“Who knew that a little nostalgia could create such a warm, cozy feeling?” As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of toasted marshmallows wafted through the air, taking me back to summer nights spent around the campfire. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Gooey S’mores Rolls—a delightful twist on the classic treat that’s not only quick and easy but also an absolute crowd-pleaser! With soft, pillowy dough enveloping a rich chocolate filling and crunchy graham cracker crumbs, these rolls are set to satisfy those late-night cravings or impress at your next gathering. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself, the combination of flavors and textures is sure to become a favorite in your home. Ready to embark on a deliciously gooey adventure? Let’s get started!
Why are Gooey S’mores Rolls irresistible?
Gooey, Decadent Delight: The moment you sink your teeth into these rolls, you’re greeted with a warm, chocolatey explosion that’s pure bliss.
Nostalgic Charm: These rolls capture the essence of childhood summer nights, making them an instant favorite for all ages.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and bake time, you can whip up this delightful dessert without breaking a sweat, just like a batch of Soft Cardamom Rolls.
Customizable Options: Whether you want to add nuts, swap chocolate types, or even make mini rolls, the variations are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings, these gooey rolls will have your friends and family begging for the recipe! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ll have everyone raving about your culinary genius.
Gooey S’mores Rolls Ingredients
• Get ready to indulge in this quick, easy homemade dessert!
For the Dough:
- Milk – Provides moisture and structure; whole milk is best, but low-fat or non-dairy alternatives work if lukewarm.
- Water – Adds hydration; ensure it’s lukewarm (around 98°F to 105°F).
- Instant Yeast – Acts as the leavening agent; substitute with active dry yeast if proofing.
- Granulated Sugar – Boosts sweetness and activates yeast; essential for flavor in your Gooey S’mores Rolls.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the dough; crucial for shaping the rolls.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use melted for even distribution.
- Salt – Enhances flavor, balancing the sweetness.
For the Filling:
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Provides deep chocolate flavor; ensure it’s unsweetened for the best taste.
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Contributes creaminess, allowing for a smooth filling texture.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Delivers a rich chocolate experience; swap with dark or milk chocolate if desired.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs – Adds texture and flavor contrast; finely crush for maximum distribution.
For the Meringue Topping:
- Egg Whites – Provides stability; use at room temperature for better volume.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; essential for the meringue’s structure.
- Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes egg whites; helps prevent overbeating.
- Salt – Enhances meringue flavor.
- Vanilla Extract – Acts as a flavoring agent in both filling and meringue.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gooey S’mores Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a stand mixer, combine 1 cup of lukewarm milk and 1/2 cup of lukewarm water with 2 teaspoons of instant yeast and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Mix in 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Knead the mixture for 6-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 15 minutes in a warm area to rise slightly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a medium saucepan over low to medium heat, whisk together 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream, 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, a splash of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until the mixture is well combined and smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before folding in 1/2 cup of graham cracker crumbs.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
On a floured surface, roll the dough out into a rectangle approximately 10” x 16”. Brush the top of the dough with 3 tablespoons of melted butter, ensuring it covers evenly. Next, spread the chocolate filling across the surface, then sprinkle additional graham cracker crumbs on top. Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log shape, pinching the seams closed. Slice the log into 8-10 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased baking pan.
Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the oven has reached the right temperature, bake the assembled Gooey S’mores Rolls for 25-28 minutes, or until they appear golden brown and puffed up. After baking, let the rolls cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before adding the meringue to avoid melting the topping.
Step 5: Create Marshmallow Meringue
Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Whisk together 3 egg whites and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is warm and the sugar has dissolved. Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer and beat on high until stiff peaks form. Add 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, continuing to beat until glossy and thick.
Step 6: Finish the Rolls
Spread the marshmallow meringue generously over the top of each cooled roll. Using a kitchen torch or the broiler in your oven, gently toast the meringue until it is golden brown, being careful to monitor closely to avoid burning. Let the meringue cool slightly before serving, allowing it to set while you marvel at your delicious Gooey S’mores Rolls!
Storage Tips for Gooey S’mores Rolls
- Room Temperature: Enjoy rolls at room temperature for up to 2 hours for the best taste and texture. Don’t let them sit out too long to preserve their gooey goodness!
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Gooey S’mores Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for another indulgent treat!
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain their best quality for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy your rolls again, reheat in a warm oven (about 350°F) for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. You may want to add a touch of melted butter to enhance the gooey filling!
Make Ahead Options
These Gooey S’mores Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavors with ease! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply complete steps 1 and 2, then cover each component tightly and refrigerate. To ensure the dough maintains its quality, allow it to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the rolls and follow steps 4 through 6 as normal. This way, you save time on busy weekdays without sacrificing that delicious freshly baked taste! Enjoy your effortless indulgence with these make-ahead treats!
Expert Tips for Gooey S’mores Rolls
- Yeast Temperature: Keep liquids lukewarm (98°F to 105°F) to ensure proper yeast activation; too hot will kill the yeast, leading to dense rolls.
