If you’re thinking the image of a s’more cookout is a group of cherub-faced Boy Scouts gathered around a crackling fire in a Norman Rockwell painting, you’re pretty close to reality. According to many reports, s’mores first appeared in cookbooks in the early 1920s. Commonly called “graham cracker sandwiches” back then, they were already popular with both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, whose recipe books included the instructions for the “Some More” dessert.
Fast forward to the 1950s when “S’Mores” officially made their appearance in “Betty Crocker’s Cook Book for Boys and Girls.” Good luck finding the original list of ingredients unless you have a copy of it. What you can find, however, is an easier way to prepare these sweet treats. Here are several great s’mores making kits that can work indoors and outdoors.
Flameless heater
More than one epic s’mores roasting session has been ruined by the fight to build a fire – or bugs landing in your perfectly toasted marshmallows. This kit from Nostalgia – so aptly named – takes a more “fondue” type approach to the experience. A “Lazy Susan” setup organizes your chocolate, graham crackers and marshmallows, while an electric flameless heater handles the cooking duties.
Ready in 30 seconds
This looks like it’s a tool straight out of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. (We just need the Oompa Loompas to sing a song about it.) If you can make nachos in a microwave, you can make s’mores too. Just fill the water reservoir, assemble graham crackers, chocolate and marshmallow on the tray and heat for 30 seconds. When you’re full, just clean it in the dishwasher.
As good as the real thing
If you think microwaving or electric heaters don’t provide a realistic enough s’mores experience, this could be the kit you’re looking for. It uses Sterno heat fuel for cooking, but also includes a metal screen to keep the roasting safe for those of all ages. A serving tray and two stainless steel roasting forks are also included. (For the ingredients, better hit the grocery!)
Locks treats in place
Technically, this s’more maker from Smore to Love can be used indoors using a regular oven or even a toaster oven. But we think it’s a genius invention for outdoors, where it will fit perfectly on your barbecue grill. Make up to six treats at a time by locking each s’more into an individual basket. Place a piece of aluminum foil underneath to catch any marshmallowy drippings, and in about five minutes, you’re ready to chow down. Clean it quickly with simple dish soap and sponge.
Steve Spears is editor of Florida Travel & Life, an online brand that inspires active, affluent travelers, providing them with insider information on discovering the best of Florida. Informative and engaging, the website showcases travel destinations, arts and cultural venues, vibrant dining scenes, recreational activities, the great outdoors and the revitalized real-estate market. He is based in Orlando and counts St. Augustine, Key West and the Gulf Beaches among his favorite destinations in the state.
