When the sun begins to set and the evening air turns crisp, there’s an unmistakable longing for the flavors of summer campfires. Imagine the sweet, gooey delight of s’mores—melted chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and buttery graham crackers. What if I told you that you could recreate that magic without even stepping outside? This Campfire S’mores Cobbler is my go-to dessert for gatherings, combining all those nostalgic tastes into a warm, inviting dish that bakes in your oven!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as perfect for family movie nights as it is for potlucks. Plus, with gluten-free options available, it’s a dessert that welcomes everyone to indulge. So, grab your mixing bowls and let’s create a mess-free, oven-baked version of your favorite summer treat that promises to delight both young and old alike!
Why is S’mores Cobbler a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavors: This dessert combines gooey chocolate, fluffy marshmallows, and buttery graham crackers for a taste that transports you back to summer camp.
Quick preparation: In just 40 minutes, you’ll be indulging in a delicious dessert that requires minimal effort, perfect for any occasion.
Gluten-free option: Enjoy the classic s’mores experience with gluten-free substitutions, making it a favorite for everyone.
Crowd pleaser: This recipe is ideal for gatherings, enticing both kids and adults alike with its warm, comforting appeal.
No campfire needed: Enjoy the nostalgic flavors of s’mores right from your oven without the hassle of outdoor cooking.
Serve with ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top elevates this treat to a whole new level of indulgence.
S’mores Cobbler Ingredients
For the Chocolate Filling
• Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess to the chocolate filling; use canned coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
• Espresso Powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor; omit if you don’t have it on hand.
• Chocolate Chips – Provides sweetness and a fudgy texture; semi-sweet or milk chocolate can be used, or swap with dark chocolate if preferred.
• Vanilla Extract – Contributes depth of flavor to the entire dish; no notable substitutions necessary.
For the Cobbler Topping
• All-Purpose Flour (or Gluten-Free 1:1 Flour) – Forms the base for the cobbler topping; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Ground Graham Crackers – Adds a classic flavor component; opt for gluten-free graham crackers if needed.
• Sugar – Sweetens the topping; consider using coconut sugar for a healthier choice.
• Baking Powder – Provides leavening for a light cobbler; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness; no substitutions are recommended.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth; nutmeg can provide an interesting twist as a substitute.
• Cold Butter – Provides richness and flakiness; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a tangy flavor; mix ¾ cup milk with 2 tsp vinegar or lemon juice for a homemade version.
For the S’mores Layer
• Large Marshmallows – Essential for creating the classic s’mores layer; mini or vegan marshmallows can be substituted.
Indulge in this S’mores Cobbler, where every bite brings back those warmth-filled summer memories!
How to Make S’mores Cobbler
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, take a moment to grease a 12-inch round or 9×11-inch deep baking dish—this ensures your cobbler doesn’t stick!
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Make Chocolate Filling: In a double boiler, melt together the heavy cream, espresso powder, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. Pour this decadent mixture into the prepared baking dish.
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Prepare Cobbler Topping: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground graham crackers, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Finally, stir in the vanilla and buttermilk until just combined.
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Assemble Cobbler: Drop spoonfuls of the cobbler topping over the chocolate filling, ensuring to leave some space for it to expand. Tuck half of the marshmallows into the topping, creating those delightful pockets of gooeyness.
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Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the chocolate is bubbling. When done, remove from the oven and add the remaining marshmallows on top. Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until the marshmallows are toasted and puffy.
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Rest and Serve: Allow the cobbler to cool for about 10 minutes. This rest period helps thicken the chocolate filling, making it easier to serve warm and enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Optional: Drizzle chocolate syrup on top for an extra sweet touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze S’mores Cobbler
Fridge: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled cobbler in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes. This will restore the gooey chocolate texture for your delicious S’mores Cobbler.
Serving: Always serve warm for the best experience, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Expert Tips for S’mores Cobbler
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Oven Accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is just right, avoiding underbaking or overbaking the cobbler.
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Resting Time: Allow the cobbler to cool for 10 minutes after baking. This helps the chocolate filling to set properly and makes slicing easier.
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Check for Doneness: The topping should be a beautiful golden brown, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.
