S’mores, short for “some more,” are a popular campfire treat in the United States, consisting of marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers. National S’mores Day is celebrated in the United States on August 10th each year, dedicated to this beloved treat. It’s a day for people to come together and enjoy s’mores around a campfire or even make them indoors using various methods. It is a cherished symbol of summer, camping, and outdoor activities. Here’s how to make s’mores both over a campfire and using an oven or microwave:
Ingredients:
- Graham crackers (8 whole crackers)
- Marshmallows (8 large marshmallows)
- Chocolate bars (4 pieces, approximately 1.5 ounces each)
Instructions for Campfire S’mores:
- Prepare the Fire:
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- Start a campfire and allow it to burn down to hot embers with a steady, glowing flame. You’ll need a safe and controlled fire source.
- Skewer the Marshmallows:
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- Attach a marshmallow to the end of a long, sturdy stick or skewer.
- Toast the Marshmallows:
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- Hold the marshmallow over the campfire, rotating it slowly, until it turns golden brown and begins to melt on the inside. Be careful not to let it catch fire; you want a gentle toasting. It usually takes a minute or so.
- Assemble the S’mores:
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- Break a graham cracker in half to create two squares.
- Place a piece of chocolate on one of the graham cracker squares.
- Slide the toasted marshmallow onto the chocolate.
- Top the marshmallow with the other graham cracker square, pressing down gently to allow the heat from the marshmallow to melt the chocolate.
- Let it sit for a moment to allow the chocolate to melt slightly.
- Enjoy:
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- Carefully remove the stick or skewer, and your s’more is ready to enjoy!
Instructions for Oven or Microwave S’mores:
- Prepare the Oven or Microwave:
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- If using an oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). If using a microwave, you won’t need to preheat.
- Assemble the S’mores:
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- On a baking sheet, place half of the graham crackers. Top each cracker with a piece of chocolate.
- Microwave Method (for Microwave):
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- Place a marshmallow on top of each chocolate-topped graham cracker.
- Microwave the s’mores for about 10-15 seconds, or until the marshmallows puff up. Be cautious as they can expand quickly.
- Oven Method (for Oven):
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- Place the baking sheet with the assembled s’mores in the preheated oven for about 3-5 minutes or until the marshmallows are soft and slightly toasted.
- Finish Assembling:
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- Remove the s’mores from the microwave or oven.
- Top each marshmallow with another graham cracker square, pressing down gently to create a sandwich.
- Enjoy:
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- Allow them to cool briefly before enjoying your oven or microwave s’mores!
S’mores are a delightful combination of sweet, gooey marshmallows, melty chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers—a beloved treat for gatherings around a campfire or even at home using your oven or microwave.
