Gooey S’mores Cookie Bites

S’mores Cookie Cups are delightful, bite-sized treats that encapsulate all the beloved flavors of traditional s’mores in a convenient, mess-free format. This incredibly simple recipe allows you to whip up these mini s’mores bites with **just 5 essential ingredients**, making them an effortless dessert that everyone will adore. Forget the campfire and sticky fingers; these cookie cups bring the magic of s’mores right into your kitchen, anytime, anywhere.

There’s an undeniable charm to classic s’mores, with their perfectly toasted marshmallows, gooey melted chocolate, and crisp graham crackers, traditionally made over an open fire. However, the reality is that weather conditions, time constraints, or simply a lack of outdoor space often prevent us from enjoying this classic treat the authentic way. But what if you could capture that irresistible combination of flavors and textures in an easy, oven-baked dessert?

That’s where **S’mores Cookie Cups** come in! This recipe offers the ultimate solution for satisfying your s’mores cravings without the need for a roaring fire. It’s a quick, simple, and incredibly delicious way to bring the joy of s’mores to your dessert table, making it an ideal choice for any occasion, from impromptu family gatherings to sophisticated parties.

Over the years, our family has enjoyed experimenting with various s’mores-inspired desserts, always seeking innovative ways to enjoy these beloved flavors. We’ve previously shared popular recipes like our Golden Graham Smores Bars and the ever-popular S’mores Cones. These S’mores Cookie Cups are a fantastic addition to that collection, proving that the classic combination of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows can be reinterpreted in countless delightful ways.

Why This Recipe Works: The Perfect S’mores Solution

These miniature s’mores cups are not just adorable; they’re incredibly practical and universally loved. Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for little hands, and kids especially enjoy being able to grab a couple without feeling overwhelmed by a larger dessert. Each cup delivers a perfectly balanced symphony of flavors and textures: the buttery crunch of the graham cracker crust, the sweet, gooey melt of toasted marshmallow, and the rich, satisfying snap of milk chocolate. They are truly decadent and utterly amazing!

Beyond their irresistible taste, the simplicity of this recipe is a major selling point. Requiring only five basic ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookie cups are perfect for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or when you simply need a quick dessert fix. The ability to create the iconic s’mores experience indoors, regardless of the weather, makes this recipe a game-changer for any dessert lover. It eliminates the hassle of building a fire and ensures consistent, perfectly toasted marshmallows every time thanks to your oven broiler. If you’re looking for a fuss-free treat that embodies the spirit of s’mores, this recipe is your go-to.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best aspects of these S’mores Cookie Cups is the minimal ingredient list. You likely have most of these staples in your pantry already! Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and some tips for each:

• Graham Cracker Crumbs: The foundation of our cookie cups! You can buy pre-crushed graham cracker crumbs for ultimate convenience, or simply crush whole graham cracker sheets yourself using a food processor or a Ziploc bag and a rolling pin. For a slightly different twist, some bakers enjoy using a simple shortbread cookie dough as the base.
• Butter: Essential for binding the graham cracker crust and adding richness. Always opt for real butter for the best flavor and texture in your baked goods. Melted butter will ensure your crust comes together perfectly.
• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this fine sugar helps sweeten the crust without adding a grainy texture. It dissolves smoothly into the butter and graham cracker mixture.
• Mini Marshmallows: The smaller size is crucial for these bite-sized treats. Mini marshmallows melt beautifully and fit perfectly into the muffin cups, creating that signature gooey s’mores center. While regular marshmallows can be cut, mini ones save time and ensure even melting.
• Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars: The classic choice for s’mores! Hershey’s milk chocolate bars melt into a wonderfully creamy layer atop the toasted marshmallows. Don’t feel limited, though; this is a great opportunity to experiment with different types of chocolate. Think dark chocolate for a richer flavor, chocolate with almonds for added crunch, or even cookies and cream bars for a playful twist.

You can find the precise measurements and complete ingredient list for this delightful recipe in the dedicated recipe card below, ensuring you have everything you need for baking success.

