Ultimate PB and J S'mores

This ultimate s'mores recipe transforms the classic campfire treat into a deluxe dessert with rich peanut butter and tangy blueberry jelly. The combination creates an irresistible twist that brings nostalgic flavors into a more sophisticated treat perfect for serving at home.

I created this recipe for my niece's birthday party last summer when rain canceled our backyard campfire plans. The kids went wild for these upgraded s'mores, and now they prefer them to the traditional version.

Ingredients

• Peanut butter: creamy works best for binding the graham crackers together and creates that classic PB&J flavor foundation
• Graham crackers: traditional honey graham crackers provide the perfect crunch and sweetness
• DOVE Dark Chocolate PROMISES: their smooth texture melts perfectly and adds richness that balances the sweet marshmallow
• Large marshmallows: choose fresh ones for the best texture when toasted
• Blueberry jelly: provides a fruity tartness that cuts through the richness, look for a high-quality preserves for best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Graham Cracker Sandwiches:

Spread peanut butter generously across 8 graham cracker halves, ensuring even coverage all the way to the edges. Top with remaining graham crackers to create sandwiches. Place them in the freezer for exactly 5 minutes this quick chill helps the peanut butter firm up just enough for the dipping process without becoming too hard.

Melt the Chocolate:

Unwrap all DOVE chocolates and place them in a microwave-safe bowl that allows room for stirring. Heat in 15-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each interval until completely smooth. This gentle melting preserves the chocolate's silky texture and prevents scorching. The melting usually takes about 45 seconds total.

Chocolate Dip:

Remove graham cracker sandwiches from freezer and dip one half of each sandwich into the melted chocolate. Use a gentle swirling motion to ensure even coating. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate dipped sandwiches for 10 minutes to set the chocolate completely.

Toast the Marshmallows:

While chocolate sets, arrange marshmallows in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Position oven rack 6 inches from broiler element and preheat the broiler. Watch marshmallows constantly as they toast under the broiler for about 1 minute per side until they develop a golden brown exterior while maintaining a gooey center.

Assemble the S'mores:

Place one toasted marshmallow on top of a chocolate-dipped graham cracker sandwich. Spoon exactly 2 teaspoons of blueberry jelly over the marshmallow, letting it drizzle slightly down the sides. Top with another chocolate-dipped sandwich to create the complete s'more. The warm marshmallow will slightly melt the chocolate and soften the jelly for perfect texture.

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The DOVE Dark Chocolate PROMISES are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered their perfect melting quality by accident when making chocolate fondue one winter, and they've become my go-to for any recipe requiring melted chocolate. Their slightly deeper cocoa notes perfectly complement the sweetness of the marshmallow and fruitiness of the jelly.

Make Ahead Options

These s'mores can be partially prepped ahead of your gathering. The chocolate-dipped graham cracker sandwiches can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply toast the marshmallows and complete the assembly. This makes them perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute preparation.

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Flavor Variations

While blueberry jelly creates a sophisticated flavor profile, this recipe works beautifully with other preserves as well. Raspberry jam provides a more intense berry flavor with pleasant seeds for texture. Strawberry preserves offer a classic sweetness children especially love. For adults, consider orange marmalade which creates an elegant chocolate orange combination. The peanut butter base works harmoniously with any of these fruit options.

Serving Suggestions

These elevated s'mores deserve a special presentation. Serve them on a slate board or wooden platter with a small bowl of extra jelly on the side. For an elegant dessert table, cut them into quarters and arrange on a tiered serving stand. They pair wonderfully with coffee, milk, or even a dessert wine for adults. Consider serving alongside fresh berries to complement the jelly flavor and add a fresh element to the rich dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different types of jelly?

Absolutely! While blueberry jelly creates a wonderful flavor combination with the peanut butter and chocolate, you can substitute with strawberry, raspberry, grape, or any favorite preserve. Each variation will bring its own unique flavor profile to the s'mores.

→ How do I store leftover PB and J S'mores?

Store assembled s'mores in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For best texture, keep the marshmallow separate and add it just before serving. The chocolate-dipped graham cracker sandwiches alone will keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make these without an oven broiler?

Yes! You can toast the marshmallows using a kitchen torch, over a gas stovetop flame (use tongs and be careful), or even make them outdoors over a grill or campfire. Each method will impart a slightly different flavor to the marshmallows.

→ What can I substitute for DOVE Dark Chocolate?

Any good quality dark chocolate will work well. You can use chocolate chips, chocolate bars broken into pieces, or even milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor. The key is using chocolate that melts smoothly for the best dipping results.

→ Can I prepare components ahead of time for a party?

Yes! Make the chocolate-dipped peanut butter graham cracker sandwiches up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Toast the marshmallows just before serving and assemble the final s'mores when ready to enjoy for the best texture and freshness.

→ Are there any nut-free alternatives?

For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter, cookie butter, or chocolate hazelnut spread (check ingredients for nut contamination). These alternatives maintain the creamy texture while accommodating allergies.