No-Bake S’mores Fudge Squares is a sweet, delightful treat that brings back memories of camping trips and cozy bonfire nights. Imagine sitting around a warm fire, roasting marshmallows, and making s’mores with friends and family. That feeling of warmth and happiness is packed into these fudge squares! People love this recipe because it captures the classic flavors of s’mores—chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows—without needing an oven. This dessert is perfect for a hot summer day when you want something sweet but don’t want to heat up your kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
Making No-Bake S’mores Fudge Squares is as easy as pie. Or, maybe I should say, as easy as fudge! This recipe stands out because it does not require baking, which makes it quick and simple to prepare. You don’t need to be a professional baker to whip up this delicious dessert.
The ingredients are basic and easy to find at any grocery store. You probably have some of them in your pantry already! The creamy texture of the fudge combined with the chewy marshmallows will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s a dessert that friends and family can enjoy together, whether for a holiday or a casual movie night at home. Children love helping in the kitchen, and this recipe is perfect for involving them. They can mix ingredients and sprinkle toppings, making it a fun family activity!
How to Make No-Bake S’mores Fudge Squares
When you start making No-Bake S’mores Fudge Squares, you’ll smell the sweet aroma of melting chocolate and the buttery scent filling your kitchen. First, line your baking dish with parchment paper, making it easier to lift the fudge out later.
You’ll melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once it’s melted, you’ll add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. This mixture will create a rich base for your fudge. Don’t be in a rush! Stir everything together gently until combined. The chocolate chips are next. Stir them in and watch as they melt into a smooth and creamy mixture.
After that, you’ll mix in graham cracker crumbs. This makes it thick and fudgy. Then comes the fun part—adding mini marshmallows! Folding them in is like adding little puffs of happiness into your mix.
Pour this wonderfully creamy mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out with a spatula. A sprinkle of chocolate chips, extra marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs on top makes it even more appealing.
Finally, place your creation in the refrigerator to set. Patience is key here; you’ll want to let it chill for at least two hours. Once firm, lifting it out using the parchment paper is easy. Cut it into squares, and it’s ready to serve! It’s a satisfying feeling to see your finished treats gleaming and waiting to be devoured.
Ingredients
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1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- These crumbs give a delicious crunchy base and replicate that classic s’mores flavor. You can use crushed gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.
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1 cup mini marshmallows
- These tiny puffs add a chewy, sweet texture and also give a fun pop of marshmallow flavor. For a healthier option, you could find sugar-free mini marshmallows.
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1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- These chips provide the rich, chocolatey flavor that is essential in s’mores. Dark chocolate chips can be a great alternative if you prefer a richer taste.
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1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- This ingredient helps bind everything together and adds sweetness. Evaporated milk could be used for a lower sugar option, but it won’t be as sweet.
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1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Butter brings everything together and adds a creamy texture. If you want a dairy-free treat, coconut oil can work in its place.
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- This adds a lovely aromatic flavor that enhances the whole dish. You can swap this with almond extract if you’re looking for something different.
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1/2 cup chopped chocolate or chocolate chips for topping
- This is for the visual appeal and adds even more chocolatey goodness on top. Use white chocolate chips for a fun twist.
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Additional mini marshmallows for topping
- These are for decoration and to reinforce that s’mores feel. You can skip this if you want a simpler finish.
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Additional graham cracker crumbs for topping
- Sprinkling on some more crumbs gives a great crunch and mimics the classic s’mores texture.
Directions
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Prepare Your Dish: Start by taking an 8×8 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper, letting some of the paper hang over the sides. This helps you lift the fudge out later.
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Melt the Butter: Add unsalted butter into a medium saucepan. Heat it over low temperature, stirring gently until the butter is completely melted. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
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Mix in Sweetened Condensed Milk and Vanilla: Once melted, take the saucepan off the heat. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until everything is well blended. This will create a smooth and creamy texture.
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Add the Chocolate Chips: Pour in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir continuously until they melt completely into the mixture, creating a beautiful chocolatey blend. This is the secret to a gooey texture!
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Incorporate the Graham Cracker Crumbs: Next, mix in the graham cracker crumbs. You’ll notice that the mixture is getting thicker and holding together. That’s a good sign!
