Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could capture the magic of a campfire treat without leaving the comfort of your kitchen, then Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores is the answer you’ve been dreaming of. This delightful dessert takes the nostalgic flavors of graham crackers, molten chocolate, and toasty marshmallows and transforms them into a rich, gooey, layered square that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. The beauty lies in its simplicity, yet every bite delivers a perfect balance of crunchy, creamy, and sweet that will make you feel like a kid at heart again.

Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this irresistible treat, you don’t need a pantry full of complicated ingredients. Each essential component plays a crucial role, from the buttery graham cracker base to the melty chocolate and fluffy marshmallows that crown the dessert.

  • Unsalted butter (½ cup): Adds richness and helps bind the graham cracker crumbs into a perfect crumbly base.
  • Packed light brown sugar (2/3 cup): Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
  • 2% milk (½ cup): Lightens and loosens the mixture for a creamy texture without being heavy.
  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, inviting aroma and rounds out the sweetness.
  • Graham cracker crumbs (1¼ cups): The foundation that gives the s’mores their classic crunch and structure.
  • Whole graham crackers (350 g): Used to build the layered base and topping — the classic crisp and lightly sweet biscuit.
  • Milk or semisweet chocolate chips or chunks (2½ cups): Melt into luscious pockets of chocolate that make every bite heavenly.
  • Mini marshmallows (6 cups): Toast up golden and gooey, the star ingredient that brings that nostalgic s’mores charm.

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

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grab an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, making sure there’s some overhang on the sides so you can easily lift out the finished s’mores squares later. This simple step sets you up for an easy release and neat presentation.

Step 2: Create the Graham Cracker Paste

In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, just heating until everything is combined and the mixture loses its chill. Remove from heat and stir in the graham cracker crumbs to form a fluid paste. This mixture is your secret weapon for infusing every bite with buttery sweetness and a moist crumbly texture.

Step 3: Build the Layers

Layering is where the magic happens! Place a single layer of whole graham crackers on the bottom of your pan. Spoon about a third of the graham cracker paste onto the crackers and spread lightly — it doesn’t have to cover everything completely. Then, sprinkle a third of the mini marshmallows evenly across the top, followed by a third of the chocolate chips or chunks.

Repeat this process twice more: graham crackers, graham cracker paste, marshmallows, and chocolate, creating three luscious layers in total. This layering creates that perfect contrast of crispy and melty textures throughout every bite.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfect

Pop your stacked masterpiece into the oven for 16 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the marshmallows on top are beautifully toasted with a golden-brown hue. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn — that toasted marshmallow flavor is part of what makes Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores so irresistible.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Once out of the oven, let the s’mores cool on a rack. If you’re not serving right away, chill the pan completely before slicing into squares. Chilling helps the layers firm up for cleaner cuts and makes them easier to handle. Serve warm or at room temperature and watch everyone’s faces light up with happiness.

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

Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

If you want to elevate your Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores beyond their simple charm, consider sprinkling a bit of flaky sea salt or a few chocolate shavings on top right after baking. A dusting of cocoa powder can add subtle depth, or for a playful twist, drizzle melted peanut butter or caramel over the top just before serving to create a beautiful, indulgent finish.

Side Dishes

This dessert is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can take the experience to another level. Fresh berries or a tangy raspberry sauce offer a bright contrast to the sweetness, balancing the flavor profile wonderfully during warmer months.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these s’mores squares in mini mason jars or little paper cups for a fun party presentation. You can also layer them in a trifle dish with alternating layers of whipped cream and crushed cookies for an impressive dessert display. For a cozy night, plate them alongside a mug of hot cocoa or your favorite coffee for a dreamy pairing that feels like a warm hug.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores keep beautifully at room temperature for up to three days in an airtight container. The flavors meld more over time, making them even more enjoyable if you can resist devouring them immediately!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these s’mores squares. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen, they maintain their texture and flavor for up to one month, making them perfect for prepping treats in advance or saving for a special occasion.