How to Make S’mores Cookie Cups: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these irresistible S’mores Cookie Cups is a straightforward process, broken down into simple steps:

• Step 1: Prepare Your Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is at the optimal temperature for baking the graham cracker crust, leading to a perfectly crisp base.

Step 2: Combine the Crust Ingredients. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and the melted butter. Stir these ingredients together thoroughly until the mixture is evenly moistened and resembles wet sand. This forms the delicious and sturdy base for your cookie cups.

Step 3: Prepare the Mini Muffin Tin. Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin pan with a non-stick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents the cookie cups from sticking and makes for easy removal later. Distribute the graham cracker crust mixture evenly among the 24 cups. Using a small spoon or your fingertips, carefully press the crumbs firmly into the bottom of each cup and slightly up the sides to form a small cup or well. This will create a perfect cavity for your marshmallow and chocolate filling.

Step 4: Bake the Crusts & Add Marshmallows. Place the mini muffin pan with the graham cracker crusts into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 4 minutes, or until the edges appear lightly golden brown and the crust is set. Remove the pan from the oven. While the crusts are still warm, carefully place 2 to 3 mini marshmallows into each baked graham cracker cup. Arrange them neatly to fill the cup.

Step 5: Broil for Toasted Marshmallows & Add Chocolate. Switch your oven setting to broil (or high broiler). Carefully place the muffin pan back into the oven, making sure it’s on a rack that is not too close to the broiler element. Broil for just 1 to 2 minutes, watching very closely. The marshmallows will toast and become soft and gooey incredibly fast, so do not leave them unattended to prevent burning. Once the marshmallows are perfectly golden and soft, immediately remove the pan from the oven. Quickly top each toasted marshmallow with one piece of a Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar. The residual heat will gently melt the chocolate, creating that iconic s’mores layer.

Allow the S’mores Cookie Cups to cool completely in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This cooling period is essential as it allows the chocolate to set slightly and the crust to firm up. Once cooled, use a small butter knife or an offset spatula to gently loosen the edges and lift each cookie cup from the pan. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Instructions for Freshness

To keep your S’mores Cookie Cups fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh and delightful for up to 2-3 days.

For a warm, gooey treat, you can easily reheat them. Place the cookie cups on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds, or until the marshmallow and chocolate are softened to your liking. Be careful not to overheat, as the marshmallow can become tough.

These versatile cookie cups are also freezer-friendly! Arrange cooled s’mores cookie cups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They will maintain their quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply take them out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour, or warm them gently in the microwave or a low oven until heated through.

Pro Tips for Perfect S’mores Cookie Cups

Achieving bakery-quality S’mores Cookie Cups is easier than you think with these expert tips:

• Invest in a Mini Muffin Pan: The success of these bite-sized treats hinges on using the right equipment. A 24-cup mini muffin pan is the perfect size, creating individual portions that are ideal for parties, lunchboxes, or a quick snack. My personal favorite is a durable Wilton mini muffin pan, but any brand you already own or prefer will work wonderfully.
• Finely Ground Graham Cracker Crust: For the best crust texture, it’s helpful to get your graham crackers as fine as possible. A food processor is your best friend here, quickly pulverizing the crackers into uniform crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, a heavy-duty Ziploc bag and a rolling pin work just as well. Simply place the graham cracker sheets in the bag, seal it, and roll over them until they are finely crushed.
• Watch Marshmallows Like a Hawk: The broiler works incredibly fast! Marshmallows can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in mere seconds. Stay by the oven and keep a close eye on them. The moment they turn golden brown and puffy, remove them immediately.
• Marshmallow Size Matters: While mini marshmallows are recommended for their ideal fit and quick melt, you can certainly adapt if you only have regular-sized marshmallows. Simply cut larger marshmallows into quarters or smaller pieces to fit inside the graham cracker cups. Alternatively, for a truly unique experience, you can even use homemade marshmallow fluff for an extra gooey texture.
• Effortless Removal from the Pan: To ensure your S’mores Cookie Cups come out perfectly intact, patience is key. Allow them to cool completely in the muffin pan. Once cooled, use a thin butter knife or an offset spatula to gently slide around the edges of each graham cracker crust. This helps loosen them from the pan, allowing you to lift them out without breakage. If they seem stuck, a quick chill in the refrigerator can sometimes help them firm up for easier removal.

