Get ready for a dessert experience that effortlessly combines two beloved classics: the rich, fudgy delight of brownies and the gooey, toasted perfection of s’mores. Our Brownie S’mores Dip is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration in a skillet, delivering all the craveable flavors you adore without the need for a campfire. This incredibly easy-to-make dessert dip is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering, big or small, or even a cozy night in.
Imagine a warm, chocolatey brownie base, studded with extra chocolate chips, generously topped with an irresistible layer of melted chocolate chunks and a blanket of golden, perfectly toasted marshmallows. All baked to perfection in a single cast-iron skillet, ready to be scooped up with crisp graham crackers. It’s a versatile treat that transitions seamlessly from summer cookouts to cozy winter evenings, offering a comforting warmth and explosive flavor any time of year.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Skillet S’mores Brownie Dip
This Brownie S’mores Dip recipe takes the traditional campfire favorite and elevates it into a simple, shareable, and utterly decadent dessert. It’s the perfect solution when you’re craving that classic combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker but don’t have access to a fire pit or simply prefer a less messy option.
- Effortlessly Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this dessert comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for impromptu gatherings or last-minute cravings.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The fusion of rich, fudgy brownie with creamy melted chocolate and gooey, toasted marshmallows is universally loved. It’s a guaranteed hit with guests of all ages.
- Year-Round Enjoyment: While perfect for summer cookouts, this warm skillet dessert is equally comforting on a chilly evening, making it a versatile addition to your dessert repertoire.
- No Campfire Needed: Achieve perfectly toasted marshmallows right in your oven, eliminating the need for outdoor equipment and making s’mores accessible anywhere, anytime.
- Interactive and Fun: Serving a dip encourages communal sharing and dipping, creating a fun and engaging dessert experience for everyone.
Beyond this chocolatey indulgence, if you’re exploring other delightful warm-weather desserts, consider classics like Easy Strawberry Shortcake or a vibrant Blueberry Cake. However, when that undeniable chocolate craving hits, nothing quite satisfies like s’mores, and this dip delivers that satisfaction in spades.
What Exactly Is Brownie S’mores Dip?
A Brownie S’mores Dip is a delectable, layered dessert baked in a cast-iron skillet. It starts with a base of rich, homemade brownie batter, often studded with chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor. This brownie layer is partially baked until it’s set but still wonderfully soft. Then, it’s generously topped with additional chocolate – typically chopped chocolate or more chocolate chips – which melts into a luscious pool over the warm brownie. The grand finale is a magnificent layer of halved marshmallows, strategically placed and then broiled until they puff up, turn beautifully golden brown, and become irresistibly gooey. The result is a molten, chocolatey, marshmallowy masterpiece that’s spoon-tender and incredibly addictive, designed to be scooped up and enjoyed with your favorite dippers.
Essential Ingredients for Your Skillet S’mores Dip
Crafting this incredible dessert requires a handful of common pantry staples, ensuring that deliciousness is always within reach. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Brownie S’mores Skillet Dip:
- Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is key to a deep, rich chocolate flavor in your brownie base. Dutch-processed cocoa will give a darker color and milder chocolate taste.
- Light Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture, contributing to the fudgy texture of the brownie. You can substitute with granulated sugar if brown sugar isn’t available, but the texture might vary slightly.
- All-Purpose Flour: The structural backbone of your brownie. Ensure it’s accurately measured, preferably by weight, or using the spoon-and-level method.
- Kosher Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors, balancing the sweetness and intensifying the chocolate. Don’t skip it!
- Mini Chocolate Chips: These get mixed into the brownie batter, adding pockets of molten chocolate throughout. Regular chocolate chips can also be used, or even chopped chocolate.
- Large Eggs: Act as a binder and provide richness and structure to the brownie. Ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
- Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla complements the chocolate beautifully, adding depth to the overall flavor profile. Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
- Unsalted Butter (Melted): Provides richness and moisture. Melting it allows for easy incorporation and contributes to the fudginess. Using unsalted butter gives you control over the salt content.
- Dark or Milk Chocolate (Chopped or Chips): This is the crucial layer between the brownie and marshmallows. Opt for good quality chocolate. Milk chocolate offers a sweeter, creamier melt, while dark chocolate provides a more intense, less sweet contrast. Avoid semi-sweet if you prefer a richer, more authentic s’mores experience.
- Marshmallows (Halved): The iconic topping! Cutting larger marshmallows in half ensures an even layer and helps them toast beautifully. Mini marshmallows can also be used; just arrange them in a single, even layer.
