Name: Gooey S'mores Rolls: Your New Favorite Homemade Dessert
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 58 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Milk (lukewarm); 1/4 cup Water (lukewarm); 2 1/4 tsp Instant Yeast (1 packet); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 3 3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour; 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (divided); 1 tsp Salt; 1/8 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder; 1/8 cup Heavy Whipping Cream; 1/3 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips; 1/4 cup Graham Cracker Crumbs; 2 large Egg Whites (room temperature); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/8 tsp Cream of Tartar; 1/8 tsp Salt; 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract (divided)

The sweet aroma of toasted marshmallows wafting through the kitchen instantly transports me back to warm summer evenings spent around a campfire. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Quick and Easy Homemade S’mores Rolls—a delightful twist on the classic treat that’s perfect for satisfying those late-night dessert cravings. With their pillowy soft dough enveloping a rich, gooey chocolate filling complemented by crunchy graham cracker crumbs, these rolls are not only indulgent but incredibly simple to whip up in less than an hour. Imagine treating yourself and your loved ones to this cozy dessert that captures all the nostalgia of s’mores without the mess of a campfire. Interested in how to bring this comforting classic to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love These S’mores Rolls

Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, these rolls come together quickly, making them perfect for any baker.

Irresistibly Gooey: The rich chocolate filling combined with fluffy dough creates a decadent experience that melts in your mouth.

Nostalgic Flavors: Evoking the classic campfire treat, each bite offers the familiar taste of toasted marshmallows and chocolate, bringing back warm memories.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, everyone will love these delightful rolls, turning any night into a special occasion.

Time-Saving: Ready in under an hour, they make for a perfect last-minute dessert or sweet craving fix. For a twist on classic flavors, consider pairing them with your favorite Chicken Bacon Rolls for a unique meal experience!

S’mores Rolls Ingredients

• Get ready to bake up something special!

For the Dough
Milk (1 cup, lukewarm) – Provides moisture and structure; lukewarm helps activate yeast effectively.
Water (1/4 cup, lukewarm) – Adds hydration; ensure it’s around 98°F to 105°F.
Instant Yeast (2 1/4 tsp, 1 packet) – Acts as the leavening agent; can substitute with active dry yeast (requires proofing).
Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup) – Boosts sweetness and activates yeast; it’s essential for flavor balance.
All-Purpose Flour (3 3/4 cup) – Forms the structure of the dough; crucial for shaping the rolls.
Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp, divided) – Adds richness and moisture; melting ensures even distribution.
Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor; crucial for balancing the sweetness.
For the Filling
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (1/8 cup) – Provides deep chocolate flavor; make sure it’s unsweetened.
Heavy Whipping Cream (1/8 cup) – Contributes creaminess; allows for a smooth filling texture.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (1/3 cup) – Delivers a rich chocolate experience; can swap with dark or milk chocolate if desired.
Graham Cracker Crumbs (1/4 cup) – Adds texture and flavor contrast; finely crush for maximum distribution.
For the Meringue Topping
Egg Whites (2 large, room temperature) – Provides stability in the meringue; room temperature ensures better volume.
Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup) – Adds sweetness and is essential for the structure of the meringue.
Cream of Tartar (1/8 tsp) – Stabilizes egg whites; helps prevent overbeating.
Salt (1/8 tsp) – Enhances meringue flavor; just a tiny amount is needed.
Vanilla Extract (1/2 tsp, divided) – Acts as a flavoring agent; use in both filling and meringue for harmonious flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S’mores Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a stand mixer, combine 1 cup of lukewarm milk, 1/4 cup of lukewarm water, 2 1/4 teaspoons of instant yeast, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 3 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour. Add 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until well combined, then switch to the hook attachment and knead for 6-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl and let it rest for 15 minutes to rise slightly.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a saucepan over low-medium heat, whisk together 1/8 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/8 cup of heavy whipping cream, 1/3 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Add 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined, then remove from heat. Allow the filling to cool before mixing in 1/4 cup of graham cracker crumbs.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 10” x 16” rectangle, ensuring even thickness. Brush the surface with melted butter to add moisture. Evenly spread the cooled chocolate filling over the dough, leaving edges clear for sealing. Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs over the filling, then carefully roll the dough tightly from one long edge to the other. Slice the rolled dough into 8-10 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased baking pan.

Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pan of S’mores Rolls in the preheated oven and bake for 25-28 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and lightly crisp. Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly in the pan for about 10 minutes before adding the meringue topping.

Step 5: Create Marshmallow Meringue
Set up a double boiler with simmering water. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 large room temperature egg whites and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Place the bowl over the simmering water and whisk continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm to the touch. Carefully transfer the mixture to a stand mixer and beat on high speed until stiff peaks form, adding 1/8 teaspoon of cream of tartar, a pinch of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 6: Finish the Rolls
Carefully spread the fluffy meringue on top of the baked S’mores Rolls, covering them fully. Use a kitchen torch or broiler to lightly toast the meringue until golden brown, monitoring closely to prevent burning. The final result will be beautifully toasted S’mores Rolls with a gooey chocolate filling and a fluffy, decadent meringue topping that’s absolutely irresistible.

