Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey, chocolatey, and marshmallow-laden delight that instantly transports you back to cozy campfire nights, even if you’re enjoying it right from your kitchen. These S’mores Cookie Cups offer just that – a magical, easy-to-make treat that brings the beloved flavors of s’mores to your fingertips, any time of year. Crafted with an incredible simplicity of just three core ingredients, this recipe transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Say goodbye to sticky fingers from roasting marshmallows over an open flame and hello to perfectly portioned, irresistible cookie cups bursting with the classic taste you adore, elevated with a rich Nutella twist!
Irresistible 3-Ingredient S’mores Cookie Cups: Your Quick & Easy Year-Round Treat!
There’s an undeniable charm to s’mores – that perfect symphony of toasted marshmallow, melted chocolate, and crisp graham cracker. It’s a combination that evokes feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and simple joy. As a lifelong fan of these iconic campfire treats, I’ve always loved finding new and creative ways to enjoy their distinctive flavor profile. These S’mores Cookie Cups are not just another s’mores-inspired dessert; they are a revelation in simplicity and taste. Using only three readily available ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delightful cups in what feels like no time at all, making them an ideal choice for last-minute cravings, impromptu gatherings, or a sweet escape on a weeknight.
My unique twist for these cookie cups involves swapping traditional chocolate bars for the luscious creaminess of Nutella. This hazelnut chocolate spread adds an unparalleled depth of flavor and an incredibly smooth texture that perfectly complements the soft cookie base and the airy marshmallow topping. The result is a more sophisticated, yet equally comforting, s’mores experience that will undoubtedly become a staple in your recipe collection. If you’re a s’mores aficionado, or simply seeking an effortlessly delicious dessert that impresses with minimal effort, then this S’mores Cookie Cups recipe with its delightful Nutella filling is precisely what you need to try next!
The Enduring Charm of S’mores: A Beloved Classic
Before we dive deeper into the delightful simplicity of these cookie cups, let’s take a moment to appreciate the origin of s’mores. The term “s’mores” is a contraction of “some more,” a testament to their irresistible nature. While their exact origin is debated, the first recorded recipe for a similar treat called “Graham Cracker Sandwich” appeared in the 1927 publication “Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts.” The recipe described the combination of roasted marshmallows and chocolate bars sandwiched between graham crackers. Since then, s’mores have become synonymous with campfires, outdoor adventures, and a quintessential American treat enjoyed by generations.
What makes the classic s’more so universally adored? It’s the harmonious interplay of textures and flavors: the crisp snap of the graham cracker, the rich, melting sweetness of the chocolate, and the warm, gooey, slightly caramelized marshmallow. It’s a dessert that’s comforting, satisfying, and evokes a sense of shared experience. Our S’mores Cookie Cups capture this beloved essence, transforming it into a convenient, mess-free, and equally enchanting bite-sized form. You get all the nostalgic flavors without the need for a roaring fire, making them accessible for any occasion, from a summer BBQ to a cozy winter evening in.
Frequently Asked Questions About S’mores Cookie Cups
No worries at all! Many brands offer refrigerated sugar cookie dough in 16-ounce packages, which typically contain 12 individual cookies. If this is the case, simply use one cookie per muffin cup instead of two. The baking time might slightly vary, so keep an eye on them to ensure they’re golden brown and set around the edges.
Absolutely! If you have a tried-and-true sugar cookie dough recipe that you love, feel free to use it. The key is to ensure you use roughly the same amount of dough per muffin cup as you would with the store-bought variety. We recommend weighing your dough or visually portioning it to ensure consistent sizing for even baking and a perfect cookie cup shape. A good starting point would be about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of dough per cup, pressing it gently to form a base.
Yes, definitely! While sugar cookie dough provides a neutral base that lets the Nutella and marshmallow shine, you can experiment with other flavors to create exciting variations. Chocolate chip cookie dough would add another layer of chocolatey goodness, while snickerdoodle dough could introduce a warm, cinnamon-sugar twist. For those who crave an even more intense chocolate experience, a pre-made chocolate cookie dough would be a fantastic choice, especially if you’re a true chocoholic.
Nutella is a popular brand of chocolate hazelnut spread, known for its rich, creamy texture and distinct nutty flavor. It’s a staple in many pantries worldwide and can typically be found in the breakfast aisle or alongside other nut butters and jams in most grocery stores. Many stores also offer their own private-label chocolate hazelnut spreads, which work just as well in this recipe. If you’re not a fan of hazelnut or prefer a different chocolate flavor, you can certainly use a regular chocolate spread, melted milk chocolate, or even dark chocolate ganache for a richer taste. Just ensure it’s spreadable at room temperature or slightly warmed.
For this recipe, any brand of marshmallow creme (sometimes called marshmallow fluff) will work perfectly. I often use the Jet-Puffed brand because it’s widely available and consistently delivers excellent results. Most grocery stores carry their own store brands, which are usually just as good and often more budget-friendly. You’ll typically find it in the baking aisle, near the marshmallows or baking ingredients. You’ll need about 7 ounces for this recipe, which is a standard small jar size.
