Oven S’mores (Updated July 23, 2024)

Recipe Overview

  • Total Time: 10 minutes

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes

  • Cook Time: 5 minutes

  • Servings: 8 s’mores (based on 16 graham crackers, 4 chocolate bars, 8 marshmallows)

Ingredients

  • 16 graham crackers (or alternative cookies/crackers, e.g., vanilla wafers)

  • 4 ounces dark or milk chocolate bars (cut into 16 large pieces, ~1.5-inch squares each)

  • 8 large marshmallows (or 8 large Peeps marshmallows for a twist)

Professional Preparation Steps

Step 1: Oven Setup & Preheating

  1. Position the Rack: Place an oven rack 4 inches below the broiler element (lower the rack as much as possible while staying under the broiler zone for precise control—consult your oven’s manual for exact positioning).

  2. Preheat the Broiler: Set the broiler to high (550–600°F/288–316°C) and let it preheat for 5 minutes.

  3. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a heavy-duty aluminum foil-lined baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray (or use a silicone mat for easy cleanup).

Step 2: Assemble the Base Layers

  1. Arrange the Bottom Crackers: Place 8 graham crackers in a single layer on the prepared sheet, spacing them ½ inch apart to ensure even heat distribution.

  2. Add Chocolate & Marshmallows: For each of the 8 crackers, center one chocolate square (1.5-inch) and top with one large marshmallow (or Peep, if using).

Step 3: Broil to Perfection

  1. Slide & Broil: Transfer the baking sheet to the lower rack (marshmallows directly under the broiler). Broil for 1–3 minutes, checking every 30 seconds:

  2. Stop when: The marshmallows develop a golden-brown, slightly charred exterior (avoid blackening to prevent bitterness).

  3. Chocolate Check: Ensure chocolate is fully melted and glossy (no solid chunks).

  4. Critical Safety: If the marshmallows smoke or the chocolate bubbles excessively, remove immediately to prevent burning.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

  1. Top with Crackers: Using heat-resistant mitts, remove the sheet and place a remaining graham cracker on each marshmallow. Press lightly but firmly with the back of a spoon to spread the melted marshmallow and chocolate between the crackers.

  2. Serve Hot: Let cool 10–15 seconds, then enjoy the gooey, toasted s’mores immediately.

Chef’s Pro Tips (from User Feedback)

  • Toaster Oven Upgrade: Use a toaster oven for safer control—its smaller cavity reduces fire risk and allows lower rack positioning.

  • Non-Stick Foil: Spray foil with Pam before placing crackers to prevent marshmallow adhesion.

  • Peeps Twist: Swap marshmallows with Peeps for caramelized, nutty outer layers (sugar crust melts into crunch).

  • Broiler Safety: Never use the top rack—lower the rack and set a 30-second timer.

  • Timing Fix: For sensitive ovens, broil 25–30 seconds (check at 15 seconds to avoid charring).

User Reviews & Cautionary Tales

  • “House-alert fire!”: A user burned a house by using the top rack—always lower the rack and monitor constantly.

  • “Peeps = game-changer!”: Peeps’ sugar crust caramelizes into a sweet, crunchy texture when broiled.

  • “Smoosh with care”: Pressing firmly ensures even chocolate/marshmallow distribution for a cohesive bite.

Final Note: Oven s’mores are a mess-free, indoor campfire alternative—ideal for gatherings or late-night cravings! Enjoy while hot and gooey.