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen or chilled s’mores with that fresh-from-the-oven feel, simply warm them gently in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds or heat in a low oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. This brings back the gooey melty texture and toasty marshmallow finish that make Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores so beloved.

FAQs

Can I use regular sized marshmallows instead of mini ones?

Using regular-sized marshmallows will work, but mini marshmallows create a more even, melty top layer that’s easier to manage and toast evenly. If you only have large marshmallows, consider chopping them into smaller pieces first for best results.

What kind of chocolate works best for this recipe?

Milk or semisweet chocolate chips or chunks are ideal because they melt smoothly and provide that classic s’mores flavor. Feel free to mix different types or even use bittersweet chocolate for a more intense chocolate experience.

Do I really need to chill the s’mores before cutting?

Chilling helps the layers set firmly so you can cut clean squares without everything falling apart. If you prefer warm, gooey pieces, you can cut immediately after baking but expect a messier, more rustic presentation.

Is there a gluten-free option for the graham crackers?

Yes, there are gluten-free graham crackers available at many grocery stores. Just substitute them equally in the recipe to enjoy Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores without gluten concerns.

How long do these s’mores last once assembled?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these s’mores stay delicious for up to three days. Beyond that, they may begin to lose their texture and freshness.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores enough if you’re craving an easy yet phenomenal dessert that hits all the right notes of nostalgia and deliciousness. Whether for a cozy family night or an impressive yet simple treat for friends, this recipe promises gooey, chocolaty joy with every square. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love with s’mores all over again!

Print

Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores Recipe

Anna Olson’s Oven-Baked S’Mores is a decadent layered dessert combining graham crackers, a rich buttery brown sugar paste, gooey mini marshmallows, and melty milk or semisweet chocolate chips. Baked to golden perfection, this treat is perfect for sharing and can be served warm or chilled for easy slicing.

  • Author: Dana
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 33 minutes
  • Yield: 12 to 16 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Brown Sugar Butter Paste

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
  • ½ cup 2% milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1¼ cups graham cracker crumbs

Layers

  • 350 g whole graham crackers (about 32-48, depending on the brand)
  • 2½ cups milk or semisweet (or mixed) chocolate chips or chunks
  • 6 cups mini marshmallows

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the paper to extend above the pan sides by about an inch to make lifting easier.
  2. Make the Brown Sugar Butter Paste: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the light brown sugar, 2% milk, and vanilla extract. Heat for about one minute until warmed through to remove chill from the milk, then remove from heat. Whisk in the graham cracker crumbs until you get a smooth, fluid paste.
  3. First Layer Assembly: Arrange a single layer of whole graham crackers evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. Spoon one third of the brown sugar butter paste over the crackers, spreading slightly but not needing to cover completely. Sprinkle one third of the mini marshmallows evenly on top, followed by one third of the chocolate chips.
  4. Second Layer Assembly: Place a second layer of graham crackers over the marshmallow and chocolate layer. Repeat spreading one third of the brown sugar butter paste, then topping with one third of the marshmallows and one third of the chocolate chips.
  5. Final Layer Assembly: Add the last layer of graham crackers and spread the remaining brown sugar butter paste on top. Finish by sprinkling the remaining marshmallows and chocolate chips evenly over the surface.
  6. Bake the S’Mores: Place the assembled pan in the preheated oven and bake for 16 to 20 minutes, or until the marshmallows on top are golden brown and toasted.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the pan to cool on a wire rack. If serving later, chill completely in the refrigerator to make slicing easier. Cut into squares and serve. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use semisweet chocolate chips or a mix of milk and semisweet.
  • Chilling the dessert before slicing helps achieve clean squares.
  • This recipe can be doubled in a larger pan if desired.
  • Mini marshmallows provide the best melting texture; regular size may affect layering.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 square (approx. 1/16 of recipe)
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 110 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: Anna Olson, Oven-Baked S’Mores, graham crackers, marshmallows, chocolate, dessert, baked s’mores, easy dessert, layered s’mores

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