Equipment You’ll Need
One of the beauties of this recipe is its simplicity, both in ingredients and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to make your Brownie S’mores Dip:
- Cast-Iron Skillet (8 or 10-inch): This is the star of the show! A cast-iron skillet retains heat exceptionally well, ensuring your dip stays warm and gooey for longer. Its oven-safe nature is also essential for both baking the brownie and broiling the marshmallows.
- Medium Mixing Bowl: For combining your brownie batter ingredients.
- Whisk or Spatula: To mix the brownie batter until smooth and well combined.
- Rubber Spatula: Ideal for spreading the brownie batter evenly in the skillet and for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Oven and Broiler: For baking the brownie and toasting the marshmallows to golden perfection.
How to Make Brownie S’mores Dip: Step-by-Step Guide
Making this delightful Brownie S’mores Dip is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a perfectly gooey and satisfying dessert:
- Prepare Your Skillet and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly grease an 8 or 10-inch cast-iron skillet with butter. This prevents the brownie from sticking and ensures easy serving.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and mini chocolate chips. Make sure there are no lumps in the brown sugar.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients. Add the large eggs and vanilla extract, mixing them in thoroughly. Slowly drizzle in the melted unsalted butter, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are fine.
- Bake the Brownie Base: Pour the prepared brownie batter into your greased cast-iron skillet. Use a rubber spatula to spread the batter evenly across the bottom of the pan. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the brownie is slightly firm to the touch on top but still wonderfully soft in the center.
- Add Chocolate and Marshmallows: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the chopped dark or milk chocolate (or chocolate chips) over the warm brownie. Immediately arrange the halved marshmallows on top of the chocolate, cut-side down for a neater appearance and more even toasting.
- Broil to Golden Perfection: Place the skillet back into the oven, but under the broiler. Keep a very close eye on the marshmallows! Broiling happens quickly, and they can burn in a matter of seconds. Broil until the marshmallows are beautifully golden brown and toasted to your liking. This usually takes just 1-3 minutes.
From start to finish, this entire dessert takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and bake. Serve it immediately while the chocolate and marshmallows are still wonderfully warm and gooey. Remember, the cast-iron skillet will be very hot, so handle with care!
Tips for the Best Brownie S’mores Dip
- Don’t Overmix the Brownie Batter: Overmixing can lead to a tougher brownie. Mix until just combined.
- Use Quality Chocolate: The type of chocolate you use for the topping makes a big difference in flavor and melt. Milk chocolate for a sweeter, classic s’mores taste, or dark chocolate for a richer, more sophisticated profile.
- Watch the Broiler Closely: Marshmallows can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly. Stay by the oven and check frequently.
- Cut Marshmallows Evenly: Halving larger marshmallows creates a beautiful, even layer and allows for more consistent toasting.
- Serve Warm: This dip is best enjoyed immediately after broiling, while everything is still molten and gooey.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Eggs at room temperature emulsify better with other ingredients, leading to a smoother batter.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This Brownie S’mores Dip is incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas to customize it and make it your own:
Delicious Variations:
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl a few tablespoons of peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking, or dollop it over the chocolate layer before adding marshmallows.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle some salted caramel sauce over the chocolate layer for an extra layer of decadence.
- Different Chocolate Chips: Experiment with white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even chopped candy bars in the brownie batter or as a topping.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the brownie batter for a delightful crunch.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper in the brownie batter can add a subtle, exciting kick to the chocolate.
- Mini Marshmallows: While we recommend halved regular marshmallows, a single layer of mini marshmallows also works wonderfully and can create a denser toasted topping.
Perfect Dippers:
While graham crackers are the quintessential companion for s’mores, don’t limit yourself! Here are some other fantastic dippers:
- Classic Graham Crackers: The traditional choice, offering a perfect crunch and subtle honey flavor.
- Fruit: Fresh strawberries, banana slices, or apple wedges offer a refreshing contrast to the richness.
- Cookies: Shortbread, vanilla wafers, or even chocolate chip cookies make excellent dippers.
- Pretzel Rods: For a sweet and salty combination that is absolutely irresistible.
- Biscuits or Waffles: For an indulgent breakfast or brunch treat.
How Long Is Brownie S’mores Dip Good For?
As with all s’mores creations, this delightful dip is undoubtedly best enjoyed warm, right after it comes out of the oven, mimicking the experience of a fresh campfire s’more. The heat from the cast-iron skillet helps keep the dip wonderfully molten and gooey for a good while, allowing everyone to enjoy it at its peak deliciousness. However, once the dip begins to cool down, the marshmallows and chocolate will naturally start to harden. While still edible, the texture won’t be as delightfully melty.
