These S’mores Brownies are a delicious twist on a classic treat! With rich, fudgy brownies topped with gooey vanilla bean marshmallow, they are hard to resist.
The best part? The crunchy graham cracker layer adds the perfect crunch! I sometimes pretend to share, but I usually keep the pan for myself. Who can blame me? 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These are essential for the crust’s texture. If you don’t have them, crushed digestive biscuits or even shortbread cookies can be a good substitute.
Unsalted Butter: This is used in both the crust and brownie layers. If you need a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives the brownies their chocolate flavor. Dutch-process cocoa can also work here, giving a richer taste. If you’re a chocolate lover, consider adding some chocolate chips for an extra boost!
Egg Whites: For the marshmallow topping, egg whites are crucial for that fluffy texture. If you’re avoiding eggs, you might try aquafaba (chickpea water) as a replacement at a 3:1 ratio.
Vanilla Bean Paste: This adds a lovely flavor to the marshmallow. If you don’t have it, pure vanilla extract works fine, but the specks of vanilla bean pods will be missed!
How Do You Achieve a Fluffy Marshmallow Topping?
The marshmallow topping can be tricky, but with some key steps, it can be fluffy and light. The process involves heating egg whites and sugar while whisking to dissolve the sugar before whipping them up.
- Set up a double boiler by placing your bowl over simmering water. This gentle heat helps dissolve the sugar without cooking the eggs.
- Whisk constantly for about 3-4 minutes until warm. The mixture should feel smooth and not gritty.
- Once the sugar is dissolved, remove from heat and beat on high until soft peaks form. This can take around 3-5 minutes.
- When adding vanilla bean paste, do so after forming soft peaks for good incorporation.
By keeping a close watch and whisking, you’ll have a deliciously fluffy topping ready for those brownies!
How to Make S’mores Brownies With Vanilla Bean Marshmallow?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Vanilla Bean Marshmallow Topping:
- 3 large egg whites
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or seeds from 1 vanilla bean)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to bake, plus additional time for cooling. In total, you should allocate about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete your delicious S’mores Brownies.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until everything is well combined. Then, press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, until it is slightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
2. Making the Brownie Layer:
While the crust cools, let’s make the brownie layer! In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1/2 cup of butter. Once melted, take it off the heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until it is smooth and well blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Pour the brownie batter over the cooled crust and spread it out evenly.
3. Baking the Brownies:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the brownies in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. To test if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan.
4. Preparing the Marshmallow Topping:
Next, we will prepare the vanilla bean marshmallow topping. In a large heatproof bowl, combine the egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar. Put the bowl over a pot of simmering water (this is called a double boiler) and whisk constantly until the mixture feels warm to the touch and the sugar dissolves, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once warmed, take it off the heat and beat it with a hand mixer on high until soft peaks form and the mixture is glossy. Finally, mix in the vanilla bean paste for that delicious flavor!
5. Assembling the Brownies:
Spread the prepared vanilla bean marshmallow mixture evenly over your cooled brownies. Use a spatula to create swirls or peaks on top for a fun texture!
6. Toasting the Marshmallow Topping:
To give your marshmallow topping that toasty finish, gently use a kitchen torch to toast it until golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, you can pop the brownies under the broiler for a minute or two. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Cool and Serve:
Finally, let the brownies cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cut them into squares. Now you’re ready to enjoy your scrumptious S’mores Brownies!
Can I Use Different Types of Flour for the Brownie Layer?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with other types like whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. If using gluten-free flour, make sure it includes a binding agent. Just remember that variations might alter the texture slightly, but they can still be delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Egg Whites in the Marshmallow Topping?
If you need an egg-free option, you can use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas)! Use about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba to replace each egg white. Whip it until stiff peaks form, and follow the rest of the marshmallow topping instructions as usual.
How Should I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing!
Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free graham cracker substitute for the crust and swap the all-purpose flour in the brownie layer with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, you can enjoy these S’mores Brownies without the gluten!
