S’mores. They are an American classic and a favorite childhood tradition. What’s summer without these simple and delectable little treats?
I went camping once. In my almost 30 years of life, I went one time in 6th grade. That was plenty enough. The outdoors don’t really agree with me. I can’t deal with bugs and insects. I do not find sleeping bags the least bit comfortable. And I much prefer the luxuries of bathrooms with running hot water. As a result, I had to make most of my s’mores in the microwave. Unless my parents were there to supervise, there was no way I would be able to roast my marshmallows over an open flame, even if it meant the flame from a gas stove. It wasn’t until my teens when I frequently partook in bonfires by the beach, that I was finally able to make real, authentic campfire s’mores.
traditional s’mores are great, but ice cream makes it better
This is an ice cream version of the beloved treat. It includes all the same components as traditional s’mores with the addition of vanilla ice cream. However, feel free to customize your s’mores. Try a slather of peanut butter, opt for Rocky Road ice cream, or dip the finished ice cream sandwich in some melted chocolate! It’s all up to you. These ice cream sandwiches can be made ahead of time, making them great for parties and entertaining. Although these indoor s’mores require just a tad bit more work than the simple outdoor version, trust me when I say, they are well worth the freezing time.
Start by lining an 8-inch square pan with plastic wrap. Line the bottom of the pan with a layer of graham crackers. Toast some mini marshmallows in the oven on the broil setting or use a kitchen torch. Let the marshmallows cool slightly while you chop some milk chocolate. Add the marshmallows and chocolate to bowl of slightly softened vanilla ice cream. Fold to combine and distribute the ingredients. Then transfer the ice cream mixture into the pan with the graham crackers. Place the remaining crackers on top of the ice cream and pop it in the freezer for a couple of hours until the ice cream has firmed up. Use a sharp knife to cut the giant ice cream sandwich into individual servings.
Prepare to get slightly messy as you eat these. Although, I say, the messier something is, the more delicious it probably is. Its hot outside and ice cream melts. But don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll finish your piece before it gets to that point. Well, at least I did.
three for me, one for you!
S’mores Ice Cream Sandwiches, makes 9
Ingredients:
2 cups mini marshmallows, toasted
2- 1.55 oz Hershey’s Milk Chocolate bars (or chocolate of your choice), roughly chopped
18 graham cracker squares
1 pint vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square pan with plastic wrap, allow some plastic wrap to hang over the sides. Line the bottom of the pan with 9 graham crackers.
2. Move oven rack to top 1/3 of oven. Set oven to broil. Line baking sheet with parchment paper or foil (for easy cleaning). Evenly distribute mini marshmallows on sheet. Place in oven for 10-15 seconds. They will toast in the blink of an eye. Keep a very close eye on the marshmallows. They will BURN in seconds. Let toasted marshmallows cool. Alternatively, toast marshmallows using a kitchen torch.
3. Place pint of ice cream in a large mixing bowl. Add toasted marshmallows and fold to combine. Add chopped chocolate and fold to combine. Make sure marshmallows and chocolate are evenly distributed. Transfer ice cream mixture to graham cracker lined pan. Use the back of a spoon or a mini offset spatula to distribute ice cream in an even layer.
4. Place remaining 9 graham cracker squares over ice cream. Make sure that the top crackers are in line with the bottom crackers. Cover with plastic wrap and gently push down to ensure crackers are attached to the ice cream. Store in freezer for at least 3 hours, or until ice cream has hardened.
5. Use the overhanging plastic wrap to gently lift ice cream sandwiches out of square pan. Remove plastic wrap and transfer sandwich to cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut ice cream sandwiches into 9 individual servings. Place back in freezer for 10-15 minutes before serving, as the ice cream make begin to melt as you are cutting the slices. Serve frozen and enjoy.
I’d like some more s’mores, please!
Maryanne’s Chic Tip: After you have assembled the ice cream sandwiches, make sure you wrap the square pan tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any weird freezer taste or freezer burn. Also, if you want these to freeze faster, place it in the back of the freezer near the fan.