If you do have leftovers (which is rare, given how quickly this disappears!), you can cover the skillet tightly with foil and refrigerate it. To reheat, you can place the covered skillet back in a low oven (around 250°F / 120°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through and the chocolate is melty again. You might need to give the marshmallows a quick flash under the broiler again if you want that fresh toasted crust. However, it’s truly designed for immediate, hot consumption, and you’ll find it usually doesn’t last long enough to worry about storage!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different pan instead of a cast-iron skillet?
While a cast-iron skillet is highly recommended for its heat retention and oven-to-table appeal, you can use any oven-safe baking dish of a similar size (e.g., an 8×8 inch square baking dish or a small round ceramic dish). Just be aware that it might not retain heat as long as cast iron, so serve quickly!
Can I use a boxed brownie mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! For an even quicker and easier version, you can certainly use your favorite boxed brownie mix. Simply prepare the brownie batter according to the package directions, then pour it into the greased skillet and proceed with step 4 of the instructions.
Can I prepare this Brownie S’mores Dip ahead of time?
It’s best made and served fresh, as the gooey texture is paramount. However, you can prepare the brownie batter a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, pour it into the skillet, let it come closer to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, then proceed with baking and adding toppings.
What kind of marshmallows work best?
Large standard marshmallows work wonderfully when cut in half, providing a good, puffy toasted layer. Mini marshmallows can also be used; simply arrange them in a single, even layer over the chocolate. Marshmallow creme or fluff can be a substitute, but the texture and browning will be different (more uniform, less individual toasted peaks).
How do I get perfectly toasted marshmallows without burning them?
The key is constant vigilance! Position your oven rack so the skillet is 6-8 inches from the broiler element. Preheat your broiler, then place the skillet under it. Watch continuously; marshmallows can toast and burn in a matter of seconds. Rotate the pan if needed for even browning. As soon as they reach your desired golden color, remove the skillet immediately.
Is this recipe really easy enough for beginners?
Yes, absolutely! This Brownie S’mores Dip is designed to be straightforward and forgiving, making it an excellent recipe for beginner bakers. The steps are simple, and the results are consistently impressive.
More S’mores Inspired Delights
If you simply can’t get enough of that magical combination of marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of s’mores-inspired treats to explore beyond this dip. Why not try your hand at Golden Grahams S’mores Bars for a crispy, chewy twist, or whip up a batch of soft and chewy S’mores Cookies? For a fun, no-bake option that everyone loves, S’mores Rice Krispies Treats are always a winner. Each recipe offers a unique way to enjoy those classic s’mores flavors!
Brownie S’mores Dip
Pin It For Later
Let’s Connect!
Join our fun community on Facebook! It’s the perfect spot to ask questions, share your baking successes, and stay updated on all the delicious new recipes from Sugar & Soul! You can request to join our group HERE.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram and tag #sugarandsoulco so we can see all the wonderful recipes YOU create from this site! You can also Subscribe to our Newsletter to ensure you never miss out on a delicious recipe again!
This post was originally published in August 2015 and was updated in August 2019 with new photos and slight recipe adjustments.
Brownie S’mores Skillet Dip
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter melted
- 4 oz. dark or milk chocolate chopped or chips
- 18-24 marshmallows halved
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F and grease an 8 or 10-inch cast iron skillet with butter.
-
In a medium bowl, combine cocoa powder, brown sugar, flour, salt, and chocolate chips.
-
Add the eggs and vanilla and mix well, slowly following with the melted butter.
-
Pour the brownie batter into the skillet, spreading out evenly with a rubber spatula.
-
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the brownie is slightly firm on top.
-
Remove from oven and sprinkle the chopped chocolate over the top of the brownie, then place marshmallows cut side down on the chocolate.
-
Broil until marshmallows are toasted as desired, keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn, coloring will happen fast.
-
Remove from oven and serve warm with graham crackers.
Notes
- Nutritional Information is an estimate and does not include graham crackers.
- Mini marshmallows could also be used in this recipe, just do a single layer of them on the top of the brownie.
- Adapted from Satori Design for Living.
Nutrition
Did You Make This Recipe?
Don’t forget to share it with me on Instagram @sugarandsoulco and follow on Tiktok @sugarandsoulco and Pinterest @sugarandsoulco for more!
Pin Recipe
Share Recipe