Toasted S’mores Tarts are the perfect bite-sized treat, bringing all the joy of a campfire right into your kitchen. These mini dessert recipes are simple to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: You can use pre-made crumbs or crush whole graham crackers yourself.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for best results.
- Milk Chocolate Chips: Semisweet chocolate chips work well too.
- Mini Marshmallows: Regular-sized marshmallows cut into smaller pieces are also an option.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 mini tarts
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250 calories
- Tools Needed: Mini muffin tin, mixing bowls, small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Muffin Tin
Lightly spray a 12-cup mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray. This will help your mini dessert recipes release easily. Set it aside for now.
2. Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix everything until the crumbs are evenly moistened. This forms the delicious base of your tarts.
3. Press the Crust into Molds
Divide the graham cracker mixture evenly among the 12 muffin cups. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to press the crumbs firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of each cup, creating a shell.
4. Bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crusts for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. This helps them hold their shape. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
While the crusts are cooling, combine the milk chocolate chips and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat, or in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Fill the Tart Shells
Spoon about one tablespoon of the chocolate ganache into each pre-baked graham cracker crust. Spread it evenly to create a rich chocolate layer.
7. Add the Marshmallow Topping
Top each chocolate-filled tart with a generous layer of mini marshmallows. Make sure they are piled high for that classic s’mores look.
8. Broil to Toast Marshmallows
Return the tarts to the oven and broil on high for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully. The marshmallows should become golden brown and slightly toasted. Be very careful, as they can burn quickly.
9. Cool and Serve
Let the Toasted S’mores Tarts cool in the muffin tin for about 10-15 minutes before carefully removing them. Serve warm for the best experience, enjoying these delightful mini dessert recipes.
Variation Ideas:
- Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet ganache.
- Peanut Butter: Add a dollop of peanut butter on top of the chocolate layer before adding marshmallows.
- Spiced Crust: Mix a pinch of cinnamon into the graham cracker crust mixture.
- White Chocolate: Try a white chocolate ganache for a different flavor profile.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Toasted S’mores Tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For best results, gently reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or a low oven until the marshmallows are slightly soft again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you make these tarts ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the crusts and chocolate ganache ahead of time. Store them separately, then assemble and toast the marshmallows just before serving.
Q: What if you don’t have a mini muffin tin?
A: You can use a regular muffin tin, but you will get fewer, larger tarts and may need to adjust baking times.
Q: How do you prevent the marshmallows from burning under the broiler?
A: Watch them very closely. The transition from golden to burnt is quick. Keep the oven door ajar and pull them out as soon as they reach your desired toastiness.
Q: Can you use homemade marshmallows?
A: Absolutely! Homemade marshmallows can add an extra special touch to these mini dessert recipes.
Q: Are these tarts freezer-friendly?
A: It’s best not to freeze these tarts, as the texture of the marshmallows can change after thawing. Enjoy them fresh!