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Serving Suggestion: For the ultimate indulgence, serve your warm S’mores Cobbler with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
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Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to experiment with gluten-free or dairy-free substitutions to cater to dietary preferences while still enjoying this classic dessert!
What to Serve with S’mores Cobbler?
When it comes to enjoying this delightful dessert, pairing it with complementary flavors and textures can elevate your experience to new heights.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a creamy, cold contrast to the warm, gooey cobbler, making each bite a dreamy indulgence.
- Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst of tartness that beautifully balances the sweetness of the dessert.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream can enhance the richness of the chocolate filling while providing a delightful texture contrast.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cobbler amps up the chocolate flavor, giving you a truly decadent treat that chocolate lovers crave.
- Toasted Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans offer a crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the soft, gooey layers, adding depth to each bite.
- Hot Cocoa: Serve a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy beverage option that complements the chocolatey goodness of the cobbler.
- Espresso: The bold flavors of espresso can heighten the chocolate experience, making for a sophisticated pairing that coffee lovers will appreciate.
- S’mores Dip: For the ultimate s’mores experience, serve a side of s’mores dip with graham crackers for an interactive dessert experience.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel adds a buttery sweetness that contrasts nicely with the chocolate and marshmallows, creating a luscious profile.
S’mores Cobbler Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with some fun and delicious adaptations!
- Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream for canned coconut milk and use vegan butter for a tasty dairy-free treat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free 1:1 flour and gluten-free graham crackers to create a version that everyone can enjoy.
- Nutty Twist: Add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the topping for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Bar Upgrade: Replace chocolate chips with chopped chocolate bars for a rich and decadent filling.
- Marshmallow Magic: Try different flavored marshmallows like caramel or strawberry for a fun flavor surprise!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili powder or cayenne to the chocolate filling for a subtle spicy warmth that balances the sweetness.
- Top with Ice Cream: Serve your cobbler warm with a scoop of flavored ice cream, such as salted caramel or chocolate brownie, for an indulgent dessert.
- Mini Portions: Create individual cobblers in ramekins for a personalized serving option that’s perfect for gatherings.
Let your culinary creativity shine as you personalize this S’mores Cobbler for the whole family to enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These S’mores Cobbler preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can create the chocolate filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container, preventing any loss of flavor. Additionally, the cobbler topping can be mixed and placed in a separate container, also keeping well for up to 24 hours. When it’s time to bake, simply combine the chocolate filling and topping, assemble as directed, and pop it into the oven. This way, you’ll have the warm, gooey results of a freshly baked S’mores Cobbler without the last-minute stress of preparation!
S’mores Cobbler Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the chocolate filling, use high-quality chocolate chips for a richer flavor. If you’re opting for graham crackers, fresh ones without any dark spots or broken pieces work best for a perfect crumb texture.
How should I store leftover S’mores Cobbler?
To store your remaining S’mores Cobbler, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best results.
Can I freeze S’mores Cobbler?
Yes, you can! After the cobbler has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy a slice, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven as mentioned above for optimal texture.
What should I do if my cobbler topping is too crumbly?
Very! If your cobbler topping seems too dry or crumbly, it might be due to the flour measurement. Make sure you’re gently spooning the flour into the measuring cup without packing it down. Alternatively, you can add a touch more buttermilk, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture holds together better.
Are there any dietary considerations for my S’mores Cobbler?
Absolutely! If you’re making this dessert for someone with gluten sensitivities, simply use gluten-free graham crackers and a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. You can also substitute the heavy cream with canned coconut milk for a dairy-free option, and select vegan marshmallows instead of regular ones. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
How long does it take for the cobbler to cool before serving?
After removing it from the oven, let your S’mores Cobbler rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the chocolate filling to thicken and set properly, making for easier slicing and serving. Plus, it keeps every indulgent scoop warm and gooey!
Indulge in S'mores Cobbler: Easy, Gooey, and Gluten-Free!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-inch round or 9x11-inch deep baking dish.
- In a double boiler, melt together heavy cream, espresso powder, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, ground graham crackers, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Stir in vanilla and buttermilk until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cobbler topping over the chocolate filling, leaving space for it to expand. Tuck half of the marshmallows into the topping.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. Add remaining marshmallows on top and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until toasted.
- Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
