smores

S'mores, sometimes written smores, are a traditional North American campfire dessert. The classic version consists of a roasted marshmallow and a piece of chocolate placed between two graham crackers, forming a sandwich that is warmed by the melted marshmallow. The combination of warm marshmallow, chocolate, and crisp crackers yields a layered treat commonly prepared at outdoor gatherings, campfires, and casual cookouts. Variations exist, including alternative cookies, different chocolate forms, and additional fillings, though the basic concept remains the same.

Origin and name: The name s'more is a contraction of the phrase some more, reflecting the crowd-pleasing nature of the treat. The earliest known published reference dates to 1927 in a Girl Scout publication, Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts, where the term appears in connection with the recipe. The popularity of s'mores grew with the spread of camping and scouting culture in North America, and the treat has since become closely associated with outdoor recreation.

Variations and contemporary use: While the classic version uses graham crackers and milk chocolate, many variations exist. Some use different cookies, such as chocolate wafers or crackers of varying flavors, or substitute dark or milk chocolate. Others add peanut butter, caramel, or marshmallow fluff, and some prepare s'mores in ovens, on stoves, or with indoor devices. Beyond camping, s'mores appear in dessert menus, home cookbooks, and seasonal celebrations as a symbol of informal, outdoor-oriented treats.