Name: Gooey S’mores Rolls: The Ultimate Dessert to Satisfy Cravings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 58 min
Ingredients: 1 cup milk (lukewarm, whole or non-dairy); 1/4 cup water (lukewarm); 2 teaspoons instant yeast (or active dry yeast); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 3 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 pinch salt; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (fresh); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark/milk chocolate); 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 pinch salt; 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (for mixing in); 2 large egg whites (room temperature); 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

The moment I stepped into the kitchen, I was whisked away to summer nights roasting marshmallows by the campfire, my heart warming at the memory of gooey s’mores melting together in perfect harmony. Get ready to recreate that comforting nostalgia with my Quick & Easy Gooey S’mores Rolls! These delightful rolls, swathed in fluffy dough and filled with rich chocolate and crunchy graham cracker crumbs, can be prepped in under an hour, making them the ideal treat for any gathering or cozy late-night craving. Plus, their customizable nature means you can mix and match fillings and toppings to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. Are you ready to dive into this deliciously nostalgic adventure?

Why are These S’mores Rolls So Irresistible?

Nostalgic Comfort: These rolls bring back childhood memories of camping and cozy evenings around the fire, merging classic flavors in one mouthwatering bite.
Quick to Prepare: Whip these up in under an hour, making them perfect for spontaneous gatherings or when a sweet craving strikes.
Customizable Fun: Switch up the fillings with alternatives like peanut butter chips or mix in nuts for a delightful crunch. The possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch them disappear—everyone loves a sweet treat that brings joy!
Light and Fluffy: The combination of soft dough and gooey chocolate offers an unforgettable texture that makes these rolls a must-try for dessert lovers.

Gooey S’mores Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough

Milk – Provides moisture and structure; whole milk is ideal, but low-fat or non-dairy alternatives can be used.
Water – Adds hydration to the dough; ensure it’s lukewarm (98°F to 105°F) for optimal yeast activation.
Instant Yeast – Acts as the leavening agent for the rolls; can replace with active dry yeast if preferred but requires proofing.
Granulated Sugar – Boosts sweetness and activates the yeast; alternatives like coconut sugar or honey can reduce sugar content.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the backbone of the dough structure; for gluten-free options, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend containing xanthan gum.
Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; melting ensures even distribution in the dough.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor, balancing sweetness; just a pinch is necessary for an effective balance.

For the Chocolate Filling

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Delivers intense chocolate flavor; ensure it’s unsweetened for best results.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Contributes to a creamy filling texture; always use fresh cream for a rich flavor.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Provides a rich chocolate experience; dark or milk chocolate can be used based on preference.
Graham Cracker Crumbs – Contributes texture and flavor contrast; fine crushing maximizes distribution in the rolls.

For the Meringue Topping

Egg Whites (room temperature) – Provides stability for the meringue topping; ensure they’re at room temperature for best volume.
Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes the egg whites; a small amount is enough to achieve desired stiffness.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a harmonious flavor in both filling and meringue; other flavored extracts can be used for a twist.

This ingredient list is perfect for creating delectable Gooey S’mores Rolls that promise to satisfy your sweet cravings with joy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gooey 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 teaspoons of instant yeast, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix on low until combined, then knead on medium speed for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let the dough rest in a warm place for 15 minutes until it puffs slightly.

Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough is resting, prepare the chocolate filling. In a saucepan over low heat, combine 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream, 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until smooth and homogenous, then remove from heat and mix in 1/2 cup of graham cracker crumbs. Allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has rested, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a 10” x 16” rectangle. Brush the surface with melted butter, then spread the chocolate filling evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with additional graham cracker crumbs for extra texture, then tightly roll the dough from one end to the other. Slice the roll into 8-10 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, bake the assembled gooey s’mores rolls for 25-28 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top and puffed up. The rolls should be soft yet firm to the touch. After baking, allow them to cool slightly in the pan for about 10 minutes before adding the meringue topping.

Step 5: Prepare Meringue
In a heatproof bowl set over a double boiler, whisk together the egg whites and 1/2 cup of sugar until warmed and the sugar has dissolved, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and beat the mixture with a hand mixer on high until stiff peaks form, adding 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined for a stable meringue.

Step 6: Finish the Rolls
Spread the prepared meringue generously over the cooled gooey s’mores rolls, ensuring to cover them completely. Using a kitchen torch or the broiler in your oven, lightly toast the meringue until golden brown, watching carefully to avoid burning. Allow the rolls to set for a minute before serving for that perfect gooey experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Quick and Easy Gooey S’mores Rolls are a perfect candidate for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix and refrigerate them separately. To maintain quality, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out, and store the filling in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy these rolls, just let the dough come to room temperature before rolling them out and assembling. Bake as directed, add the meringue topping, and toast it until golden for a scrumptious dessert that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Gooey S’mores Rolls?