Storage Tips for S’mores Rolls

Room Temperature: Enjoy S’mores Rolls at room temperature for up to 2 hours after baking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Fridge: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Refrigeration maintains their freshness while preventing excess moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze S’mores Rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your S’mores Rolls again, reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, allowing them to warm through and regain their gooey texture.

What to Serve with S’mores Rolls

Indulging in warm, gooey S’mores Rolls is a delightful experience, and enhancing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert nights even more.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The combination of hot rolls with ice cream creates a blissfully creamy and temperature-contrasting experience. The classic flavor pairs perfectly, balancing the rich chocolate filling.
Fresh Berries: A selection of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries adds a vibrant, tart contrast to the sweetness of your S’mores Rolls. Their juicy freshness also brings an inviting color to your dessert spread.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce over your rolls amplifies the decadent chocolate experience. It creates an indulgent finishing touch that chocolate lovers won’t resist.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream enhances the rolls without overwhelming their flavor. It adds a delightful creaminess that hugs the S’mores Rolls beautifully and balances their rich goodness.
Coffee: A warm cup of freshly brewed coffee complements the sweetness of the rolls while awakening your taste buds. The slight bitterness of the coffee enhances the chocolate, creating a well-rounded dessert pairing.
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkling toasted coconut on top of your rolls introduces a nutty flavor and crunchy texture. It’s a wonderful way to give a tropical twist to your S’mores experience.
Homemade Marshmallow Dip: Extend the s’mores theme with a marshmallow dip for dunking! This sweet, gooey addition enhances the overall flavor and invites a hands-on, interactive dessert experience.
Mint Leaves: A simple garnish of fresh mint leaves adds a refreshing note that cuts through the sweetness. It not only looks beautiful but introduces an unexpected flavor that brightens the palate.

S’mores Rolls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to add a personal touch to these S’mores Rolls and enhance your dessert experience!

Nutty Delight: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips with peanut butter chips for a rich, nutty flavor that takes your rolls to a whole new level. You’ll love the creamy richness they bring!
Crunchy Texture: Incorporate crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts into the filling for an unexpected crunch, adding a delightful contrast to the gooey chocolate and fluffy dough.
Alternative Sweeteners: To make a lower-sugar version, consider using coconut sugar or honey instead of granulated sugar, adjusting the quantities for sweetness preferences.
Extract Twists: Enhance the flavor by using flavored extracts (like almond or orange) instead of vanilla in the dough or meringue. It will elevate your rolls with a unique twist!
Mini Rolls: For bite-sized treats, instead of rolling into a large log, form smaller rolls or use a muffin tin to create individual portions. They’ll be perfect for sharing at gatherings.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling for a warm, spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of chocolate.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce over the rolls before adding the meringue for an indulgent, sweet surprise that complements the traditional flavors.

If you’re looking for even more delightful dishes, don’t forget to check out these Hawaiian-inspired Chicken Bacon Rolls or the savory twist of Italian Sushi Rolls, which could be great companions to your S’mores Rolls!

Tips for the Best S’mores Rolls

Yeast Activation: Use lukewarm milk and water to activate the yeast properly—too hot can kill it. Aim for 98°F to 105°F for the perfect rise!
Gentle Mixing: When preparing the filling, mix on low heat gently. Going too fast can lead to clumps, ruining the smooth, gooey filling you desire in your S’mores Rolls.
Butter Application: Be sure to brush melted butter evenly on the dough before spreading the filling; this helps create a moist roll and enhances flavor.
Correct Cooling Time: Let the baked rolls cool slightly before adding meringue. This prevents it from melting and ensures a beautiful toasted finish!
Room Temperature Egg Whites: Use egg whites at room temperature for the meringue. They whip up better, resulting in a fluffier texture that’s integral to your S’mores Rolls.
Toast Carefully: When toasting the meringue, keep a close eye on it. A few seconds can mean the difference between perfectly golden and burnt meringue!

Make Ahead Options

These S’mores Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the filling is made, then roll the dough and slice the rolls. Place the sliced rolls in a baking pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before heating your oven. This way, they will be just as delicious as if you made them fresh! For the meringue, whip it just before serving for the fluffiest results. Enjoy warm, gooey S’mores Rolls with minimal effort!

S’mores Rolls Recipe FAQs

What type of milk is best for S’mores Rolls?
I recommend using whole milk for its richness, which contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the dough. However, you can use low-fat or non-dairy alternatives if needed; just ensure they are lukewarm when mixing.

How should I store leftover S’mores Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents moisture buildup. For best results, reheat briefly in the microwave or oven before serving for that just-baked warmth.

Can I freeze S’mores Rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, it might be due to inactive yeast. Ensure that your milk and water are lukewarm (98°F to 105°F) but not too hot! If using active dry yeast, make sure to proof it first in warm water with a pinch of sugar. If the dough rises after 15 minutes but isn’t fully doubled, allow more time—sometimes it just needs a little patience.

Can I use gluten-free flour for S’mores Rolls?
Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these rolls gluten-free! Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure. The rolls may not be as fluffy, but they’ll still capture the delightful flavors of this gooey treat.

Is this recipe safe for those with egg allergies?
Since the marshmallow meringue topping uses egg whites, it isn’t safe for those with egg allergies. You might consider using an egg replacer or a store-bought aquafaba meringue option. Just be mindful that the texture may differ slightly but should still be delicious!