S’mores have long been a beloved treat for many. The combination of gooey marshmallow, melty chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers has made this simple campfire snack a classic. However, while the traditional method of roasting s’mores over an open flame is fun and nostalgic, there’s a twist on this timeless dessert that’s even easier to prepare and just as delicious: S’mores Cookie Cups. These little bites of heaven take the flavors of the beloved s’mores and bake them into individual cookie cups, making them perfect for any occasion, whether you’re gathered around a campfire or hosting a party. Here’s everything you need to know about creating these sweet, sticky, and irresistible cookie cups!
What Are S’mores Cookie Cups?
S’mores Cookie Cups are essentially a miniaturized, oven-baked version of the classic s’mores, served in a convenient, bite-sized cup. Instead of skewering marshmallows and chocolate to melt over an open fire, you bake the components of s’mores inside a cookie dough crust that forms a little cup. The base of the cookie cup is made from graham cracker-flavored dough, and it’s filled with a gooey marshmallow center and topped with a piece of rich chocolate. Once baked, the result is a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients Needed
To make s’mores cookie cups, you don’t need any special ingredients—just the staples you likely already have in your kitchen! Here’s a list of everything you’ll need:
For the Cookie Cups:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs – These give the cookie cups that authentic graham cracker flavor that is quintessential to s’mores.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – The flour helps give structure to the dough and makes the cups sturdy.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Butter provides the necessary fat for a soft, chewy cookie.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Brown sugar adds a caramel-like depth of flavor and moisture.
- 1 egg – Acts as a binding agent for the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For a touch of warmth and sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – To help the dough rise slightly.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – To balance the sweetness and bring out the other flavors.
For the Filling:
- Mini marshmallows – These create the gooey marshmallow center that is the star of the s’mores experience.
- Chocolate bars (milk, dark, or semi-sweet, depending on your preference) – Chopped into pieces or used as squares, chocolate is the other essential ingredient for s’mores.
Optional Toppings:
- Graham cracker crumbs – To sprinkle over the top of the cookie cups for an extra graham cracker crunch.
- Mini chocolate chips – These are fun to add for extra chocolatey goodness.
Equipment Needed
- Muffin tin – This will be used to create the cookie cups, so be sure to have a standard-sized muffin tin.
- Non-stick spray or cupcake liners – To make sure the cookie cups don’t stick to the tin, spray it lightly with non-stick spray or use liners.
- Mixing bowls – To prepare the dough and filling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
Instructions: How to Make S’mores Cookie Cups
Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to get baking! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make these delectable cookie cups:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that it’s hot and ready when your cookie dough is ready to go in the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or line each cup with cupcake liners. This step will make it much easier to remove the cookie cups after they’ve baked.
Step 3: Make the Cookie Dough
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the graham cracker crumbs, flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer or by hand. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Form the Cookie Cups
Take about 1-2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Place each ball into a muffin tin cup, and then use your fingers or the back of a spoon to gently press the dough down and up the sides, forming a little “cup” shape. Make sure the edges of the dough are higher than the center to allow room for the marshmallow and chocolate filling.
Step 5: Bake the Cookie Cups
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookie edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly underdone, but that’s okay – they’ll firm up as they cool.
Step 6: Add the Filling
Once the cookie cups have baked, remove them from the oven and immediately press 3-4 mini marshmallows into the center of each cookie cup. Be careful, as they will be hot! Then, place a piece of chocolate on top of the marshmallows. You can use a chunk of chocolate bar or sprinkle mini chocolate chips.
Step 7: Return to the Oven
Put the muffin tin back into the oven for another 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows are softened and the chocolate is melty.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the s’mores cookie cups cool in the tin for 5-10 minutes before carefully removing them. You can run a knife along the edges of the muffin cups if needed to loosen the cookies. Allow them to cool slightly before serving, but not too long—you want the marshmallows to still be gooey!
Step 9: Optional Garnishes
If you like, you can sprinkle a few graham cracker crumbs on top of the warm cookie cups for extra crunch, or even drizzle with extra melted chocolate for a decadent finish.
Why You’ll Love S’mores Cookie Cups
S’mores Cookie Cups are the perfect blend of nostalgia and convenience. Here’s why they’re such a hit:
- No campfire required: Whether you’re baking indoors on a rainy day or hosting a s’mores-themed party, you don’t need an outdoor fire to enjoy this treat.
- Perfect portion size: Each cookie cup is a bite-sized delight, so you can enjoy a little taste of s’mores without overindulging.
- Easy to customize: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate (e.g., milk, dark, or white chocolate) or add a sprinkle of sea salt for a salty-sweet twist.
- Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a summer party, a birthday celebration, or just a regular weeknight treat, these cookie cups are sure to impress family and friends.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overbake: The cookie cups will continue cooking after they’re removed from the oven, so don’t overbake them. They should still be soft in the center.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it into balls.
- For an extra twist: Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough or using peanut butter cups instead of regular chocolate for a unique flavor combination.
Conclusion
S’mores Cookie Cups bring all the fun and flavor of the classic s’mores into an easy-to-make, portable, and incredibly satisfying dessert. They’re the perfect way to enjoy the taste of campfire s’mores any time of year, and their gooey, melty, crunchy texture is bound to make them a favorite in your dessert rotation. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a sweet treat that will leave everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re baking with kids, hosting a summer party, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these s’mores cookie cups are sure to become a new favorite.