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Picture this: you’re cozied up on a chilly evening, the comforting crackle of a fireplace nearby, and a craving for something sweet creeping in. Suddenly, the thought of homemade S’mores Pop Tarts bursts into your mind, instantly transporting you back to summer campfires and gooey marshmallows. With the nostalgic combination of rich chocolate and toasty marshmallow, these delightful treats are the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the hassle of store-bought snacks.

I stumbled onto this recipe while searching for a cozy evening project, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Unlike typical pop tarts, this version boasts a gluten-free crust with a buttery, flaky texture that perfectly cradles a luscious chocolate filling. Each bite is a celebration of flavor that’s bound to impress—even if the only audience is yourself!

So, if you’re tired of the same old snacks and looking to elevate your homemade dessert game, let’s dive into this delicious recipe. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why are S’mores Pop Tarts the best treat?

Irresistible nostalgia: These S’mores Pop Tarts bring back childhood memories with every bite, enveloping you in a warm blanket of nostalgia.
Gluten-free goodness: With a gluten-free crust, everyone can indulge without worries about dietary restrictions.
Decadent filling: The rich chocolate filling with just the right amount of sweetness hits the spot and satisfies cravings like nothing else.
Customizable delight: Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite toppings or mix-ins to make them truly your own!
Easy to make: While they may sound fancy, this recipe is easy enough for anyone to whip up in your cozy kitchen.
Plus, for a delightful twist, you might want to check out our guide on alternative fillings for added inspiration.

S’mores Pop Tarts Ingredients

For the Chocolate Filling

Cocoa powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor, making your S’mores Pop Tarts irresistibly decadent.
White sugar – Sweetens the filling, balancing the chocolate’s bitterness.
Milk – Creates a smooth mixture; dairy alternatives can be used if preferred.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the filling.
Chopped dark chocolate – Provides a luscious chocolatey texture; use good quality chocolate for the best results.
Unsalted butter – Contributes to a creamy, rich filling.

For the Dough

Cold water – Important for creating a flaky crust; ensure it’s icy cold.
Apple cider vinegar – Adds tenderness to the dough and helps it rise; a splash of lemon juice can substitute.
Gluten-free flour blend – The base for a delightful crust that everyone can enjoy.
Coconut flour – Adds a slight nuttiness; helps absorb moisture.
Xanthan gum – Offers structure and elasticity to the gluten-free dough.
More white sugar – For a hint of sweetness in the crust.
Cold unsalted butter – Keeps the dough flaky; never skip this for texture!

For the Meringue Frosting

Egg whites – Essential for a fluffy frosting that holds its shape.
White sugar – Sweetens the frosting; you can adjust the amount to taste.
Cream of tartar – Stabilizes the egg whites, ensuring a perfect meringue every time.

With these simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to crafting a delightful batch of S’mores Pop Tarts that beat any fast food option! Happy baking!

How to Make S’mores Pop Tarts

Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, mix together the cocoa powder, 1/4 cup sugar, milk, salt, and half of the chopped dark chocolate. Heat over medium until the chocolate melts and the mixture becomes smooth.
Melt fully: Remove from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and the remaining chopped chocolate until everything is melted and well combined. Set the mixture aside to cool to room temperature.
Prepare vinegar mixture: In a cup, whisk together the cold water and apple cider vinegar, then place it in the freezer while you prepare the dough.
Sift dry ingredients: Sift together the gluten-free flour, coconut flour, xanthan gum, salt, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar in a large bowl.
Mix in butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Toss until all the pieces are coated, then pinch the mixture until you achieve a mix of pea-sized and thumb-sized pieces.
Incorporate wet mixture: Gradually add the ice-cold water-vinegar mixture, 2 tablespoons at a time, using a fork to combine until the dough just comes together. Aim for 14-16 tablespoons total.
Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a rectangle, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Preheat oven: While your dough chills, preheat the oven to 355°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with baking paper.
Roll out the dough: Once chilled, roll out the dough to about 3 mm thick and cut out 16 rectangles measuring approximately 3 x 4 inches.
Fill the pop tarts: Brush the edges of half of the rectangles with egg wash. Spoon a heaped tablespoon of chocolate filling onto the center, leaving a 3/4 inch border.
Seal the pop tarts: Prick the centers of the remaining rectangles with a toothpick, then place them over the filled rectangles. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork.
Bake: Place the pop tarts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 – 22 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool down: Allow the pop tarts to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
Prepare the frosting: In a heat-proof bowl, mix the frosting ingredients and place it over a pot of simmering water. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches 140°F (60°C) and the sugar has dissolved.
Whip the frosting: Remove from heat and transfer to a stand mixer. Whisk for 5 – 7 minutes until it cools to room temperature and forms glossy peaks.
Frost and toast: Swirl a dollop of the frosting onto each cooled pop tart and place them under the grill for 5 – 10 seconds, just until toasted and warm.