Absolutely! If Nutella isn’t your preference, or if you simply want a more traditional s’mores flavor, you can easily substitute it with regular chocolate. You could use a tablespoon of melted milk chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, or even a pre-made chocolate spread. For a true campfire feel, try placing a square of your favorite chocolate bar into the cookie cup after it’s baked and slightly cooled, allowing it to melt beautifully before adding the marshmallow creme.
These delightful cookie cups are best enjoyed fresh and slightly warm, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. While they will still be delicious, the marshmallow creme might lose some of its initial fluffiness over time. We do not recommend freezing these cookie cups, as the texture of the marshmallow creme and cookie can change unfavorably upon thawing.
Just 3 Simple Ingredients for S’mores Perfection
The beauty of these S’mores Cookie Cups lies in their minimal ingredient list. You don’t need a pantry full of specialty items or complex components. Just three core ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a dessert that tastes far more elaborate than its humble origins suggest. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that authentic, comforting s’mores experience:
- Refrigerated Sugar Cookie Dough: This is your foundational element, providing a perfectly soft and slightly chewy base for your cookie cups. Using pre-made dough significantly cuts down on prep time, making this recipe incredibly quick and convenient.
- Hazelnut Chocolate Spread (Nutella): Our star filling! Nutella brings a rich, creamy, and subtly nutty chocolate flavor that pairs wonderfully with marshmallow. It’s a luxurious upgrade from a plain chocolate bar, adding a gourmet touch without extra effort.
- Marshmallow Creme (or Marshmallow Fluff): This sweet, sticky, and fluffy topping is essential for any s’mores creation. It provides that iconic gooey texture and sweet finish, and it browns beautifully for that toasted marshmallow look and taste.
Gathering these few items is often the longest part of the process, which truly speaks to the ease of this recipe. So, let’s get ready to transform these simple components into an unforgettable dessert!
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your S’mores Cookie Cups
Step 1: Prepare Your Muffin Pan and Cookie Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking. Next, lightly spray a standard 12-cup muffin pan with a nonstick cooking spray. This crucial step prevents your cookie cups from sticking and ensures easy removal. For each muffin cup, place two individual portions of the refrigerated sugar cookie dough. Using the back of a tablespoon, gently press down in the center of each cookie dough ball to create a shallow depression. This initial indent will help form the cup shape during baking and create a perfect cavity for your fillings.
Step 2: First Bake and Reshape
Place the muffin pan with the prepared cookie dough into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes. The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Once baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven. While the cookie cups are still hot and pliable, use the bottom of a shot glass or another similar-sized, small round object (like a spice jar) to create a deeper indent in the center of each cookie. This will further define the cup shape and ensure you have plenty of room for your delicious fillings.
Step 3: Add Marshmallow Creme and Final Bake
Now it’s time for the marshmallow goodness! Carefully add one generous tablespoon of marshmallow creme into the indent of each warm cookie cup. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy; it will melt and spread beautifully. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes. During this short bake, the marshmallow creme will puff up and achieve that characteristic gooey texture. Keep a close eye on them, as marshmallow can brown quickly. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cookie cups to cool in the pan just enough to firm up slightly, typically for about 5-10 minutes. This makes them easier to handle.
Step 4: Remove from Pan and Optional Toasting
Once slightly cooled and firm, gently run the blade of a butter knife around the edges of each cookie cup to loosen them from the muffin pan. Carefully remove each cup and transfer them to a wire cooling rack or a sheet of parchment paper to cool completely. For an authentic campfire touch, and if you have one, use a kitchen butane torch or a long-neck lighter to lightly char the surface of the marshmallow creme. This creates that delicious toasted marshmallow flavor and golden-brown appearance, adding an extra layer of texture and taste that truly elevates the s’mores experience.
Step 5: Drizzle with Nutella and Serve
For the final flourish, take your jar of Nutella (you can warm it slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if it’s too firm for easier piping). Scoop the Nutella into a sandwich bag, pushing it into one corner. Snip off a tiny bit of the corner with scissors to create a small opening. Drizzle or swirl the Nutella artfully over the marshmallow creme on each cookie cup. This adds a beautiful visual appeal and a final burst of creamy chocolate hazelnut flavor. Serve your S’mores Cookie Cups warm for the ultimate gooey experience, or at room temperature for a slightly firmer, but equally delightful, treat. Enjoy the compliments!
Variations & Customization: Make Them Your Own!
One of the best things about a simple recipe like these S’mores Cookie Cups is how easily you can customize them to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
- Cookie Dough Adventures: While sugar cookie dough is classic, consider peanut butter cookie dough for a peanut butter cup s’mores fusion, or even brownie batter for an extra rich, fudgy base.
- Chocolate Choices: Instead of Nutella, try using a dark chocolate spread for a more intense flavor, white chocolate spread for a sweeter profile, or even a caramel sauce for a chewy, decadent addition. A small square of your favorite chocolate bar pressed into the hot cookie cup before the marshmallow creme is also a wonderful option.
