Best chocolate for smores

by | Mar 30, 2023 | Chocolate Recipes

Follow CocoTerra on Social Media

It’s officially camping and hiking season! That means it’s also time for s’mores and creating great memories with friends and family by roasting marshmallows over a campfire and enjoying some spring outdoor activities.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about s’mores. From the best ingredients to use when making s’mores to tips and tricks for roasting the perfect marshmallow.   We have all of your s’more needs covered. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, s’mores are sure to add a touch of nostalgia and fun to your outdoor adventures. So gather around the campfire, grab your marshmallow roasting stick, and get ready to indulge in one of the most beloved treats of all time.

What are S’mores?

S’mores are a traditional campfire treat popular in the United States and Canada. They consist of a roasted marshmallow and a piece of chocolate sandwiched between two graham crackers. The marshmallow is roasted over an open flame until it is warm, gooey, and soft. It is then placed on top of a graham cracker half, followed by a piece of chocolate and another cracker half to create a melty, gooey sandwich-like treat.

Why S’mores are so popular

S’mores are a popular choice for group gatherings, whether it’s around a campfire or at a backyard barbecue. They are easy to make and share, using three ingredients that travel well in a backpack.  They also include chocolate, so that’s reason enough for them to be popular.  Overall, they are a fun campfire experience that makes them the perfect excuse for a social gathering and conversation.  How many times have you sat around and debated what makes for a perfect marshmallow roast?

Who invented smores?

The exact origin of s’mores is not entirely clear, but the first published recipe for “Some More” appears in the 1927 publication “Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts” by Loretta Scott Crew. The treat was likely popular among Girl Scouts before this publication, though.

Although this combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers can be traced back to the early 1900s, the graham cracker goes back even further.  It was invented by Presbyterian minister Sylvester Graham in the early 1800s as part of his health-focused dietary movement.

While the true origin of s’mores remains a mystery, it is likely that campers created the treat by combining different ingredients over time.

Why are they called s’mores?

S’mores are a delicious treat that is named for their irresistible taste. The name “s’mores” is actually a contraction of the phrase “some more” which was first published in “Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts”.

chocolate smores types

What’s the best chocolate for smores?

When it comes to making s’mores, the best chocolate is a matter of personal preference. However, there are a few types of chocolate that are popular choices for s’mores:

  • Milk chocolate is a classic choice for s’mores. It has a sweet and creamy flavor that complements marshmallows and graham crackers.
  • Dark chocolate is a must for those who prefer a richer and less sweet flavor. It provides a slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the marshmallows and graham crackers.
  • Chocolate bars are a popular form factor for making s’mores because they are pre-portioned and easy to break apart for assembly. 
  • Chocolate chips can be a convenient option for making s’mores because they are small and easy to distribute evenly across the graham cracker, but make sure you don’t tip it over and lose your treats.

Ultimately, the best chocolate for s’mores is the one that you enjoy the most. Experiment with different types of chocolate to find your favorite combination of flavors.

best marshmallows for smores

Best marshmallows for s’mores

The best marshmallows for s’mores are the ones that melt nicely without catching on fire too quickly.  Experiment with different brands and types of marshmallows to find your perfect combination of flavor and texture. The most popular brands for s’mores include Jet-Puffed, Campfire, and Kraft marshmallows.

It’s also important to consider natural vs. artificial ingredients when choosing marshmallows. Some marshmallows are made with all-natural ingredients, while others contain artificial flavors and preservatives.  Make sure to read the label and check that the ingredients are to your liking and dietary needs (Kosher, vegan, etc.).

​​Size matters, so choose marshmallows that are almost the same size as the graham crackers you’ll be using. This will help ensure that your graham crackers don’t end up with a big hole in the middle and that your marshmallows melt evenly onto them.  You can also double up your marshmallows on your stick but they can be a little more challenging to remove.

How to toast your marshmallows is a major source of debate.  Some people prefer soft and fluffy marshmallows that are golden brown, while others like them fully toasted and crispy.   There’s also the “let-them-catch-fire” technique which requires strong lungs to blow out.  Experiment and see what you like best.

smores open fire

How to make Roasted S’mores  (Open Flame)

Ingredients

  • 1 graham cracker broken into two equal-size square halves
  • 1 cracker-sized piece of milk chocolate
  • 1 marshmallow

Method 

  • Arrange chocolate on one of the graham crackers, and set it aside within arm’s reach.
  • Skewer the marshmallow on a stick or any flame-proof implement that will allow you to keep a safe distance from the fire. 
  • Over an open flame (campfire or fireplace), roast your marshmallow turning regularly until you achieve a golden-brown exterior.  Continue for several more minutes for a darker roast.
  • Carefully use the graham crackers to sandwich the marshmallow and slide it off the stick.  Getting the assistance of a friend can be quite helpful in this last step.  

No campfire? No problem. You can make s’mores in the comfort of your own kitchen with a small portable smores maker that is available at many stores. And while you’ll want to stay with the classic recipe – graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows – you also have the freedom to mix things up a bit. From smores cookies to s’mores popsicles and everything in between, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this treat year-round.

We hope you enjoyed this article. For more great recipes, check out the rest of our CocoTerra blog. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact us through our social media channels.

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact us through our social media channels.  We are @cocoterra_co on Instagram and Pinterest and @cocoterraco on Twitter and Facebook.

Did you sign up for our newsletter?

The CocoTerra newsletter is sent monthly and includes a summary of the best from the blog and more chocolate goodness and insights.

What equipmentIs used to harvest cacao pods?

What equipmentIs used to harvest cacao pods?

Cacao pod harvesting relies on specialized tools to ensure high quality cocoa beans and maintain tree health and productivity. Traditionally, each pod is cut from the cacao tree by hand, one at a time. Different types of cutters are used depending on the size and...