Air Fryer S’mores – Perfectly Gooey in 4 Minutes

These Air Fryer S’mores deliver campfire-quality results in just 4 minutes with no fire required. After testing methods from top food blogs, this technique consistently produces perfectly golden marshmallows and melty chocolate sandwiched between crispy graham crackers indoors.

Vertical close-up of air fryer s’mores with toasted marshmallows and melted chocolate

Perfect Air Fryer S’mores Recipe

The secret to successful air fryer s’mores lies in the two-step process that ensures even cooking without burning. Unlike traditional campfire methods that require perfect timing and fire management, this indoor approach gives you complete control over the toasting process while maintaining that authentic s’mores experience.

Ingredients

  • 2 full graham crackers (4 squares when broken)
  • 2 large marshmallows
  • 2 pieces milk chocolate candy bar (Hershey’s size)
  • Optional: small amount of Nutella for adhesion

Ingredient Notes: Large or jumbo marshmallows work best as mini marshmallows can blow around in the air fryer. Any chocolate works – try dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter cups for variety.

Instructions

  1. Prepare graham crackers: Break graham crackers in half to create 4 squares. Set aside 2 squares for topping.
  2. Prep marshmallows: Cut marshmallows in half horizontally to expose the sticky interior. This crucial step prevents them from flying around during cooking.
  3. Assemble base: Place 2 graham cracker squares in air fryer basket. Position halved marshmallows sticky-side down on crackers, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Air fry marshmallows: Cook at 390°F (199°C) for 3-4 minutes until marshmallows are golden brown and puffed.
  5. Add chocolate: Remove from air fryer and immediately place chocolate pieces on hot marshmallows.
  6. Complete s’mores: Top with remaining graham cracker squares. Let sit 30 seconds for chocolate to melt from residual heat.
  7. Serve immediately: Enjoy while marshmallows are still gooey and warm.

Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 4 minutes
Total Time: 6 minutes
Servings: 2 s’mores
Air Fryer Temperature: 390°F (199°C)
Difficulty: Easy

Air Fryer Settings & Tips for S’mores

Temperature & Timing Guide

Standard Air Fryers (3-5 quart): 390°F for 3-4 minutes
Large Air Fryers (6+ quart): 390°F for 2-3 minutes (check at 2 minutes)
Compact Air Fryers (2 quart): 380°F for 4-5 minutes

Visual Doneness Cues: Marshmallows should be golden brown with slight puffing. The surface will develop a toasted appearance similar to campfire roasting.

Pro Tips for Extra Crispy Results

The Sticky Side Secret: After testing dozens of methods, cutting marshmallows in half and placing them sticky-side down is the most reliable way to prevent them from flying around. This technique works across all air fryer brands and fan speeds.

Parchment Paper Hack: Line your air fryer with parchment paper for easy cleanup, but ensure paper doesn’t touch the heating element or block air circulation. Gather edges around s’mores to contain any melted marshmallow.

Chocolate Timing: Never add chocolate during the cooking phase – it burns quickly and turns bitter. The residual heat from hot marshmallows melts chocolate perfectly in 15-30 seconds.

Batch Cooking: Most air fryer baskets accommodate 2-4 s’mores at once. For subsequent batches with preheated air fryers, reduce cooking time by 30-60 seconds to prevent burning.

Fan Power Considerations: High-powered air fryers (like Phillips models) may blow ingredients around more. If marshmallows still move despite the sticky-side technique, use a toothpick to secure them or try 380°F instead.

Serving & Storage for Air Fryer S’mores

Best Sauce Pairings

Nutella Spread: Beyond helping marshmallows stick, Nutella adds rich hazelnut flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle over assembled s’mores for gourmet appeal and sweet-salty contrast.

Peanut Butter: Spread on graham crackers before adding marshmallows for a Reese’s-inspired twist.

Fresh Berry Compote: Strawberry or raspberry compote adds bright acidity that cuts through the sweetness.

Perfect Side Dishes

Air Fryer Cinnamon Apples: Cook sliced apples at 350°F for 8 minutes while s’mores rest.

Hot Chocolate: Prepare while marshmallows cook – the timing works perfectly for serving together.

Air Fryer Popcorn: Make at 400°F for 8-10 minutes for a fun movie night pairing.

Storage & Reheating

Best Practice: S’mores are meant to be enjoyed immediately while marshmallows remain gooey and chocolate is melted. Quality significantly decreases after cooling.

Short-term Storage: If absolutely necessary, store in airtight container at room temperature for maximum 24 hours.

Reheating Method: Return to air fryer for 30-45 seconds at 350°F, but expect texture changes in marshmallows and chocolate.

Conclusion

This air fryer method delivers consistently perfect s’mores every time. The controlled temperature eliminates guesswork while the rapid cooking time satisfies cravings instantly without requiring outdoor setup or fire management.

Author

  • Smiling woman named Sarah Mitchell in a cozy kitchen wearing an apron

    Sarah Mitchell is a Culinary Institute of America-trained pastry chef turned food writer who specializes in easy air fryer desserts. After working in bakeries from NYC to Portland, she discovered her passion for helping home bakers create bakery-quality treats in small kitchens with simple equipment.

    Based in Portland, Oregon, Sarah develops and tests every recipe multiple times in her tiny apartment kitchen, documenting both successes and failures to help readers troubleshoot common baking problems. Her approach combines professional pastry techniques with practical shortcuts, making desserts accessible to bakers at any skill level.

    When she's not creating recipes at odd hours or responding to reader questions, Sarah can be found exploring Portland's dessert scene for inspiration, always accompanied by her rescue cat Mochi who serves as chief taste-test supervisor.

    Sarah learned to bake at age 6 in her grandmother's Ohio bakery, where she developed her philosophy: great desserts don't need to be complicated – they just need to bring joy.

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