S’mores, the quintessential campfire treat, have been a staple of outdoor gatherings for generations. The classic combination of toasted marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crisp graham crackers is hard to beat, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get creative. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bonfire, planning a cozy indoor dessert night, or just craving something sweet and nostalgic, these 10 DIY s’mores variations will elevate your dessert game. From tropical twists to savory surprises, each variation is designed to be approachable, fun, and delicious. Let’s dive into these inventive takes on the beloved s’mores!
1. Peanut Butter Cup S’mores
Peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in heaven, and this variation swaps out the traditional chocolate bar for a creamy peanut butter cup. The nutty richness pairs perfectly with the gooey marshmallow and crunchy graham cracker.
Ingredients (per s’more):
- 2 graham cracker squares
- 1 large marshmallow
- 1 peanut butter cup (e.g., Reese’s)
- Optional: A thin spread of peanut butter
Instructions:
- Toast your marshmallow over a fire or under a broiler until golden and melty.
- Place the peanut butter cup on one graham cracker square. If using extra peanut butter, spread a thin layer on the other square.
- Sandwich the toasted marshmallow between the peanut butter cup and the second graham cracker.
- Press gently and let the warmth of the marshmallow slightly melt the peanut butter cup. Enjoy immediately!
Why It Works: The salty-sweet peanut butter cup adds depth to the s’more, making it feel indulgent without being overly complicated. This is a crowd-pleaser for peanut butter lovers.
2. Tropical Coconut S’mores
Transport your taste buds to a beachside paradise with this tropical-inspired s’more. Coconut and white chocolate bring a summery vibe, while a hint of pineapple adds a refreshing twist.
Ingredients (per s’more):
- 2 graham cracker squares
- 1 large marshmallow
- 1 square of white chocolate
- 1 tablespoon shredded sweetened coconut
- 1 thin slice of dried pineapple (or a small piece of fresh pineapple)
Instructions:
- Toast the marshmallow to your desired level of doneness.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut on one graham cracker and place the white chocolate square on top.
- Add the toasted marshmallow and top with a slice of dried or fresh pineapple.
- Sandwich with the second graham cracker and enjoy the tropical flavors.
Why It Works: The creamy white chocolate and nutty coconut complement the sweet-tart pineapple, creating a s’more that feels like a mini vacation in every bite.
3. Salted Caramel S’mores
For those who love the sweet-salty combo, this salted caramel s’more is a game-changer. The caramel adds a buttery richness, while a pinch of sea salt elevates the entire experience.
Ingredients (per s’more):
- 2 graham cracker squares
- 1 large marshmallow
- 1 square of milk chocolate
- 1 teaspoon caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Pinch of flaky sea salt
Instructions:
- Toast the marshmallow until golden and gooey.
- Spread a thin layer of caramel sauce on one graham cracker, then sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
- Place the milk chocolate square on the other graham cracker and top with the toasted marshmallow.
- Sandwich the two halves together, letting the caramel and chocolate meld. Serve immediately.
Why It Works: The caramel adds a luxurious texture, and the sea salt cuts through the sweetness, making this s’more feel sophisticated yet approachable.
4. Cookies and Cream S’mores
Inspired by the iconic cookies and cream flavor, this variation swaps graham crackers for chocolate sandwich cookies and adds a white chocolate twist for extra decadence.
Ingredients (per s’more):
- 2 chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos)
- 1 large marshmallow
- 1 square of white chocolate
Instructions:
- Carefully twist apart the sandwich cookies to use the halves as your “crackers.”
- Toast the marshmallow until soft and golden.
- Place the white chocolate square on one cookie half and the toasted marshmallow on another.
- Sandwich the cookies together, pressing gently to combine the flavors.
Why It Works: The chocolatey cookies add a richer base than graham crackers, and the white chocolate creates a creamy contrast that mimics the classic cookies-and-cream vibe.
5. Bacon and Dark Chocolate S’mores
For the adventurous foodie, this savory-sweet s’more combines smoky bacon with bittersweet dark chocolate. It’s an unexpected pairing that’s sure to spark conversation.
Ingredients (per s’more):
- 2 graham cracker squares
- 1 large marshmallow
- 1 square of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
- 1 strip of crispy cooked bacon, broken into small pieces
Instructions:
- Toast the marshmallow until golden and melty.
- Place the dark chocolate square on one graham cracker and sprinkle bacon pieces over it.
- Add the toasted marshmallow and sandwich with the second graham cracker.
- Press gently and enjoy the smoky-sweet contrast.
Why It Works: The bacon’s saltiness and crunch balance the intense dark chocolate, creating a bold, unforgettable s’more that’s perfect for adventurous palates.
