S'mores Crack Caramel Dessert

This indulgent S'mores Crack delivers all the nostalgic flavors of a campfire treat without the mess or hassle. The gooey caramel base combined with chocolate and perfectly toasted marshmallows creates an irresistible dessert that disappears within minutes at any gathering.

I first made this for my niece's birthday party when rain ruined our backyard s'mores plans. It was such a hit that it's now requested at every family function, regardless of the weather.

Ingredients

• Graham crackers: Full sheets provide the perfect crispy base and that classic s'mores flavor. Look for fresh crackers without any signs of softening.
• Salted butter: Adds richness and helps cut through the sweetness. The salt creates that perfect sweet-savory balance.
• Light brown sugar: Packed creates the caramel layer that holds everything together. The molasses content gives a deeper flavor than white sugar would.
• Chocolate bars: Broken into pieces melt perfectly over the hot base. Choose high-quality chocolate for the best results.
• Mini marshmallows: Toast beautifully under the broiler. Their smaller size ensures even melting and that perfect golden color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9x13 baking pan with parchment paper, allowing extra paper to hang over the edges for easy removal later. Arrange graham crackers in a single layer covering the entire bottom of the pan. You may need to break some crackers to ensure complete coverage with no gaps.

Create the Caramel:

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the butter and brown sugar. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula until the butter completely melts. Continue cooking and stirring as the mixture comes to a boil. Let it bubble for exactly 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken and turns a deeper caramel color. Keep stirring throughout to prevent burning.

Bake the Base:

Pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the graham cracker layer, trying to cover all crackers. Use a spatula to spread if needed. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 6-8 minutes until the caramel is bubbling all over and the crackers begin to soften.

Add Toppings:

Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the broken chocolate pieces evenly across the hot caramel layer. Wait about 1 minute to allow the chocolate to soften before gently spreading it with a spatula if needed. Distribute the mini marshmallows evenly over the melted chocolate layer.

Broil for the Perfect Finish:

Switch your oven setting to broil. Place the pan back in the oven on a middle rack and watch constantly as the marshmallows begin to puff and turn golden brown. This happens extremely quickly, usually in 1-2 minutes depending on your broiler. Do not walk away or they will burn.

Cool and Serve:

Remove from the oven and allow to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes before cutting into squares or rectangles. Serve at room temperature for the perfect texture.

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The most magical moment of making this dessert is watching the marshmallows toast under the broiler. It brings back memories of summer camp when my dad would help us toast marshmallows to the perfect golden brown. That nostalgic scent fills the kitchen and always draws everyone in from other rooms asking what smells so amazing.

Storage Tips

These bars stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place parchment or wax paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, though the graham crackers will gradually soften. I find they actually taste wonderful straight from the refrigerator, especially in summer months when a cool treat is welcome.

Flavor Variations

Create a peanut butter lover's version by adding a layer of peanut butter between the caramel and chocolate. Simply spread 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter over the hot caramel before adding chocolate pieces. For mint chocolate fans, substitute chocolate mint candies for regular chocolate bars. During holiday season, try using cinnamon graham crackers and adding a sprinkle of nutmeg to the caramel mixture for a festive twist that pairs perfectly with hot cocoa.

Serving Suggestions

While these bars are delicious on their own, they truly shine when served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm, gooey bars and cold ice cream creates a delightful temperature play. For an elegant dessert board, cut into small squares and arrange with fresh berries, chocolate dipped strawberries, and brownie bites. These also make wonderful gifts when packaged in decorative tins with a handwritten recipe card.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why is this dessert called S'mores Crack?

The term 'crack' in this dessert name refers to its extremely addictive nature and the way the caramelized sugar creates a slightly crackable texture when cooled. Combined with the classic s'mores flavors of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows, it becomes virtually impossible to stop eating!

→ Can I use chocolate chips instead of chocolate bars?

Yes, chocolate chips work well as a substitute for chocolate bars. Use about 1 to 1½ cups of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips instead of the 3 chocolate bars. They'll melt slightly differently but provide the same delicious chocolate layer.

→ How should I store leftover S'mores Crack bars?

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, though the texture may change slightly.

→ Can I make this dessert without a broiler?

If you don't have a broiler, you can still toast the marshmallows by placing the pan on the top rack of your oven at its highest baking temperature. Alternatively, you could use a kitchen torch to brown the marshmallows for that toasted finish.

→ Why did my caramel mixture crystallize or separate?

Caramel can crystallize if sugar crystals form during the cooking process. To prevent this, avoid stirring too vigorously after the initial melting, use a clean saucepan, and ensure your heat isn't too high. If the butter separates, continue stirring gently until it reincorporates before pouring over the graham crackers.

→ Can I make S'mores Crack ahead of time for a party?

Yes! This dessert is perfect for making 1-2 days ahead. Prepare it completely, allow it to cool fully, then cut into squares and store in an airtight container at room temperature. The flavors actually meld together nicely over time.