There’s something magical about combining three beloved campfire treats into one delicious creation—enter the S’mores Cookie Cups! These delightful bites are perfect for anyone who craves the rich, gooey goodness of classic s'mores but wants to swap the outdoor fire for the cozy comfort of their kitchen. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a mere 12 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a batch of these cookie cups warm and ready for sharing (or keeping all for yourself). Plus, they offer an irresistible twist to your dessert lineup and are incredibly fun to make! So, are you ready to indulge in a cookie experience that will transport you back to those nostalgic camping nights? Let’s get baking!
Why Are S’mores Cookie Cups Irresistible?
Sweet, nostalgic flavors: S’mores Cookie Cups capture the essence of childhood camping trips, bringing together buttery cookie, smooth chocolate, and toasted marshmallow all in one bite.
Quick and easy: With only 20 minutes of prep and 12 minutes to bake, you’ll have delightful treats ready in no time—perfect for unexpected cravings!
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for a snack, party, or family dessert, these are sure to impress everyone at your table.
Customizable creation: Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins or swap chocolate for caramel, making these cookie cups equally fun for all ages!
Minimal cleanup: Baking in a muffin pan simplifies the process and makes for easy serving, allowing you to enjoy time with loved ones.
Try serving them alongside a scoop of ice cream for a truly decadent experience!
S’mores Cookie Cups Ingredients
For the Cookie Batter
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – this gives your cookie cups a rich and buttery flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – balances sweetness and helps achieve a tender texture.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar – adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 2 large eggs – they help bind the ingredients together and create a fluffy interior.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor of the cookie.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – the foundation of your cookie, providing structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps your cookie cups rise, making them fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt – enhances the sweetness of the cookie.
For the Toppings
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips – ensures a gooey chocolate center that just melts in your mouth.
- 12 graham cracker squares, broken into pieces – provides that classic s'mores crunch and flavor.
- 6 large marshmallows, halved – these are key for that toasty, gooey s'mores experience.
Enjoy crafting these S’mores Cookie Cups with this simple and delightful ingredient list!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S’mores Cookie Cups
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Muffin Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or butter. This will ensure your S’mores Cookie Cups can be easily removed after baking. Gather all your ingredients, so you’re ready to create warm, gooey treats in just a few moments.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. This step creates the perfect base for your cookie cups, ensuring a deliciously rich flavor.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add 2 large eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time, fully incorporating each egg before adding the next. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is well blended. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, making it a delight to work with for your S’mores Cookie Cups.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt to combine the dry ingredients. This ensures an even distribution of leavening agent and flavor, giving your cookie cups the perfect rise and structure during baking.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough cookie cups. You want your dough to be thick and slightly sticky, ideal for forming those beautiful cups packed with S’mores goodness.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in 1 cup of milk chocolate chips gently with a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This will ensure that each S’mores Cookie Cup has melty pockets of chocolate that are oozing with deliciousness when you take a bite.
Step 7: Assemble the Cookie Cups
Press a few pieces of broken graham crackers into the bottom of each muffin well, creating a crunchy base. Then, scoop the cookie dough into each well, filling them about two-thirds full and pressing gently to form a cup shape. This will create the perfect vessel for your S’mores delight.
Step 8: Bake the Cookie Cups
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookie cups turn golden brown. The centers may look slightly soft, which is fine, as they will set while cooling. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake!
Step 9: Add Marshmallow Toppings
Once baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven and top each cookie cup with a half of a large marshmallow, placing it cut-side up. The marshmallows will create that classic S’mores flavor, ensuring each cup is wonderfully gooey and delicious.
Step 10: Broil for Toasted Finish
Return the pan to the oven and switch to broil, cooking on high for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely, as the marshmallows will toast quickly; you’re looking for a golden, bubbly finish. This toasting will add that crunchy, caramelized top that completes the S’mores experience.
Step 11: Cool and Transfer
Allow the cookie cups to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This will help them firm up before you remove them. After cooling, gently transfer the S’mores Cookie Cups to a wire rack to cool completely, making them perfect for serving or devouring at your leisure!
What to Serve with S’mores Cookie Cups
Experience the perfect balance of sweetness and richness to elevate your delicious treats into a full meal.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream melts beautifully over warm cookie cups, enhancing that indulgent s'mores experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: The brightness of seasonal berries cuts through the sweetness, offering a refreshing contrast that keeps each bite exciting.
- Chocolate Milk: Pair with creamy chocolate milk for a nostalgic twist, harking back to childhood treat pairings everyone loves.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade caramel over your cookie cups adds a delightful complexity, deepening the sweetness and flavor.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of nutty granola on top gives you a satisfying crunch, while also bringing some wholesome elements into the mix.
- Chilled Lemonade: The tanginess of lemonade serves as a zesty counterpoint to the rich cookie cups, making each bite more refreshing.
