Craving something sweet and gooey? Let me introduce you to the S'mores Skillet Brownie! This dessert packs all the flavors of classic s'mores into a warm, chocolatey treat. With layers of rich brownie, melted chocolate, and toasty marshmallows, it’s perfect for making memories around the table. Follow my easy steps, tips, and variations to create a dish that everyone will love. Get ready to indulge in this irresistible sweet delight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and crunchy graham crackers creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this indulgent dessert in no time, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Shareable Delight: Baking in a skillet allows for easy serving, making it a fun dessert to share with friends and family around the table.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize your S'mores Skillet Brownie with your favorite toppings, such as nuts or different types of chocolate, for a personal touch.
Ingredients
Detailed List of Ingredients
To make a S'mores Skillet Brownie, you need the following:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- Extra chocolate chips and marshmallows for topping
Measurements for Perfect Results
Accuracy is key for great brownies. Here are some tips:
- Use a liquid measuring cup for butter.
- Weigh your brown sugar if possible. It packs down easily.
- Crack eggs into a bowl first to check for shells.
- Level flour and cocoa with a knife for precision.
- Use a kitchen scale for chocolate chips if you want to be exact.
Notes on Ingredient Substitutions
You can make smart swaps if needed:
- Substitute coconut oil for butter for a dairy-free option.
- Use brown sugar only for a richer flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, try almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a deeper taste.
- You can skip the marshmallows for a less sweet treat.
These ingredient choices will help you create a delicious S'mores Skillet Brownie that suits your taste. Enjoy experimenting!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large mixing bowl. Whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. This mix should feel creamy. Next, add the eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then, pour in the vanilla extract for flavor.
In a separate bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt together. This step helps to mix the dry ingredients well. Slowly fold the dry mix into the wet mix using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; it should be just combined. Now, stir in the chocolate chips and half of the crushed graham crackers.
Pour the brownie batter into a greased 12-inch cast-iron skillet. Smooth the top with your spatula.
Baking Instructions
Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! Check with a toothpick. It should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Once ready, take the skillet out of the oven.
Now comes the fun part! Immediately top the warm brownie with an even layer of mini marshmallows, the rest of the graham crackers, and extra chocolate chips.
Tips for Broiling Marshmallows
Return the skillet to the oven. Set it to broil on high for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely! You want the marshmallows to turn golden brown and toasted. They can burn fast, so stay nearby. After broiling, let the skillet cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps set the layers.
Now, your S'mores Skillet Brownie is ready to serve! Enjoy the gooey, sweet delight!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Ideal Texture
To get the best texture, focus on mixing. When you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no flour. Overmixing makes brownies tough. Aim for a batter that is thick yet smooth. After baking, the center should be soft and fudgy. The edges can be a bit firmer. A toothpick test helps here; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Watch out for these common mistakes:
- Using cold eggs: Always use room temperature eggs. This helps them mix better.
- Skipping the broiling step: Broiling gives marshmallows that perfect toasted look. Don’t skip it!
- Not greasing the skillet: Grease your skillet well to avoid sticking. This makes serving much easier.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your brownies. They can go from perfect to dry quickly.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
Serve your S'mores Skillet Brownie warm. This makes the chocolate and marshmallows gooey. For extra fun, add graham crackers on the side for dipping. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the top. This adds flair and flavor. Consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a special treat. It’s a delightful contrast to the warm brownie. Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: Bringing your eggs to room temperature before mixing helps to create a smoother batter and better texture in your brownies.
- Don't Overmix: To keep your brownies fudgy, mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher brownies.
- Broil Carefully: When broiling the marshmallows, keep a close eye on them as they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to burnt in a matter of seconds.
- Serve with Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve your s'mores skillet brownie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!
Variations
Creative Twists on the Classic Recipe
You can easily change this S'mores Skillet Brownie to fit your taste. Try adding peanut butter chips alongside chocolate chips. This gives a nice nutty twist. Swap out the graham crackers for crushed cookies like Oreos for a fun flavor. You can also add different nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch. If you want a fruity touch, mix in some diced strawberries or raspberries.
Dietary Adaptations
If you have dietary needs, you can still enjoy this dessert. Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat. For a dairy-free version, swap the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips. If you need a low-sugar option, try using a sugar substitute like stevia. Just keep in mind, the taste may change a bit.
Flavor Additions and Substitutions
There are endless options for flavor in this dish. You can add a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor. For a minty twist, mix in some peppermint extract. If you love spices, add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You can even top it with flavored marshmallows like caramel or chocolate for an extra burst of taste.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your S'mores Skillet Brownie, let it cool completely. Once cooled, cover the skillet tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also transfer it to an airtight container. Stored this way, it will stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, the fridge is a better option.
Reheating Tips
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skillet in the oven for about 10-15 minutes. This warms it up nicely and keeps it soft. You can also microwave individual portions for about 30 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, as it can turn dry.
Freezing Instructions for Longer Storage
If you want to save your S'mores Skillet Brownie for later, freezing works well. First, let it cool completely. Cut it into squares for easy serving. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. This way, you can enjoy your brownie for up to three months. To serve, just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
What kind of skillet is best for this recipe?
The best skillet for S'mores Skillet Brownie is a 12-inch cast-iron skillet. This type of skillet gives even heat and keeps the brownie warm longer. You can also use an oven-safe skillet if you don't have cast iron. Just make sure it is deep enough to hold the batter and toppings.
Can I make S'mores Skillet Brownie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make S'mores Skillet Brownie ahead of time. Prepare the brownie batter and pour it into the skillet. Cover it well and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking. This helps it cook evenly.
How do I customize the toppings for my S'mores Skillet Brownie?
You can customize the toppings to match your taste. Here are some ideas:
- Use different types of chocolate chips, like peanut butter or white chocolate.
- Add nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Try different flavored marshmallows, like caramel or chocolate.
- Sprinkle some sea salt for a sweet and salty mix.
Feel free to mix and match to create your perfect S'mores Skillet Brownie!
This guide covered everything you need for the perfect S'mores Skillet Brownie. We went through the right ingredients, accurate measurements, and some great swaps. You learned clear steps to prepare and bake your treat, plus tips for broiling marshmallows. We shared tricks to get the best texture and avoid common mistakes. Don’t forget the fun variations and how to store leftovers for later. With these details, you can impress anyone with your skills. Get ready to enjoy every tasty bite of your creation!