Treat your senses to an unforgettable dessert experience that’s perfect for any occasion!

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm rolls, enhancing their gooey texture.
Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries adds a tart brightness that complements the chocolate, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Elevate the indulgence by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the top—every bite becomes an enchanting chocolate experience!
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess, making each bite even more delightful.
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkling toasted coconut on top introduces a nutty crunch that pairs excellently with the flavors of s’mores.
Cold Brewed Coffee: Enjoy these rolls with a chilled cup of coffee; the rich flavors of coffee enhance the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.
Caramel Sauce: For those with a sweet tooth, adding warm caramel sauce provides an extra layer of decadence and richness!
Mint Tea: The light herbal notes of mint tea create a refreshing palate cleanse after the rich flavors of the rolls.
Marshmallow Fluff: For a s’mores party, serve with marshmallow fluff on the side—an ultra-fun, extra gooey topping to dip into!
Chocolate Milkshake: Go all-in with a chocolate milkshake; the cool, creamy flavors will send you back to those nostalgic campfire nights!

Expert Tips for Gooey S’mores Rolls

Lukewarm Liquids: Always ensure your liquids are lukewarm to properly activate the yeast; anything too hot will kill it, ruining the dough’s rise.
Gently Cook Filling: Stir the chocolate filling over low heat gently to avoid clumps, ensuring a smoothly integrated gooey center for your rolls.
Cool Before Topping: Allow baked rolls to cool slightly before spreading the meringue, preventing it from melting into the warm rolls.
Watch the Toasting: While toasting the meringue, keep a close eye on it to achieve a beautiful golden brown without burning.
Mix in Mix-ins: Don’t hesitate to customize with add-ins like crushed nuts or flavored extracts to elevate your Gooey S’mores Rolls experience!

How to Store and Freeze Gooey S’mores Rolls

Fridge: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, storing for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, restoring their delightful gooey texture.

Best Enjoyed Fresh: For optimal taste and texture, enjoy your Gooey S’mores Rolls soon after baking, as they’re at their absolute best when fresh!

Gooey S’mores Rolls Customization Options

Let your creativity run wild and make these delicious rolls truly yours, bursting with flavors that excite the senses!

Peanut Butter Swirl: Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for creamy peanut butter chips, creating a delectable nutty twist. This variation will delight those who crave that extra richness.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for a satisfying crunch that complements the gooey chocolate. It adds a wonderful texture contrast, making each bite an adventure!
Cinnamon Delight: Sprinkle in a hint of cinnamon into your chocolate filling for a warm spice note. This subtle addition brings a cozy element to your rolls, reminiscent of autumn gatherings.
Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chocolate filling. It’s a bold flavor twist that will surprise and delight adventurous taste buds!
Caramel Drizzle: Before adding the meringue, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the baked rolls for an indulgent layer of sweetness. It enhances the gooey goodness and makes a beautiful presentation.
Mini Roll Fun: Use a muffin tin to create individual-sized gooey s’mores rolls that are perfect for parties. These bite-sized treats are just the right amount for sharing!
Flavorful Extracts: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or orange for the filling, introducing an exciting twist that brightens up the classic recipe. Each option opens a new world of flavors!

For more inspiration, you might enjoy trying out variations with Spring Rolls Bold or explore delightful flavors in Pan Mallorca Rolls. Happy baking!

Gooey S’mores Rolls Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select the ingredients for my Gooey S’mores Rolls?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose ripe ingredients where applicable. For milk and cream, use fresh and whole options if possible, as they provide the richest flavors. When picking chocolate chips, go for high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate to ensure maximum gooeyness. Lastly, make sure your graham crackers are crispy and fresh for the perfect crunch in your rolls!

How should I store leftover Gooey S’mores Rolls?
To keep your rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. In the freezer, they will stay delightful for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I freeze Gooey S’mores Rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, ensure your rolls have cooled completely. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough isn’t rising, start by checking the temperature of your liquids; they should be lukewarm (between 98°F to 105°F) to safely activate the yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh, as expired yeast may not work effectively. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast! Also, let the dough rest in a warm place, free from drafts—this can greatly aid the rising process.

Are there any dietary considerations for making Gooey S’mores Rolls?
Very! For those with gluten sensitivities, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum in place of all-purpose flour. If dairy is a concern, swap the milk and cream with almond milk or coconut cream, adjusting fat content if necessary when substituting. Always double-check your chocolate and graham cracker ingredients for any potential allergens, especially if serving to others.