout Combo Recipes:

• The Best Hamburger Patty Recipe (Thick or Thin!)
• The BEST Grilled Hot Dogs You’ll Ever Make
• Classic Potato Salad – A Quick & Easy Recipe
• Homemade Lemonade: A Simple Recipe
• Spiked Strawberry Lemonade: Your New Favorite Recipe

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