If you are ready to elevate your dessert game, this S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls made from a graham cracker-infused dough, filled with luscious melted chocolate, and topped with a billowy toasted meringue that captures the essence of classic s’mores in an irresistible breakfast treat or sweet snack. It is a delightful twist on two beloved comfort foods, blending the warmth of cinnamon rolls with the nostalgic flavors of campfire s’mores for an unforgettable experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three round baking pans placed on a white marbled surface. The top pan is filled with broken, rough-textured light brown cookie pieces with uneven edges. Below it is a second pan containing a deep, smooth layer of dark glossy chocolate spread that fills the pan fully. At the bottom, there is a clear glass cup filled with white milk, smooth and creamy in appearance. A white cloth with black stripes is casually placed next to the glass. The overall lighting is soft and natural, creating a cozy baking scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe uses a handful of simple and familiar ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and a gorgeous golden hue. From the comforting warmth of cinnamon and the crunch of graham crackers in the dough to the rich, gooey chocolate filling and the light, toasty meringue topping, every element works together to create magic.

  • Warm water (110 to 115°F): Activates the yeast perfectly to help your dough rise beautifully.
  • Active dry yeast: The secret agent transforming the dough into fluffy, light rolls.
  • All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives structure and tenderness.
  • Finely crushed graham crackers: Adds that quintessential s’mores crunch and a subtle sweetness right in your dough.
  • Light brown sugar: Brings a natural caramelized sweetness that deepens the flavor.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
  • Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and classic cinnamon roll aroma.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: The rich backbone of your chocolatey filling.
  • Heavy cream: Gives the filling a creamy, smooth texture that melts perfectly.
  • Dark chocolate chips: Provides pockets of molten chocolate in every bite.
  • Granulated sugar: Sweetens both filling and meringue topping while helping with caramelization.
  • Butter (cubed): Adds richness and helps melt the filling into silky goodness.
  • Kosher salt (pinch): Enhances the chocolate filling’s depth.
  • Finely crushed graham cracker crumbs (for filling): Gives a little extra crunch and continuity with the dough.
  • Egg whites: Whipped into a fluffy meringue for a cloud-like topping.
  • Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet fragrance to your meringue layer.
  • Cream of tartar: Stabilizes the egg whites for that perfect glossy peak.

How to Make S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Mix the Dough

Start by proofing the yeast in warm water with a pinch of brown sugar to wake it up until foamy. This step is critical for that airy texture everyone loves in cinnamon rolls. Then, in your stand mixer, combine all the dry ingredients including your crushed graham crackers, which add that unique, toasty note distinctive from the graham cracker dough. Knead the dough until soft and just slightly sticky but not clingy—it should pull away cleanly from the sides. Transfer to an oiled bowl, cover it up, and let it rise in a cozy spot for about an hour until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Filling

While the dough is rising, melt together the cocoa powder, heavy cream, dark chocolate chips, granulated sugar, butter, and a pinch of kosher salt in a saucepan over moderate heat. Stir constantly to ensure it becomes a luscious, smooth mixture without burning. Once off the heat, blend in some crushed graham cracker crumbs for that perfect bit of texture. Then let it fully cool before filling your dough.

Step 3: Assemble and Roll the Cinnamon Rolls

When your dough has doubled in size, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large 15 by 20-inch rectangle. Spread the cooled chocolate filling evenly but carefully leave a border around the edges to prevent spills while rolling. Tightly roll it lengthwise into a log, trimming the ends for neatness, then cut into 12 equal slices. Arrange these in a greased 9×13-inch pan, cover loosely again, and allow them to rise for another half hour, giving you that show-stopping fluffy pull-apart effect after baking.

Step 4: Bake the Rolls to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F, then bake your rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn golden brown and you can practically smell the sweet graham and chocolate combo wafting through your kitchen. Once baked, cool them completely—this stops the filling from running and sets the rolls just right for the final crowning glory.

Step 5: Make the Marshmallow Meringue Topping

Whip up an irresistible topping by gently heating egg whites and sugar over simmering water until the sugar dissolves. Transfer this to a stand mixer, add vanilla and cream of tartar, then whip on increasing speed until you achieve stiff, glossy peaks. This marshmallow-like meringue is what will mimic the toasted top of classic s’mores on your rolls.

Step 6: Top and Toast the Meringue

Dollop generous spoonfuls of meringue on each roll and swirl it in a rustic, inviting way. Then carefully toast the meringue with a kitchen torch until it bubbles and develops golden, slightly charred tips, giving your cinnamon rolls that smoky campfire essence that defines s’mores. Serve immediately and watch everyone swoon over this decadent treat.

How to Serve S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

In a rectangular metal baking pan, there are six warm rolls arranged in two rows of three, each roll showing distinct layers of light brown dough spiraled with dark chocolate. On top of each roll, there is a thick, toasted layer of white meringue with golden brown spots and swirls. The rolls look soft and slightly glossy, with melted chocolate peeking through the dough layers. The pan sits on a white marbled surface next to a white cloth with blue lines, a small round tart pan filled with melted dark chocolate, a metal bowl holding broken golden brown crumbs, and a white lacy plate partially visible at the bottom. In the background, a whisk covered in white meringue rests in a white bowl, with two glasses of milk behind it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of extra crushed graham crackers or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the toasted meringue can really elevate the presentation while adding texture contrast. A light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar can also bring a warmly festive touch that invites everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

This dessert is indulgent enough to shine solo, but pairing it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms it into a full dessert experience. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk serves as the perfect beverage sidekick, balancing richness with refreshing simplicity.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or a brunch spread, arrange the rolls on a wooden board or stacked on a pretty cake stand to highlight their gooey, melty appeal. Wrapping each individual roll in parchment paper tied with twine is an adorable option for gifting or easy grab-and-go treats, making the S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe a show-stopping centerpiece wherever you serve them.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover cinnamon rolls fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the dough soft and the meringue moist without getting sticky.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the rolls (before adding the meringue topping) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake fresh or warm them gently in the oven.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the rolls in a 300°F oven covered loosely with foil for about 10 minutes to warm through without drying. If you want to refresh the toasted meringue look, add fresh meringue and torch again just before serving for that unbeatable finish.

