Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to express love, and what better way to do that than with a homemade treat? These Valentine’s Day S’mores are not just any dessert; they are crafted with heart-shaped marshmallows and gooey chocolate that melts in your mouth. Imagine the delightful crunch of crispy graham crackers holding sweet, fluffy marshmallows—a delicious way to celebrate love in all its forms.
Whether you are cozying up on the couch with your significant other or surprising the kids with a festive treat, these Valentine’s Day S’mores are sure to bring smiles. With the perfect balance of sweetness and nostalgia, you’ll find yourself digging into these heart-shaped delights time and time again.
Why You'll Love This Valentine’s Day S’mores
- This incredible Valentine’s Day S’mores transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Valentine’s Day S’mores
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Valentine’s Day S’mores:
3 1/2 envelopes unflavored Knox granulated gelatin – key for creating fluffy marshmallows, making them irresistible.
1 cup cold water, divided – used for blooming the gelatin and dissolving sugar.
1/2 cup light corn syrup – keeps the marshmallow gooey while adding sweetness.
2 cups granulated sugar – this sugar adds the necessary sweetness to your marshmallows.
1/4 tsp salt – enhances the sweetness, balancing flavors perfectly.
1 tbsp vanilla extract – contributes a delightful warmth and complexity.
2 tsp meringue powder – optional for added stability in your marshmallows.
2 tbsp warm water – combines with meringue powder if used.
1/4 cup corn starch – prevents marshmallows from sticking together.
1/4 cup powdered sugar – for dusting those adorable marshmallows.
1 3/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour – provides a nutty flavor and wholesome texture in the graham crackers.
1/3 cup all-purpose flour – lightens up the dough for the graham cracker.
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed – adds extra sweetness with a hint of molasses.
3/4 tsp baking powder – helps the graham crackers rise.
1/2 tsp baking soda – works with the acids in brown sugar to add lift.
1/2 tsp salt – balances sweetness in the crackers.
1 tsp cinnamon – lends warm notes that make your graham crackers special.
8 tbsp unsalted butter, chilled, cut into cubes – provides richness and flakiness in your crackers.
2 tbsp milk – adds moisture to your graham cracker dough.
1 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice – a splash of brightness that enhances the flavor.
1/4 cup honey – adds additional sweetness and a hint of floral taste.
1 tsp vanilla extract – complements the flavors with aromatic notes.
10 oz dark chocolate – for dipping, providing a luscious finish to your s’mores.
How to Make Valentine’s Day S’mores
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Valentine’s Day S’mores:
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Grease the bottom and sides of a 13×9 inch baking pan. This is crucial as it helps the marshmallows release easily once set.
Step 2: Bloom the Gelatin
Pour 1/2 cup of cold water into the bowl of a stand mixer and sprinkle gelatin over it. Allow it to stand and bloom for about 5-10 minutes while you prepare the sugar mixture.
Step 3: Make the Sugar Syrup
In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, remaining 1/2 cup cold water, and salt. Heat over low to medium flame, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, increase the heat and bring to a boil without stirring. Keep an eye on it closely!
Step 4: Combine Syrup and Gelatin
Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and let it boil until it reaches 240°F. Immediately remove from heat and pour the syrup into the bloomed gelatin. Stir until completely dissolved, then beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes thick and triples in volume, roughly 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble the Marshmallows
Pour the thick marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a greased spatula. Allow it to set for 5-6 hours or overnight. Don’t rush this part; it’s essential for perfect marshmallows.
Step 6: Make the Graham Crackers
Combine whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In another bowl, mix milk, orange juice, honey, and vanilla. Combine both mixtures to form a dough. Chill for 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Once you have your dough, preheat your oven to 350°F. Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick and cut out heart shapes using your favorite cookie cutter. Make sure to poke holes in the cookies for authentic graham cracker texture.
Bake for 12-14 minutes until they turn golden brown and allow them to cool completely.
Now comes the fun part—assembling your Valentine’s Day S’mores! Sandwich heart-shaped marshmallows between two heart-shaped graham crackers and secure with melted dark chocolate. For a finishing touch, dip half of your assembled s’mores into the chocolate, letting them harden on wax paper.
Celebrate love with these delightful Valentine’s Day S’mores, serve them up, and watch your loved ones light up with joy!
You Must Know About Valentine’s Day S’mores
- This showstopping Valentine’s Day S’mores delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Valentine’s Day S’mores Cooking Process
Start by preparing the marshmallow and graham cracker layers simultaneously. While your marshmallow mix is setting, make the crackers to ensure they bake fresh and can be assembled right away for maximum flavor and texture.
