Description
These Gooey S’mores Rolls are the perfect cozy treat, combining soft, fluffy rolls filled with a rich chocolate and graham cracker filling, topped with a toasted marshmallow-like meringue. Inspired by the classic s’mores, this dessert brings together chocolate, graham cracker crumbs, and a light, sweetened meringue topping for an irresistible indulgence served fresh from the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup lukewarm water (98°F-105°F)
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing dough)
- Extra graham cracker crumbs for sprinkling
Meringue Topping
- 4 large egg whites, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a stand mixer bowl, combine lukewarm milk (1/2 cup), warm water (1/3 cup), instant yeast (2 teaspoons), and 1/4 cup sugar. Let it activate for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is alive and ready.
- Make dough: Gradually add 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, melted unsalted butter (1/3 cup), and 1/2 teaspoon salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead with the mixer or by hand for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Rest dough: Cover the dough and allow it to rest for 15 minutes. This brief rest helps gluten develop and relaxes the dough for easier rolling.
- Prepare filling: In a saucepan over low-medium heat, whisk together unsweetened cocoa powder (1/2 cup), heavy whipping cream (1/2 cup), semi-sweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup), and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is smooth and melted.
- Finish filling: Remove the filling from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt for depth of flavor. Fold in 1/2 cup of graham cracker crumbs and let the filling cool slightly before spreading.
- Shape rolls: Roll the rested dough into a 10” x 16” rectangle on a lightly floured surface. Brush the dough with 2 tablespoons melted butter, then evenly spread the cooled chocolate filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Assemble rolls: Sprinkle additional graham cracker crumbs over the filling. Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log into 8-10 equal pieces and arrange them cut-side up in a greased baking pan.
- Bake rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25-28 minutes until they are golden brown on top. Remove and let cool for 10 minutes before adding the topping.
- Make meringue: Set up a double boiler and combine the 4 egg whites with 1 cup granulated sugar. Whisk continuously until the mixture is warm and the sugar has dissolved, creating a thick glossy base.
- Whip meringue: Transfer the warm egg white mixture to a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Beat until stiff peaks form, then add 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Continue beating to stabilize the meringue.
- Top and toast: Spread the prepared meringue evenly over the warm rolls. Place the pan under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully until the meringue is golden and toasted on top. Remove immediately to prevent burning.
Notes
- Using whole milk enriches the dough but can be substituted with 2% milk if preferred.
- Ensure the water and milk are lukewarm to properly activate the yeast; too hot and it might kill it.
- You can substitute graham cracker crumbs with granola cracker crumbs if unavailable, though traditional graham crumbs give the authentic s’mores flavor.
- The meringue topping mimics toasted marshmallow, but be sure to watch it closely under the broiler to avoid burning.
- For best results, serve the rolls slightly warm.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: s'mores rolls, s'mores dessert, chocolate rolls, toasted meringue, homemade rolls, gooey dessert
