I snapped this late at night during a Girl Scout campfire event — excuse the low light, but the evening was a lot of fun. My co-leader introduced a simple, delicious twist on a classic summer treat, and I couldn’t wait to share it.
First, a quick confession: I prefer my marshmallows thoroughly charred for s’mores. If you’re the same, you know that a deeply blackened exterior and a gooey center make for the best bite. How do you like your marshmallows?
Peanut Butter Cup S’mores: A Small Change, Big Flavor
Most people assume s’mores require a chocolate bar, graham crackers, and a toasted marshmallow. The twist we tried was swapping the chocolate bar for a peanut butter cup. That simple substitution elevates the flavor profile with creamy peanut butter, melty chocolate, and the familiar crunch of graham crackers.
Assembling peanut butter cup s’mores is straightforward: place a peanut butter cup on a graham cracker, top it with your roasted marshmallow, and gently press with a second graham cracker to create a warm, handheld treat. The peanut butter cup softens from the heat of the marshmallow, blending the sweet and salty elements for an indulgent result.
How to Roast Marshmallows for the Best S’mores
- Choose your heat source carefully — steady coals produce more even toasting than roaring flames.
- Use a long, clean skewer or roasting stick to keep a safe distance from the fire.
- Rotate the marshmallow slowly to avoid burning the interior; if you prefer a very dark exterior, hold it a bit closer but watch closely so it doesn’t burn through.
- For a molten center without a completely charred exterior, position the marshmallow over the coals and move it back and forth until it becomes soft and pillowy.
Variations and Serving Ideas
If you enjoy experimenting, try these simple variations while keeping the peanut butter cup as the centerpiece:
- Use crunchy instead of creamy peanut butter cups for added texture.
- Add a banana slice for a fruity contrast that pairs well with peanut butter.
- Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on the peanut butter cup before adding the marshmallow to enhance the sweet-savory balance.
- Swap graham crackers for chocolate cookies or digestive biscuits for a different bite.
Safety and Campfire Etiquette
When roasting marshmallows with kids or a group, always prioritize safety: keep a bucket of water or sand nearby, supervise children closely, and teach safe distance and handling of skewers. Respect the campfire site by keeping the area tidy and fully extinguishing the fire when you’re finished.
This peanut butter cup s’mores twist is a simple change with impressive results — creamy, gooey, and deeply satisfying. If you’re planning a campfire or backyard get-together this weekend, consider giving this version a try. And don’t forget to enter the giveaway to win a $100 visa debit card — the entry period ends on Sunday.