Description
Craving the nostalgic, campfire-inspired decadence of a s’mores ice cream sandwich cake but looking for a warm, cozy twist? Say hello to Slow Cooker S’mores Dessert Casserole! This indulgent recipe reimagines the frozen layered cake as a spoonable, slow-cooked treat, featuring a soft, graham-cracker-infused base swirled with marshmallow cream and chocolate, studded with mini marshmallows, and topped with a toasted marshmallow and chocolate drizzle. The slow cooker makes this dessert effortless, melding the flavors into a warm, gooey delight that’s perfect for scooping into bowls and sharing.
Ingredients
For the S’mores Base
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All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups): Forms the cake-like structure.
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Substitution: Gluten-free flour blend or whole wheat flour (texture may vary).
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Granulated Sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the base.
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Substitution: Coconut sugar or maple syrup (reduce to ⅓ cup).
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Crushed Graham Crackers (1 cup, about 8 sheets): Infuses s’mores flavor.
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Substitution: Digestive biscuits or shortbread crumbs.
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Baking Powder (1 tsp): Ensures a light texture.
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Substitution: ¼ tsp baking soda + ½ tsp cream of tartar.
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Salt (¼ tsp): Balances sweetness.
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Substitution: Omit if using salted butter.
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Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted): Provides rich flavor.
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Substitution: Vegan butter or coconut oil.
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Milk (½ cup): Moistens the batter.
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Substitution: Plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat) or water.
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Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances flavor.
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Substitution: Almond extract or omit.
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Mini Marshmallows (1 ½ cups, divided): Adds gooey texture.
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Substitution: Marshmallow fluff (¾ cup, adjust sweetness).
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Milk Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Provides melty chocolate flavor.
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Substitution: Hershey’s bar pieces, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate chips.
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For the Marshmallow Swirl
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Marshmallow Cream (½ cup): Creates a gooey, sweet layer.
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Substitution: Melted marshmallows (½ cup mini marshmallows + 1 tbsp water, heated).
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Whipped Topping (1 cup, thawed): Lightens the swirl.
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Substitution: Homemade whipped cream (1 cup heavy cream, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, whipped).
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For the Topping
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Whipped Topping (1 cup, thawed): Adds a creamy finish.
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Substitution: Same as above.
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Crushed Graham Crackers (½ cup, about 3 sheets): Provides crunch.
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Substitution: Same as above.
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Milk Chocolate Chips (½ cup): Adds chocolatey garnish.
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Substitution: Same as above.
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Mini Marshmallows (½ cup): Enhances s’mores vibe.
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Substitution: Same as above.
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Why They’re Important: The graham crackers and marshmallow cream deliver the signature s’mores flavor, while chocolate chips add rich, melty decadence. The whipped topping provides a creamy contrast, and the crunchy toppings evoke the campfire experience, making each spoonful a nostalgic delight.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the S’mores Base
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In a food processor or zip-top bag, crush 8 graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs (1 cup). Set aside ½ cup for topping.
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In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 cup crushed graham crackers, 1 tsp baking powder, and ¼ tsp salt until well combined.
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In a separate bowl, mix ½ cup melted unsalted butter, ½ cup milk, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Add to the dry ingredients and stir until a thick, cake-like batter forms.
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Fold in 1 cup mini marshmallows and 1 cup milk chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
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Tip: Crush graham crackers finely for even flavor. Mix batter gently to avoid overmixing, ensuring a tender texture. Fold marshmallows and chocolate chips lightly to maintain texture.
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Step 2: Prepare the Marshmallow Swirl
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In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup marshmallow cream and 1 cup thawed whipped topping. Mix until smooth and fully blended.
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Set aside or refrigerate if not using immediately.
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Tip: Warm marshmallow cream slightly (10 seconds in microwave) for easier mixing. Fold gently to keep the swirl light and fluffy.
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Step 3: Layer in the Slow Cooker
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Lightly grease a 4-6 quart slow cooker insert with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking.
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Spread half the s’mores base batter evenly across the bottom of the slow cooker with a spatula.
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Spoon dollops of the marshmallow swirl over the batter, covering about half the surface, creating a marbled effect. Do not stir; the layers will meld during cooking.
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Spread the remaining s’mores batter over the marshmallow swirl, smoothing gently to cover.
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Tip: Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup. Drop marshmallow swirl in small portions for a swirled effect. Spread top batter gently to maintain layers.
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Step 4: Slow Cook
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Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, until the base is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
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Check doneness at the 2-hour mark; if the top looks too wet, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
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Tip: Place a paper towel under the lid to catch condensation and prevent a soggy surface. Avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain heat. Cooking times vary by slow cooker model.
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Step 5: Prepare the Topping
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If desired, toast ½ cup mini marshmallows for garnish: Spread marshmallows on a baking sheet and broil on high for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. Alternatively, use a kitchen torch. Set aside.
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Crush 3 graham cracker sheets into coarse crumbs (½ cup) for topping.
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Tip: Toast marshmallows just before serving for best texture. Store untoasted marshmallows and graham crumbs in airtight containers if prepping ahead.
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Step 6: Assemble and Serve
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Turn off the slow cooker and let the dessert cool for 5-10 minutes to set slightly, making it easier to scoop.
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Scoop the warm s’mores casserole into 8-10 bowls or dessert cups (about ½ cup per serving), ensuring each portion has a mix of graham-cracker base, marshmallow swirl, and chocolate chips.
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Top each serving with a dollop of whipped topping (about 2 tbsp). Sprinkle with 1 tbsp crushed graham crackers, 1 tbsp milk chocolate chips, and a few toasted or untoasted mini marshmallows.
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Serve warm for a gooey, campfire-inspired experience. Pair with hot chocolate, coffee, or a dessert liqueur (like Kahlúa) for a cozy vibe.
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Tip: Swirl whipped topping artfully for a polished look. Serve in wide bowls to showcase the gooey layers and crunchy toppings. Offer extra graham crumbs or chocolate chips on the side for customization.
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