- Marshmallow Dip: A side of marshmallow dip allows for fun dunking, intensifying the gooey s'mores experience that makes this dessert so beloved.
- Decaf Coffee: For the adults, a soothing cup of decaf coffee balances sweetness perfectly, enhancing the flavors while providing a cozy finish.
Expert Tips for S’mores Cookie Cups
-
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing, leading to a perfectly fluffy texture in your S’mores Cookie Cups.
-
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can result in tough cookie cups, so be cautious!
-
Watch the Broiling Time: Marshmallows can burn easily under the broiler, so stay close and keep an eye on them to achieve that ideal golden toast without charring.
-
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the granulated or brown sugar slightly; it’ll still be scrumptious, especially with the chocolate and marshmallows.
-
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate or even caramel bits for a different twist on your S’mores Cookie Cups, keeping it fun and personalized!
How to Store and Freeze S’mores Cookie Cups
Room Temperature: Store S’mores Cookie Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: For extended freshness, keep the cookie cups in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
Freezer: Freeze individual cookie cups in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They can last for up to 3 months and are perfect for quick treats!
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen S’mores Cookie Cups, defrost and warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Make Ahead Options
These S’mores Cookie Cups are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time while still enjoying a delightful treat! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions until you combine the wet and dry ingredients, then cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate. The graham cracker base can also be prepped ahead; store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you're ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough into the muffin pan with the prepped graham crackers, bake as directed, and finish with the marshmallow toppings just before serving for that warm, gooey experience. These S’mores Cookie Cups will taste just as delicious, saving you time during busy weeknights!
S’mores Cookie Cups Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor your S’mores Cookie Cups to your taste buds with these delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to make these cookie cups gluten-free without losing flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for an extra crunch and nutty flavor in every bite.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Stir in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter to the batter for a rich, nutty taste that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
- Toffee Crunch: Mix in ½ cup of toffee bits for a delightful caramel flavor that adds a bit of crunch to your cookie cups.
- Spiced Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a warm, spicy kick that balances the sweetness.
- Darker Chocolate: Swap milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Mini Marshmallows: For more gooeyness, use mini marshmallows instead of halved large ones, allowing for a soft, marshmallowy center in each cookie cup.
- Fun with Flavors: Experiment with flavored accents like toffee or mint chocolate chips to create unique flavor profiles that surprise and delight with every bite.
Whichever variation you choose, these tweaks will make your S’mores Cookie Cups even more irresistible! You might also love trying them with a scoop of homemade ice cream for a truly indulgent dessert.
S’mores Cookie Cups Recipe FAQs
What type of chocolate works best for S’mores Cookie Cups?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate chips offer the classic S’mores flavor, but for a twist, you can try dark chocolate or even semi-sweet chocolate. Each will give your cookie cups a different depth of flavor. I often mix and match depending on my mood!
How should I store leftover S’mores Cookie Cups?
To keep your S’mores Cookie Cups fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life even further, pop them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
Can I freeze S’mores Cookie Cups?
Absolutely! To freeze them, first place the S’mores Cookie Cups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag where they'll last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to indulge, simply defrost and reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
What can I do if my S’mores Cookie Cups overflowed during baking?
If your cookie cups overflowed, don’t fret! This can happen if they're overfilled. Next time, scoop the dough into the muffin pan, filling only about two-thirds of the way full to allow room for rising. If they do overflow, let them cool slightly then use a spoon to carefully trim off any excess dough for a neat presentation.
Are S’mores Cookie Cups suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! S’mores Cookie Cups are nut-free as written, but always check your ingredient labels, especially chocolate chips and marshmallows, to ensure they haven't been processed in facilities that handle nuts. This is especially important if you’re preparing for someone with a severe allergy.
S’mores Cookie Cups: A Dreamy Treat for All Sweet Lovers
Equipment
- Mini Muffin Pan
- Electric Mixer
Ingredients
For the Cookie Batter
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened this gives your cookie cups a rich and buttery flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar balances sweetness and helps achieve a tender texture.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 2 large eggs they help bind the ingredients together and create a fluffy interior.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cookie.
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour the foundation of your cookie, providing structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda helps your cookie cups rise, making them fluffy.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt enhances the sweetness of the cookie.
For the Toppings
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips ensures a gooey chocolate center that just melts in your mouth.
- 12 squares graham crackers, broken into pieces provides that classic s'mores crunch and flavor.
- 6 large marshmallows, halved these are key for that toasty, gooey s'mores experience.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for S’mores Cookie Cups
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time, incorporating fully before adding the next, then stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in milk chocolate chips gently until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Press broken graham cracker pieces into the bottom of each muffin well, then scoop cookie dough into each well, filling about two-thirds full.
- Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pan and top each cookie cup with a half of a large marshmallow, cut-side up.
- Return the pan to the oven and switch to broil, cooking on high for 1-2 minutes until marshmallows toast golden.
- Allow the cookie cups to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Leave a Reply