- Marshmallow Magic: If you don’t have marshmallow creme, you can use mini marshmallows! Fill the baked cookie cups with mini marshmallows, then return to the oven for a couple of minutes until they’re puffed and golden. You can still torch them for extra char.
- Topping Extravaganza: After drizzling with Nutella, sprinkle your cookie cups with crushed graham cracker crumbs for added texture, mini chocolate chips, sprinkles for a festive look, or even a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Seasonal Flavors: For a fall twist, add a tiny dollop of pumpkin spice to the cookie dough or marshmallow creme. In the summer, a sprinkle of sea salt can beautifully balance the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings
These S’mores Cookie Cups are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some ideas to make them even more special:
- Warm & Gooey: The ultimate way to enjoy these is fresh out of the oven, or slightly warmed in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The melted Nutella and gooey marshmallow are simply divine.
- With Ice Cream: Serve a warm cookie cup alongside a scoop of vanilla bean or chocolate ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold, soft and creamy, is an absolute dream.
- Coffee & Hot Chocolate Companion: These cookie cups are the perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of coffee, tea, or, even better, a steaming mug of hot chocolate. It’s like a cozy hug in a dessert!
- Party Dessert: Arrange them on a platter for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. Their individual portions make them easy to serve and enjoy.
- Kid-Friendly Treat: Kids absolutely adore s’mores, and these cookie cups are less messy than traditional ones, making them a fantastic after-school snack or party favor.
Tips for S’mores Cookie Cup Success
While this recipe is incredibly straightforward, a few tips can help ensure your S’mores Cookie Cups turn out perfectly every time:
- Don’t Overbake the Cookie Base: The initial bake for the cookie cups is just long enough for them to set around the edges while remaining soft in the center. Overbaking will result in a dry, crumbly base. Remember, they’ll go back in the oven with the marshmallow.
- Indent While Hot: The key to forming a good cup is to create the second indent with a shot glass while the cookies are still warm from the first bake. They are most pliable at this stage.
- Watch the Marshmallow: Marshmallow creme can toast very quickly under heat. Keep a close eye on your cookie cups during the final 5-minute bake to prevent the marshmallow from burning. If using a torch, move it constantly and keep a safe distance.
- Cool Slightly Before Removal: Allowing the cookie cups to cool for a few minutes in the muffin pan helps them firm up, making them much easier to remove without breaking.
- Nutella Temperature: If your Nutella is too stiff to pipe easily, microwave it in an open jar for 10-15 seconds, stirring well. This will make it smooth and drippy, perfect for swirling.
Why You’ll Love This S’mores Cookie Cup Recipe
In conclusion, these S’mores Cookie Cups are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration of simplicity, nostalgia, and pure indulgence. Their 3-ingredient convenience means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the delicious results. The innovative Nutella filling adds a sophisticated twist to the classic s’mores flavor, creating a creamy, hazelnut-infused delight that’s utterly addictive. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete novice, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and guarantees a crowd-pleasing outcome.
From their ability to conjure up memories of starry nights around a crackling fire to their role as a delightful treat for any occasion, these S’mores Cookie Cups are a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. So go ahead, gather your three ingredients, and prepare to embark on a sweet adventure that will leave everyone asking for “some more!”
Craving More Sweet Treats?
- Turtle Cookie Cups
- Nutella Puppy Chow
- S’mores Cupcakes
- No-Bake Gooey S’mores Treats
- Strawberry Cookie Cups
- Berry Cookie Cups
- Pecan Tassies
S’mores Cookie Cups
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Ingredients
For the cookie cups:
- 16 ounce package refrigerated sugar cookie dough (24 count)
For the filling:
- 13 ounce jar of chocolate hazelnut spread (Nutella)
- 7 ounce jar of Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Creme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 12 cup muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add 2 cookie’s worth of dough to each cup of the pan. Use the back of a tablespoon to create a depression in the center of each cookie.
- Bake the cookie cups for 10 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven and use a shot glass (or other similar sized object) to make an indent into the cookie cup while they’re still hot.
- Add one tablespoon of marshmallow creme to each cookie cup.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven and allow cookie cups to cool just enough to become firm.
- Gently remove each cookie cup using the blade of a butter knife. Place on a cooling rack or parchment paper.
- Optional: use a butane torch or a long neck lighter to char the surface of the marshmallow creme.
- Fill a sandwich bag with Nutella spread and snip the corner.
- Swirl Nutella on top of the marshmallow creme and serve.
Notes
- This recipe can easily be doubled for a larger batch.
- If you cannot find a 24-count cookie dough package, a 12-count 16-ounce package will work; simply use one cookie per muffin well.
- Feel free to use either store brand or name brand hazelnut spread and marshmallow cream.
- We do not recommend freezing these cookie cups, as it can affect the texture.
- Experiment with other cookie dough flavors like chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, or chocolate.
- You have the option to make your own sugar cookie dough from scratch if preferred.
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.