Add Your Touch to Valentine’s Day S’mores
Feel free to swap out the dark chocolate for your favorite milk or white chocolate to cater to different taste buds. You can also experiment by adding sprinkles or flavored extracts for a fun twist on this classic treat.
Storing & Reheating Valentine’s Day S’mores
To keep your Valentine’s Day S’mores fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For best results, enjoy them within a week; you can reheat briefly in the microwave for a melty experience.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Valentine’s Day S’mores
- This professional-quality Valentine’s Day S’mores relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sharing my Valentine’s Day S’mores with friends during a cozy gathering was unforgettable—they were devoured in minutes, and everyone raved about the homemade marshmallows that stole the show.
FAQs About Valentine’s Day S’mores
What is Valentine’s Day S’mores?
Valentine’s Day S’mores are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat, designed specifically for celebrating love. This recipe features heart-shaped homemade marshmallows sandwiched between freshly baked heart-shaped graham crackers, all held together with melted dark chocolate. Ideal for romantic gatherings or festive celebrations, these treats bring a personal touch to your Valentine’s Day festivities, capturing both flavor and creativity in every bite.
How long do Valentine’s Day S’mores last?
When stored properly, Valentine’s Day S’mores can last for about a week. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness and delightful texture. It’s important to enjoy them within this timeframe to experience that perfect blend of chewy marshmallows and crunchy graham crackers. If you have extras, they can be savored later, but try to resist the temptation to let them sit too long.
Can I customize my Valentine’s Day S’mores?
Absolutely! One of the fantastic aspects of Valentine’s Day S’mores is their versatility. You can switch out the dark chocolate for milk or white chocolate based on your personal preference. Additionally, feel free to add flavored extracts, such as almond or mint, or sprinkle colorful decorations on top of the marshmallows to make them more festive. Your creativity can turn this treat into a unique masterpiece.
What makes Valentine’s Day S’mores special?
What sets Valentine’s Day S’mores apart is not just their adorable heart shape but also the homemade components. Crafting your marshmallows and graham crackers creates a deliciously fresh experience that store-bought options can’t replicate. The combination of flavors and textures, along with the love that goes into making them, ensures these treats will be a hit, making any romantic occasion memorable and sweet.
Conclusion for Valentine’s Day S’mores
In summary, Valentine’s Day S’mores bring joy and sweetness to any celebration. With heart-shaped marshmallows, freshly baked graham crackers, and rich chocolate, they create an unforgettable dessert experience. Not only do these treats capture the spirit of love, but they also allow for creative customization. Whether you plan to share them with a special someone or enjoy them at a festive gathering, these Valentine’s Day S’mores are sure to delight.
Delicious Valentine’s Day S’mores with Heart-Shaped Marshmallows
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease the bottom and sides of a 13×9 inch baking pan.
- Pour 1/2 cup of cold water into the bowl of a stand mixer and sprinkle gelatin over it. Let it stand to soften/bloom.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, remaining 1/2 cup cold water, and salt. Heat on low to medium until the sugar dissolves.
- Once dissolved, increase the heat and bring to a boil, avoiding stirring. Clean the sides of the pot with a pastry brush dipped in water as necessary.
- Attach a candy thermometer; once the syrup reaches 240°F, remove from heat and pour the syrup into the bloomed gelatin, stirring until dissolved.
- Beat the mixture on medium speed; once opaque, increase to high and beat until thick and tripled in volume. Add 1 tbsp vanilla extract.
- For optional egg whites, combine meringue powder and warm water, whisk until soft peaks form, then gradually add to the marshmallow mixture.
- Pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a greased spatula. Let set for 5-6 hours or overnight.
- Combine the powdered sugar and corn starch in a bowl for coating.
- Dust a cutting board with the coating mixture, invert the marshmallow slab onto it, and dust the top.
- Using a greased heart cookie cutter, cut out heart shapes from the marshmallows and coat them with the sugar/corn starch mixture.
- For graham crackers, combine whole wheat pastry flour, all purpose flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Work the chilled butter into the flour mixture until it resembles cornmeal.
- In a separate bowl, mix milk, orange juice, honey, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Combine with the dry ingredients to form a dough.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes, then preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness, cut with a heart cutter, and poke holes in the cookies.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden brown. Let cool completely.
- To assemble, sandwich heart marshmallows between two heart graham crackers, securing with melted chocolate.
- Dip half of the heart s'mores into chocolate and allow to harden on wax paper before storing in an airtight container.