- Cool Before Meringue: Allow the baked rolls to cool for about 10 minutes before adding the meringue; this step helps maintain their shape and prevents melting.
- Gentle Filling Mixing: Stir the filling mixture gently to avoid clumps; a smooth chocolate filling is essential for that gooey texture in your final Gooey S’mores Rolls.
- Toasting Meringue: Watch the meringue closely while toasting; it can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it as it caramelizes to a perfect golden brown.
What to Serve with Gooey S’mores Rolls
These delightful treats are perfect for creating a memorable meal that delights every palate and brings smiles to everyone’s face.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy contrast elevates the sweet warmth of the rolls, creating a heavenly dessert experience.
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Chocolate Sauce: A rich drizzle over the rolls intensifies the chocolaty goodness—perfect for chocolate lovers seeking an extra treat!
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a burst of freshness that cuts through the sweetness, creating a balanced flavor profile.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds a delightful texture that complements the gooey chocolate filling beautifully.
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Nutty Walnut Topping: Sprinkle crushed walnuts on top of the rolls for added crunch and a nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience.
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Coffee or Hot Chocolate: A warm beverage like velvety hot chocolate or a rich cup of coffee pairs perfectly, enhancing the gooey experience with cozy warmth.
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S’mores-inspired Cheesecake: Serving a slice alongside these rolls pays homage to the classic treat while providing a unique twist.
Enjoy these pairings that will make your Gooey S’mores Rolls a delightful centerpiece to your gathering!
Gooey S’mores Rolls Variations
Feel free to sprinkle a little creativity into your Gooey S’mores Rolls and make them your own!
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Nutty Delight: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with peanut butter chips for a nutty flavor that will surprise your taste buds. The combination of gooey chocolate and rich peanut butter creates an irresistible indulgence.
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Crunchy Texture: Add crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling for added crunch. This delightful twist elevates the texture, making each bite a symphony of flavors.
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Alternative Sweeteners: Use coconut sugar or honey instead of granulated sugar for a unique sweetness. This swap can enhance the richness of the rolls, giving them a warm, caramel-like flavor.
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Extract Twists: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or orange for unique tastes. A hint of almond extract pairs beautifully with chocolate, while orange adds a refreshing zing.
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Mini Rolls: Create bite-sized treats by forming smaller rolls or using a muffin tin. Perfect for parties or snacking, these mini delights will have everyone reaching for seconds!
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Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for warmth and a kick of flavor. This unexpected heat will tantalize the palate and keep your guests guessing!
Want more delicious recipes to inspire you? Check out these fantastic treats like Cheesy Pepperoni Rolls or dive into the sweet layers of Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls. There’s no limit to the delightful variations you can create!
Gooey S’mores Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for Gooey S’mores Rolls?
Absolutely! For the dough, use whole milk and ensure the water is lukewarm, ideally between 98°F to 105°F, to properly activate the instant yeast. Look for chocolate chips that are semi-sweet for a balanced sweetness, and be certain the cocoa powder is unsweetened for the richest flavor. When choosing graham crackers, opt for finely crushed versions to better integrate into the filling.
How should I store leftover Gooey S’mores Rolls?
Very! To store your delicious rolls, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If you plan to enjoy them later, refrigerate them for up to 3 days—just make sure they are sealed well to keep them fresh and gooey!
Can I freeze Gooey S’mores Rolls?
Of course! To freeze, allow the rolls to cool completely and then lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or until heated through.
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising as expected, check the temperature of your liquids; they have to be just right (98°F to 105°F) to activate the yeast. Also, ensure your yeast is fresh and active. If your dough still won’t rise, try placing it in a warm, draft-free area—sometimes the kitchen can be a bit chilly! That warmth can make all the difference.
Are there any dietary considerations for Gooey S’mores Rolls?
Absolutely! If you’re making these rolls for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for lactose-free options, and there are dairy-free chocolate chips available if needed. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary needs!
Can I customize the filling for my Gooey S’mores Rolls?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely customize the filling. Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate or dark chocolate to adjust sweetness. Adding crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts adds a nice crunch, while peanut butter chips can introduce a nutty flavor twist. Just keep in mind that adding more ingredients may adjust the overall consistency, so balance accordingly.
Gooey S’mores Rolls: Your New Favorite Easy Dessert
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine 1 cup of lukewarm milk, 1/2 cup of lukewarm water, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar in a stand mixer. Mix in 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Knead for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for 15 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream, 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, a splash of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt over low to medium heat until smooth. Cool slightly and fold in 1/2 cup of graham cracker crumbs.
- Roll the dough into a 10” x 16” rectangle. Brush with 3 tablespoons of melted butter, spread the chocolate filling, and sprinkle additional graham cracker crumbs. Roll into a log, slice into 8-10 pieces, and arrange in a greased baking pan.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 25-28 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Set up a double boiler and whisk together 3 egg whites and 1 cup of granulated sugar until warm. Beat until stiff peaks form, then add 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until glossy.
- Spread meringue over the cooled rolls and toast lightly under a kitchen torch or broiler until golden brown. Let set before serving.