smore

A s’more is a traditional campfire confection popular in the United States and Canada. It typically consists of a roasted marshmallow and a slab of chocolate sandwiched between two graham crackers, arranged so the warm marshmallow melts the chocolate as the sandwich is pressed together.

Origin and name: The treat emerged in the early 20th century, with the earliest published recipe appearing in a 1927 Girl Scouts handbook. The name is a contraction of “some more,” reflecting the expectation that the treat is hard to resist and often eaten more than once.

Ingredients and variations: The standard version uses graham crackers, a marshmallow, and a bar or piece of chocolate. Variations include different types of chocolate (milk, dark, or flavored), substitutes for graham crackers (cookies or wafers), and add-ins such as peanut butter, caramel, or fruit. Vegan and dairy-free options use plant-based marshmallows and chocolate.

Preparation methods: Traditionally, the marshmallow is roasted over a campfire until the exterior is toasted and the interior is gooey, then placed between two crackers with chocolate so it melts into the chocolate. S’mores can also be prepared in a microwave, oven, or grill, though results may differ from the campfire method.

Cultural presence: The s’more is closely associated with camping, scouting, and outdoor recreation and has become a recognizable symbol of American snack culture. It appears in various packaged products and has inspired numerous flavor and ingredient variations.