Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores Recipe

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If you’re searching for a cozy, nostalgic dessert that brings the magic of campfire s’mores right into your oven, look no further than Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores. This recipe masterfully layers graham crackers, chewy marshmallows, and rich chocolate, baked to golden perfection with a buttery, brown sugar-infused crumb that holds everything together in the most irresistible way. It’s comfort food elevated, perfect for sharing with friends and family any time of year—even when you can’t gather around an actual fire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet each plays a crucial role in creating the warm texture and sweet, indulgent flavor that makes Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores so special. From the crisp graham crackers to the luscious chocolate chunks and fluffy marshmallows, every element shines through.

• Unsalted butter (½ cup): Adds richness and helps bind the graham cracker crumb mixture smoothly.
• Light brown sugar (2/3 cup, packed): Brings a deep caramel sweetness that complements the marshmallows perfectly.
• 2% milk (½ cup): Softens the crumb mixture and balances the sweet flavors.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses a subtle warmth that rounds out the dessert.
• Graham cracker crumbs (1¼ cups): Creates the buttery base layer with a delightful crunch and slightly nutty flavor.
• Whole graham crackers (350 g): The essential crispy, slightly sweet canvas that layers the s’mores together.
• Milk or semisweet chocolate chips/chunks (2½ cups): Lovingly melted during baking to ooze chocolatey goodness through each bite.
• Mini marshmallows (6 cups): That iconic s’mores gooeyness that browns beautifully on top, adding chew and charm.

How to Make Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then, line an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, making sure the paper extends an inch above the edges. This will make lifting the entire s’mores slab out a breeze once it’s baked and cooled.

Step 2: Create the Gooey Crumb Mixture

On the stove, melt your butter over medium-low heat. Whisk in the brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, heating just long enough to warm the milk and dissolve the sugar. Remove from heat and whisk in the graham cracker crumbs until you get a fluid, spreadable paste that’s sweet and buttery—the base “goo” that pulls everything together.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Now for the fun part! Lay down a single layer of whole graham crackers at the bottom of your prepared pan. Spoon about one-third of your crumb concoction over the crackers; it doesn’t need to cover them completely, just enough to add moist richness. Sprinkle a third of the mini marshmallows on top, then scatter a third of the chocolate chips or chunks over the marshmallows. Repeat this layering two more times—graham crackers, goo, marshmallows, and chocolate—until all your ingredients are beautifully stacked.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Pop your layered masterpiece into the oven for 16 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the marshmallows have puffed and turned a lovely golden brown atop the layers, signaling that gooey deliciousness within.

Step 5: Cool and Portion

Once out of the oven, place the pan on a rack to cool. If you’re not serving immediately, chill the s’mores completely—it’ll firm up and make cutting clean squares much easier. These treats keep wonderfully at room temperature for up to three days, making Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores perfect for prepping ahead.

How to Serve Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores

Garnishes

For an extra touch of flair, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt over the top when the s’mores come out of the oven. The contrast enhances the chocolate and marshmallow sweetness beautifully. You can also dust with a pinch of cinnamon or add a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent twist.

Side Dishes

Pair these warm, sweet bars with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an irresistible dessert experience. Fresh berries can add a nice tart contrast that cuts through the richness, balancing each bite delightfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores on a rustic wooden board for a cozy gathering or wrapped individually in parchment paper tied with twine for a charming party favor. Cut into smaller squares for a finger-food buffet or stack them with colorful sprinkles between layers for a playful party treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover bars can be kept at room temperature, covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. They maintain their fantastic texture and flavor for up to three days, making them ideal for quick snacks or late-night cravings.

Freezing

To keep these s’mores even longer, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll preserve well for up to one month, ready to thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm up your Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 to 7 minutes or in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to revive that oozing marshmallow softness and melty chocolate allure without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk or semisweet chips?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a slightly bitter edge which pairs wonderfully with the sweet marshmallows and brown sugar, creating a more complex flavor profile. Just choose a quality chocolate you love for best results.

What if I don’t have graham cracker crumbs on hand?

You can crush whole graham crackers yourself by placing them in a sealed bag and gently pounding with a rolling pin until fine. Be sure to measure after crushing so your crumb quantity stays on track.

Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the graham crackers and crumbs with a gluten-free variety. Many brands offer delicious gluten-free graham crackers that work perfectly in this recipe without sacrificing texture or taste.

Can I prepare the s’mores layers ahead of time and bake later?

You can assemble the layers in your pan and cover it tightly, then refrigerate for a few hours before baking. This also makes it convenient to pop into the oven right before serving so the marshmallows are freshly golden.

How do I prevent marshmallows from burning?

Keep a close eye on the s’mores during the last few minutes of baking. If the marshmallows brown too quickly, loosely tent the pan with aluminum foil and continue baking until done to protect the tops while allowing the inside to cook through.

Final Thoughts

There is something utterly heartwarming about Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores that never fails to bring smiles around the table. Whether you’re reminiscing about summer campfires or simply craving a rich, comforting dessert, this recipe is your shortcut to comfort and joy. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy s’mores indoors all year long!

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