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Fold in Mini Marshmallows: Gently fold in mini marshmallows to the mixture until they are evenly distributed. It will look deliciously tempting at this point!
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Transfer to the Baking Dish: Pour the fudge mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to press it down evenly into the corners and smooth the top. It should look nice and flat.
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Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped chocolate or extra chocolate chips on top, followed by a few mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs. This adds a delightful crunch and makes it look attractive.
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Chill the Fudge: Now comes the hardest part—waiting! Place your dish in the refrigerator for about two hours, or until set and firm. You can check after an hour to see how it’s coming along.
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Lift and Cut: Once set, grab the edges of the parchment paper to lift the fudge out of the dish. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into squares of your desired size.
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Serve: You can serve these delightful treats right away, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Enjoy the smiles it brings!
How to Serve No-Bake S’mores Fudge Squares
No-Bake S’mores Fudge Squares are super versatile. You can present them as a dessert for family gatherings, parties, or picnics. Pair these fudge squares with a glass of cold milk or hot chocolate for a delightful treat.
They are also perfect for kids’ birthday parties, sleepovers, or any casual get-together. You can even serve them alongside a warm, cozy cup of tea during a chilly afternoon. The rich, sweet fudge complements lighter foods, so consider serving it after a light dinner, like grilled chicken or salad.
How to Store No-Bake S’mores Fudge Squares
To store your leftovers, it’s best to keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh for about a week. If you have a lot left, you can freeze them! To freeze, cut the squares and place a piece of parchment paper between each one. This keeps them from sticking together. Wrap the whole container in plastic wrap for extra protection.
When you want to enjoy them again, take the fudge out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes. They’ll soften slightly, and you can enjoy them just like you did when they were fresh!
Tips to Make No-Bake S’mores Fudge Squares
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Chill Time: Make sure to let the fudge chill completely before slicing. This ensures a perfect cut and holds everything together.
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Use a Non-Stick Spray: If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly spray the baking dish with cooking spray to help the fudge release easily.
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Watch the Heat: Always melt your butter and chocolate on low heat. This prevents burning and helps keep everything smooth.
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Gently Fold: When adding the mini marshmallows, be gentle. Overmixing can break them down and turn your fudge brown instead of staying beautiful.
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Custom Sizes: Feel free to cut your squares into different sizes. Smaller squares make for great bite-sized snacks, perfect for parties!
Variation
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Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and a different flavor.
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S’mores Flavor Twist: Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or peanut butter for a flavor twist. It can make a delightful change.
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Dairy-Free Version: Swap the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips if you want a dairy-free treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I make No-Bake S’mores Fudge Squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this fudge ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It’s great for parties because you can make it the day before!
Q: What’s the best way to reheat it?
If your fudge has been in the fridge, you don’t need to reheat it! Simply let it sit at room temperature for a short while before serving. If needed, you can warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes! You can use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even caramel bits for a unique flavor. Just make sure it melts well, and you’ll have a delicious new twist.
Now you are ready to try making No-Bake S’mores Fudge Squares! Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and share with those you love. Happy baking!
Print
No-Bake S’mores Fudge Squares
- Total Time: 120 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful no-bake dessert that captures the classic flavors of s’mores—chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows—in a quick and easy fudge square.
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped chocolate or chocolate chips for topping
- Additional mini marshmallows for topping
- Additional graham cracker crumbs for topping
Instructions
- Prepare Your Dish: Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.
- Mix in Sweetened Condensed Milk and Vanilla: Stir in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Add the Chocolate Chips: Pour in semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir continuously until they melt completely.
- Incorporate the Graham Cracker Crumbs: Mix in the graham cracker crumbs until the mixture thickens.
- Fold in Mini Marshmallows: Gently fold in mini marshmallows until evenly distributed.
- Transfer to the Baking Dish: Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped chocolate, extra mini marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs.
- Chill the Fudge: Place in refrigerator for about two hours or until firm.
- Lift and Cut: Once set, lift out of the dish and slice into squares.
- Serve: Enjoy the squares immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
Feel free to customize the toppings and try different chocolate types for a unique flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: s'mores, fudge, no-bake dessert, easy recipe, summer treat