Skillet S’mores Brownies: Indulge in a Decadent Treat!

Introduction to Skillet S’mores Brownies

There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows. It takes me back to summer nights around the campfire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories. Now, I can bring that nostalgia into my kitchen with these Skillet S’mores Brownies. This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you crave a sweet treat without the fuss. It’s a delightful way to impress your loved ones or simply indulge yourself. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a warm, gooey dessert that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Skillet S’mores Brownies

These Skillet S’mores Brownies are a game-changer for dessert lovers. They come together in just 45 minutes, making them a quick solution for unexpected guests or a late-night craving. The rich chocolate flavor combined with the gooey marshmallows and crunchy graham crackers creates a taste explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, baking them in a skillet means less cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy this decadent treat with friends and family.

Ingredients for Skillet S’mores Brownies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious Skillet S’mores Brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture to the brownies, making them fudgy and decadent.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create that perfect crust on top.
• Brown sugar: Adds a hint of caramel flavor and keeps the brownies moist.
• Large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and providing structure.
• Vanilla extract: A must-have for enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the brownies, giving them that classic texture.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides the rich chocolate flavor that makes these brownies irresistible.
• Baking powder: Helps the brownies rise slightly, giving them a light texture.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: For those pockets of melty chocolate goodness throughout the brownies.
• Mini marshmallows: These create that gooey, s’mores-like topping that’s simply delightful.
• Graham cracker crumbs: Adds a crunchy texture and authentic s’mores flavor.

For those looking to switch things up, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder for a deeper chocolate flavor or folding in some chopped nuts for a delightful crunch. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Skillet S’mores Brownies

Creating these Skillet S’mores Brownies is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that will impress everyone. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures even baking, so your brownies come out perfectly gooey and delicious.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until everything is well combined. This step is crucial for that rich, sweet flavor.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. This will enhance the overall flavor and make your brownies even more irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients, ensuring a consistent texture in your brownies.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Finally, fold in the chocolate chips for those delightful pockets of melted chocolate.

Step 6: Prepare the Skillet

Grease a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or any oven-safe skillet with cooking spray. This will prevent the brownies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 7: Pour and Spread the Batter

Pour the brownie batter into the skillet and spread it evenly. Make sure it’s nice and smooth for even baking.

Step 8: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs over the top, followed by the mini marshmallows. This is where the s’mores magic happens!

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! The edges should be set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra treat. Trust me, it’s heavenly!

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature eggs for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined for fudgy brownies.
• Check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
• Let the brownies cool slightly before cutting for cleaner slices.
• Experiment with toppings like crushed nuts or chocolate drizzle for extra flair.

Equipment Needed

• 10-inch cast-iron skillet: Perfect for even baking; a regular oven-safe skillet works too.
• Mixing bowls: Use one large bowl for wet ingredients and another for dry.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing; a fork can work in a pinch.
• Spatula: Great for folding in ingredients and spreading the batter.

Variations

• Nutty Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Add dollops of peanut butter to the batter before baking for a rich, nutty flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative.
• Minty Fresh: Mix in a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist on the classic flavor.
• Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a more intense chocolate experience.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
• Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
• Serve alongside fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors.

FAQs about Skillet S’mores Brownies

Can I make Skillet S’mores Brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking for the best results.

What can I substitute for graham cracker crumbs?

If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers work well as a substitute. They’ll still give you that delightful crunch and flavor.

How do I store leftover brownies?

Store any leftover Skillet S’mores Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate them for a longer shelf life, but they’re best enjoyed fresh!

Can I freeze Skillet S’mores Brownies?

Yes! These brownies freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge before enjoying.

What’s the best way to reheat brownies?

To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will warm them up and make the chocolate chips gooey again. Pair it with ice cream for a delightful treat!

Final Thoughts

Making Skillet S’mores Brownies is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The aroma of chocolate wafting through your kitchen can transport you back to carefree days spent around a campfire. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, from the fudgy brownie base to the gooey marshmallows and crunchy graham crackers. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them solo, these brownies bring joy and comfort. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and indulge in this decadent treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!