FAQs

Can I make the dough by hand without a mixer?

Absolutely! While a stand mixer makes kneading easier and faster, you can mix and knead the dough by hand on a floured surface until it’s smooth and elastic. It just takes a bit more elbow grease but results in equally delicious rolls.

What can I use if I don’t have a kitchen torch for toasting the meringue?

If you don’t own a kitchen torch, you can place the rolls under your broiler for 1-2 minutes. Watch carefully and rotate the pan to avoid burning as the meringue quickly browns, mimicking the toasted effect quite well.

Is it okay to substitute milk for heavy cream in the filling?

While heavy cream gives the filling its rich, silky texture, using whole milk will still yield a tasty filling but it might be less thick and creamy. If using milk, consider adding a little butter to replicate the richness.

Can I prepare the meringue topping ahead of time?

The meringue is best made fresh and toasted just before serving to maintain its fluffy texture and glossy appearance. However, you can whip it up a couple of hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge, then briefly re-whip by hand before topping your rolls.

How can I make these S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, use plant-based butter and milk substitutes, and replace egg whites with aquafaba for the meringue. The dough and filling adapt well, but keep in mind that the natural chemistry of egg whites is unique, so texture might slightly differ.

Final Thoughts

This S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a glorious celebration of everything we love about cozy, nostalgic sweets reinvented in an exciting way. Every bite melts together the richness of chocolate, the crunch of graham crackers, and the fluffy, toasted meringue topping into one unforgettable treat. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this incredible dessert that’s sure to become a fast favorite in your home.

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S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

S’mores Cinnamon Rolls Recipe


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4 from 75 reviews

  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls

Description

Indulge in these delectable S’mores Cinnamon Rolls featuring a unique graham cracker dough filled with rich melted chocolate and cocoa filling, then topped with a fluffy toasted meringue. Perfectly combining the nostalgic flavors of s’mores with the comforting texture of cinnamon rolls, this American dessert is ideal for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a sweet treat with a twist.


Ingredients

Dough:

  • 1 cup warm water (110 to 115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
  • ¾ cup finely crushed graham crackers
  • ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Filling:

  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream
  • ⅔ cup dark chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon butter, cubed
  • Pinch kosher salt
  • ¼ cup finely crushed graham cracker crumbs (about 2 1/2 sheets)

Topping:

  • 3 large egg whites
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar


Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: In a bowl or measuring cup, combine the warm water, a pinch of the brown sugar, and the active dry yeast. Let it sit until the mixture becomes foamy, about 5 minutes, indicating the yeast is alive and active.
  2. Prepare Dough: In a stand mixer bowl fitted with the dough hook, mix together the all-purpose flour, finely crushed graham crackers, brown sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. Add the yeast mixture and mix on medium speed until a dough starts to form. Increase to high speed and knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough turns soft, slightly sticky, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Add a little more flour if it’s too sticky. Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover loosely with plastic wrap and a damp kitchen towel, and place in a warm spot until it doubles in size, roughly 1 hour.
  3. Make Filling: While the dough rises, combine the unsweetened cocoa powder, heavy cream, dark chocolate chips, granulated sugar, cubed butter, and a pinch of kosher salt in a medium saucepan. Stir constantly over moderate heat until the mixture is smooth and melted through. Transfer to a bowl and let cool completely. Once cooled, stir in the crushed graham cracker crumbs to add texture.
  4. Roll and Fill Dough: When the dough has doubled, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll out into a 15 x 20-inch rectangle. Spread the cooled chocolate filling evenly over the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges to prevent overflow.
  5. Shape Cinnamon Rolls: Roll the dough tightly lengthwise into a log. Trim the ends, then cut into 12 even slices. Place the slices into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spacing them evenly. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and a damp towel, and let rise again for 30 minutes to puff up.
  6. Bake Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20 to 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan.
  7. Prepare Meringue Topping: Combine the egg whites and granulated sugar in a heatproof bowl. Place it over a pot of simmering water ensuring the bowl bottom does not touch the water. Stir frequently until the sugar dissolves, about 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer the mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment. Add the vanilla extract and cream of tartar. Beat on medium speed until firm, then increase to high speed and whip until stiff, glossy peaks form, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
  8. Top and Toast: Spoon generous dollops of meringue onto each cinnamon roll, swirling the topping beautifully. Using a kitchen torch, toast the meringue until browned and slightly caramelized. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. Enjoy your summer-ready s’mores cinnamon rolls!

Notes

  • Ensure water temperature for yeast activation is between 110°F and 115°F for optimal yeast proofing.
  • If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can broil the meringue in the oven briefly but watch closely to avoid burning.
  • The dough may be slightly sticky; adding flour gradually will help without making it tough.
  • Allow rolls to cool completely before adding the meringue topping to prevent melting.
  • Use dark chocolate chips for a richer chocolate flavor that complements the graham cracker notes.
  • Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best freshness.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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