Fudgy S’mores Brownies Made from Scratch

S’mores Brownies from scratch are pure indulgence for anyone who loves chocolate and gooey treats. These bars combine a crunchy graham cracker crust with a thick, fudgy chocolate brownie studded with chopped peanut butter cups. A scattering of peanut butter chips and a final blanket of toasted mini marshmallows turn this dessert into a rich, nostalgic twist on the classic campfire s’more.

This recipe is a mashup of family favorites—s’mores, brownies, and peanut butter cups—so it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dessert any time of year, these layered s’mores brownies are simple to make and endlessly satisfying.

What are s’mores brownies?

S’mores brownies are a layered dessert featuring a pressed graham cracker crust, a dense, fudgy brownie layer mixed with peanut butter cup pieces, and a topping of peanut butter chips and toasted mini marshmallows. They capture the flavors of traditional s’mores in a convenient, sliceable brownie form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Graham Cracker Crust Layer:

• Crushed graham cracker crumbs – forms the crunchy crust.
• Granulated sugar – adds sweetness to the crust and brownie layers.
• Butter – melted to bind the crust and provide richness.

Brownies:

• All-purpose flour – for structure.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – for deep chocolate flavor.
• Baking powder – for a slight lift.
• Butter – softened, for moisture and richness.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the batter.
• Milk – makes the brownies tender and moist.
• Vanilla extract – enhances flavor.
• Eggs – bind and provide structure.
• Peanut butter cups – chopped and folded into the batter for peanut-buttery pockets.
• Peanut butter chips – sprinkled on top for extra flavor and texture.
• Mini marshmallows – toasted under the broiler for the classic s’mores finish.

How do you make S’mores Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup finely crushed graham cracker crumbs, ½ cup granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons melted butter. Mix well, press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust, and set aside.

Step 3: Whisk together 1½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup sifted unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon baking powder in a bowl; set aside.

Step 4: In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter and 2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add ¼ cup milk and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, mixing to combine. Add 3 eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups.

Step 6: Spread the brownie batter evenly over the graham cracker crust. Bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.

Step 7: Remove the pan from the oven and switch the oven to broil. Evenly sprinkle 1 cup peanut butter chips over the hot brownies, then top with a 10-ounce bag of mini marshmallows.

Step 8: Place the pan under the broiler and toast for 1–2 minutes, watching closely so the marshmallows become golden but don’t burn. Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing into 12 bars.

What is the secret to moist brownies?

What makes brownies fudgy vs. cakey?

Fudgy brownies contain more fat (butter and sometimes chocolate) and less flour, while cakey brownies use more flour and leavening like baking powder to create a lighter texture.

Can I use a boxed brownie mix?

Yes. You can substitute a boxed brownie mix—follow the package instructions, and swap milk for water when possible to improve moisture and richness.

Tips for the Best Chocolate S’mores Brownies

• Use quality ingredients—good cocoa, butter, and milk make a difference.
• Beat butter and sugar well for a lighter texture.
• Sift dry ingredients to avoid lumps.
• Watch baking times closely so the crust and brownies don’t under- or over-bake.
• Toast marshmallows carefully under the broiler—check at about one minute.
• Let the brownies cool before cutting for cleaner slices.

How to cleanly cut brownies

Allow the bars to cool slightly. Use a plastic or nonstick-coated knife pressed straight down for each cut; wipe or rinse the blade between cuts to keep slices neat.

How to store

Store these s’mores brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 4–6 days.

Can you freeze brownie s’mores?

Yes. Freeze in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to three months. Note that the graham crust may soften slightly after thawing, which is fine for most preferences.

Recipe Summary