Creative Chocolate Alternatives

While the classic Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar is synonymous with s’mores, don’t hesitate to get creative with your chocolate choice! Many delicious alternatives can elevate your S’mores Cookie Cups to new heights, offering diverse flavor profiles and textures:

• Mini Peanut Butter Cups: For a delightful chocolate-peanut butter fusion, place a mini peanut butter cup on top of each toasted marshmallow.
• Hershey’s Kisses: These iconic chocolate drops are perfect for melting and add a charming touch.
• Rollo’s: The caramel-filled chocolates melt beautifully, adding a rich, chewy caramel layer.
• Dark Chocolate: If you prefer a less sweet, more intense chocolate flavor, opt for dark chocolate squares or chips.
• Mini Snicker Bars: Chop up mini Snickers bars for an indulgent mix of chocolate, caramel, nougat, and peanuts.
• Chocolate Chips: A handful of chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark) will melt into a lovely puddle.
• Hot Fudge Syrup or Caramel Syrup: For a decadent drizzle, add a small dollop of hot fudge or caramel syrup after the marshmallows are toasted.
• Ganache: A homemade chocolate ganache can be drizzled over the top for a smooth, rich finish.

Experiment with different chocolates to find your favorite combination!

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

S’mores Cookie Cups are incredibly versatile and perfect for a wide array of occasions. Their individual portion size makes them a fantastic choice for gatherings where guests can easily grab a treat. Serve them warm for the ultimate gooey experience, or at room temperature for a more structured bite. They make an excellent addition to dessert platters for birthday parties, potlucks, cookouts, or game day celebrations. For a festive touch, you can garnish them with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, a tiny dusting of cocoa powder, or even some crushed peppermint during the holidays. Offer them alongside a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for a truly comforting treat. These cookie cups are so universally appealing that they’re guaranteed to be a hit no matter the event!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making S’mores Cookie Cups:

• Can I make these cookie cups ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the graham cracker crusts a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. When ready to serve, add the marshmallows and chocolate, then broil and cool.
• How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning under the broiler? The key is constant vigilance! Stay right by the oven and watch them carefully. The moment they puff up and turn golden, pull them out. Broilers vary, so cooking times can differ.
• Can I use a regular-sized muffin tin? While a mini muffin tin is recommended for bite-sized treats, you can use a regular muffin tin. You’ll need to adjust the amount of crust mixture, marshmallows, and chocolate accordingly, and the baking time for the crust may be slightly longer. The yield will also be fewer cups.
• Are there any gluten-free options for the crust? Absolutely! You can use gluten-free graham crackers or a similar gluten-free cookie for the crust. Ensure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free if catering to specific dietary needs.
• What if my chocolate doesn’t melt completely? If your chocolate pieces don’t fully melt from the residual heat of the marshmallows, you can gently place the pan back into the still-warm (but turned off) oven for a minute or two, or briefly microwave a few cups at a time.

More Easy S’mores Recipes to Love

If you can’t get enough of that delightful s’mores flavor, we’ve got you covered! Explore these other easy and innovative s’mores-inspired recipes:

• Easy S’mores Cake Recipe
• S’mores Dip
• S’mores Bars Recipe
• Easy to Grill S’mores Recipe
• S’mores Cones

Explore More Easy Chocolate Recipes

For all the chocolate lovers out there, here are some more simple and delicious chocolate-focused dessert recipes you might enjoy:

• Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls Recipe
• White Chocolate Peppermint Brownies Recipe
• 4 Ingredient Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
• Caramel Chocolate Microwave Fudge

We encourage you to try making these fantastic S’mores Cookie Cups for your next celebration or just a sweet treat at home! From holidays to birthday parties, cookouts, and game day, these s’mores cups are perfectly suited for just about any occasion. Once you’ve created your batch of these delightful mini desserts, we’d love for you to leave a comment and share your star rating!