Optional: Drizzle with chocolate syrup for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze S’mores Pop Tarts

Room Temperature: Keep your S’mores Pop Tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to enjoy their fresh taste.

Fridge: For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to a week. Be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze the baked pop tarts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps restore their flaky texture!

What to Serve with S’mores Pop Tarts?

Imagine the laughter of friends gathered around, enjoying delightful treats that bring everyone together, igniting those cozy moments.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla pairs beautifully with the chocolate filling, balancing the sweetness and adding a luscious creaminess.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a tart contrast that brightens each bite, making your dessert experience feel more vibrant and fresh.
Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A warm cup complements the sweetness of the pop tarts and can turn your treat into a delightful afternoon or evening ritual.
Toasted Marshmallows: Channel the campfire vibe by serving a few crispy marshmallows on the side for that extra layer of nostalgia.
Chopped Nuts: Pecans or almonds sprinkled on top add a crunchy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the softness of the pop tarts.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your S’mores Pop Tarts further with a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

With these pairings, you’ll create a full atmosphere of warmth and delight that complements the sweet nostalgia of S’mores Pop Tarts, perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet nights in.

S’mores Pop Tarts Variations

Get creative and make these delightful pop tarts your own with simple twists and enjoyable swaps!

Nut-Free: Substitute almond or coconut flour with an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour for a nut-free version.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut or almond milk in place of regular milk and replace the butter with dairy-free butter or coconut oil for a luscious filling. A hint of vanilla extract always enhances flavor!
Extra Crunch: Add crushed graham crackers to the chocolate filling for a delightful crunchy texture. This adds a satisfying bite that enhances the classic S’mores experience.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate mashed ripe bananas or pureed strawberries into the chocolate filling for a refreshing fruit flavor. These can create a delightful contrast to the richness of the chocolate.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the filling for a surprising spicy twist. This unexpected warmth will tickle your taste buds and elevate your treat.
Vegan: Substitute the egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) and use a plant-based butter for a completely vegan-friendly option.
Chocolate Lovers: Double the chopped dark chocolate in the filling for an extra rich and indulgent flavor that will truly satisfy any chocolate craving.
Seasonal Flavors: Experiment with different flavored extracts, like peppermint during the holidays, or orange zest in summer for a refreshing citrus flair. The possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead Options

These S’mores Pop Tarts are perfect for busy weeknights or those moments when you just want to enjoy a sweet treat without the fuss! You can prepare the chocolate filling up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, the dough can be rolled and shaped into rectangles, wrapped tightly in cling film, and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the final steps by filling, sealing, and baking them as instructed. To maintain their delightful freshness, be sure to store the baked pop tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, ensuring they taste just as delicious!

Tips for the Best S’mores Pop Tarts

Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate your dough for at least an hour. This helps achieve that flaky texture that makes your S’mores Pop Tarts irresistible.
Use Cold Ingredients: When mixing the butter into the flour, ensure everything is cold to prevent the butter from melting. This is key for flakiness!
Don’t Overfill: When adding the chocolate filling, leave enough room around the edges to seal. Overfilling can cause messy pop tarts that burst open while baking.
Perfectly Toasted Frosting: Keep an eye on the frosting under the grill; just a few seconds can make the difference between lightly toasted and overly charred.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to incorporate your favorite mix-ins or toppings! Marshmallows or a sprinkle of sea salt can elevate your S’mores Pop Tarts.

S’mores Pop Tarts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my S’mores Pop Tarts?
For this recipe, the most important ingredient to check is the chocolate. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate that is smooth and free of any signs of bloomed texture, which appears as a white film. Ensure that your butter is fresh and cold; a better texture leads to a flakier crust!

What’s the best way to store S’mores Pop Tarts?
Absolutely! Keep your S’mores Pop Tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to stay fresh longer, wrap them securely and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking, to prevent sticking!

Can I freeze S’mores Pop Tarts?
Sure thing! After baking, allow the S’mores Pop Tarts to cool completely. Then, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag where they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

What do I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, fear not! Just sprinkle in a little extra gluten-free flour while kneading until it reaches a workable consistency. Remember to handle the dough minimally to avoid overworking it, which can lead to tough pop tarts instead of light and flaky ones.

Are there any dietary considerations for S’mores Pop Tarts?
Very! This recipe is gluten-free due to the specific flour blend used, but double-check the labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten-containing ingredients. For allergies, be cautious with chocolate brands, as some may contain milk or nuts. If you have any pet considerations, remember that chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats, so keep these treats safely out of their reach!

How do I get the frosting to form the perfect peaks?
For that glossy meringue frosting, the key is patience! After heating the mixture to 140°F (60°C), whisk it for 5 – 7 minutes on medium speed until it cools down and forms those lovely peaks. If it’s not holding its shape, ensure you’re using fresh egg whites and the right amount of cream of tartar to stabilize it.