S’mores Hot Chocolate + Charity Water E-Cookbook

Bring the joy of campfire treats into your kitchen with this rich and creamy S’mores Hot Chocolate. Featuring a decadent homemade hot cocoa base, a graham cracker-lined mug, and toasted marshmallows on top, this recipe is a winter indulgence you won’t want to miss. It’s more than just a drink—it’s a dessert in a mug that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

S’mores Hot Chocolate blends all the nostalgic flavors of the classic treat—chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows—into a warm and cozy beverage. It’s vegan-friendly, easy to make, and perfect for cold nights, holiday gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and special. The toasted marshmallow topping and graham cracker rim take this hot chocolate from simple to show-stopping in just minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Milk (any kind; dairy-free for vegan)

• Water (or use more milk for extra creaminess)

• Cocoa powder

• Light chocolate syrup

• Sugar

• Non-bitter stevia (optional; or more sugar to taste)

• Salt

• Graham crackers, crushed (for lining the mug)

• Marshmallows (vegan if needed)

Directions

1. Prepare Mugs: Rub a marshmallow around the rim of each mug to make it sticky, then dip the rims into crushed graham crackers until well coated. Optionally, sprinkle some graham cracker crumbs inside the mug.

2. Make Hot Chocolate: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk and water. Heat until warmed through but not boiling, about 5 minutes.

3. Add Flavor: Whisk in cocoa powder, chocolate syrup, sugar, stevia (if using), and a pinch of salt until smooth and fully combined.

4. Assemble: Pour hot chocolate into the prepared mugs. Top each with about ¼ cup of marshmallows.

5. Toast Marshmallows: Place mugs on a baking sheet and broil in the oven (second rack from the top) on low for 30–60 seconds, watching closely to avoid burning.

6. Serve: Carefully remove mugs from the oven using a towel or oven mitt. Optionally, drizzle with chocolate syrup and extra graham cracker crumbs before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 mugs
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Boozy S’mores: Add a shot of Kahlua, Baileys, or bourbon to each mug for an adult version.

• White Chocolate Twist: Use white chocolate syrup instead of regular chocolate for a lighter, creamy version.

• Spicy Hot Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a warming kick.

• Mint Chocolate: Add a drop of peppermint extract or use mint marshmallows for a fresh twist.

• Caramel S’mores: Swap out the chocolate syrup for caramel and drizzle extra on top.

• Cookie Butter Rim: Use cookie butter instead of marshmallow to stick the graham cracker crumbs to the mug.

• Campfire Style: Use smoked salt or a tiny bit of liquid smoke to mimic the outdoor campfire flavor.

• Nutella Hot Chocolate: Add a spoonful of Nutella to the hot chocolate for an even richer taste.

• Frozen Version: Blend with ice and top with whipped cream and marshmallows for a summer-friendly treat.

• Mocha S’mores: Stir in a shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee for a s’mores mocha vibe.

Storage/Reheating

This drink is best enjoyed fresh, especially with the toasted marshmallow topping. If needed, you can store the hot chocolate (without marshmallows) in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, then add fresh toppings before serving. Avoid storing with marshmallows, as they will melt and lose their texture.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use a plant-based milk, vegan chocolate syrup, and vegan marshmallows to keep the recipe entirely dairy-free and vegan.

What type of milk works best?

Any milk will work. For a creamy consistency, whole milk or oat milk are great options. Almond and soy milk also work well.

Can I skip the chocolate syrup?

Yes, you can either replace it with melted chocolate chips or add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder and a bit more sugar.

How do I prevent the marshmallows from burning?

Keep your eyes on the oven while broiling—marshmallows can brown in just 30–60 seconds. Place the rack on the second-highest setting and broil on low.

What if I don’t have an oven?

You can toast the marshmallows using a kitchen torch or skip the toasting step entirely—they’ll still melt nicely in the hot chocolate.

Can I use hot chocolate mix instead of making it from scratch?

Absolutely. Just prepare your favorite mix and add the graham cracker rim and marshmallow toppings for the full s’mores experience.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be. Use gluten-free graham crackers and ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How sweet is this recipe?

It’s moderately sweet, but you can easily adjust by reducing or increasing the sugar and syrup to taste.

Can I double or triple the recipe?

Yes, just multiply the ingredients accordingly and heat in a larger saucepan. Prepare the mugs the same way and serve immediately.

What’s the best way to crush graham crackers?

Place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or pulse in a food processor until fine crumbs form.

Conclusion

S’mores Hot Chocolate is everything you love about the classic fireside treat—reimagined as a rich, creamy beverage. With toasted marshmallows, a graham cracker rim, and a decadent cocoa base, it’s the ultimate comfort drink for chilly days, movie nights, or festive gatherings. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is bound to become a favorite for both kids and adults alike.