6. Strawberry Nutella S’mores
Fresh strawberries and creamy Nutella bring a fruity, hazelnutty twist to the classic s’more. This variation feels like a dessert straight out of a patisserie.
Ingredients (per s’more):
- 2 graham cracker squares
- 1 large marshmallow
- 1 teaspoon Nutella
- 2-3 thin slices of fresh strawberry
Instructions:
- Toast the marshmallow until soft and golden.
- Spread Nutella on one graham cracker and arrange strawberry slices on top.
- Place the toasted marshmallow on the other graham cracker.
- Sandwich the two halves together and enjoy the fruity-chocolatey goodness.
Why It Works: The strawberries add a burst of freshness, while Nutella’s hazelnut-chocolate spread makes this s’more feel indulgent yet light.
7. S’mores with Homemade Lemon Curd
Bright and tangy lemon curd adds a zesty twist to the traditional s’more, cutting through the sweetness for a perfectly balanced treat.
Ingredients (per s’more):
- 2 graham cracker squares
- 1 large marshmallow
- 1 square of white chocolate
- 1 teaspoon lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Toast the marshmallow until golden and gooey.
- Spread lemon curd on one graham cracker and place the white chocolate square on top.
- Add the toasted marshmallow and sandwich with the second graham cracker.
- Press gently and enjoy the citrusy kick.
Why It Works: The tart lemon curd contrasts beautifully with the sweet marshmallow and creamy white chocolate, making this s’more feel refreshing and unique.
8. Mexican Hot Chocolate S’mores
Inspired by the flavors of Mexican hot chocolate, this s’more incorporates cinnamon and a touch of chili powder for a warm, spicy twist.
Ingredients (per s’more):
- 2 cinnamon graham cracker squares
- 1 large marshmallow
- 1 square of milk chocolate
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
- Pinch of chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions:
- Toast the marshmallow until golden and melty.
- Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon (and chili powder, if using) on one graham cracker, then place the milk chocolate square on top.
- Add the toasted marshmallow and sandwich with the second graham cracker.
- Press gently and savor the warm, spicy flavors.
Why It Works: The cinnamon and optional chili powder add warmth and complexity, making this s’more a cozy, fireside favorite.
9. Almond Joy S’mores
Inspired by the classic candy bar, this s’more combines coconut, almonds, and milk chocolate for a nutty, tropical treat.
Ingredients (per s’more):
- 2 graham cracker squares
- 1 large marshmallow
- 1 square of milk chocolate
- 1 tablespoon shredded sweetened coconut
- 1-2 whole roasted almonds
Instructions:
- Toast the marshmallow until soft and golden.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut on one graham cracker and place the milk chocolate square on top.
- Add the toasted marshmallow and place 1-2 almonds on top.
- Sandwich with the second graham cracker and enjoy.
Why It Works: The coconut and almonds add texture and flavor, making this s’more feel like a candy bar in s’more form.
10. Matcha Green Tea S’mores
For a modern, slightly earthy twist, this matcha green tea s’more pairs white chocolate with a hint of matcha powder for a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients (per s’more):
- 2 graham cracker squares
- 1 large marshmallow
- 1 square of white chocolate
- 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
Instructions:
- Toast the marshmallow until golden and gooey.
- Sprinkle matcha powder lightly over one graham cracker, then place the white chocolate square on top.
- Add the toasted marshmallow and sandwich with the second graham cracker.
- Press gently and enjoy the subtle, earthy flavor.
Why It Works: The matcha adds a sophisticated, slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness of the marshmallow and white chocolate, appealing to adventurous dessert lovers.
Tips for Perfect S’mores Every Time
- Toasting Marshmallows: For even toasting, rotate the marshmallow slowly over a low flame or use a kitchen torch for indoor s’mores. If using a broiler, watch closely to avoid burning.
- Indoor Option: No campfire? Use a stovetop burner, broiler, or microwave to toast marshmallows. For microwaves, heat for 10-15 seconds until puffed up.
- Make Ahead: Prep ingredients in advance for easy assembly at gatherings. Store graham crackers, chocolate, and add-ins in airtight containers.
- Customization: Encourage guests to mix and match variations or create their own by setting up a s’mores bar with various toppings and spreads.
Why S’mores Variations Are Worth Trying
These DIY s’mores variations take a timeless treat and infuse it with creativity, making them perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re catering to a crowd with diverse tastes or just experimenting in your kitchen, these recipes offer something for everyone. From the decadent salted caramel to the refreshing lemon curd, each variation adds a new layer of flavor while preserving the nostalgic charm of s’mores. So, gather your ingredients, light a fire (or a candle), and start exploring these delicious twists on a classic dessert.
