This recipe is a twist on a traditional sweet casserole made with marshmallows and a sweet, buttery syrup. It’s easy to prepare and delivers a warm, gooey, and sweet treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag large marshmallows (about 24-30 marshmallows)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers (optional, for added crunch)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (optional, for topping)
- Optional: chocolate chips, sweet potatoes, or fruit fillings (for variations)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven or Campfire:
- If cooking at home, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If you’re at a campfire, prepare a warm spot with a grill grate or fire-safe surface to place your dish.
2. Arrange the Marshmallows:
- Line the bottom of a foil baking dish or cast-iron skillet with a layer of large marshmallows, as shown in the image. Make sure the marshmallows are evenly spread across the dish. You can either use whole marshmallows or cut them in half for a more compact layer.
3. Prepare the Buttery Syrup:
- In a small saucepan or bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. This will create a rich, buttery syrup that will soak into the marshmallows and add a sweet, caramel-like flavor.
4. Pour Over the Marshmallows:
- Carefully pour the butter-sugar mixture evenly over the marshmallows. The heat from the butter will start to melt the marshmallows slightly, making them soft and gooey even before baking.
5. Optional Toppings:
- For added texture and flavor, sprinkle crushed graham crackers and chopped pecans over the top of the marshmallows. If you like extra sweetness, you can also add a handful of chocolate chips for a s’mores-like twist.
6. Bake or Cook Over the Campfire:
- Oven method: If using an oven, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffed up, golden brown, and bubbly on top.
- Campfire method: If cooking over a campfire, place the foil dish on a grate or directly over the fire (making sure it’s not too close to intense flames). Cook for 10-15 minutes, rotating the dish occasionally to ensure even cooking. Watch carefully so the marshmallows don’t burn.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the marshmallows are toasted and golden, remove the dish from the heat. Let it cool slightly before serving, as the marshmallow and butter mixture will be extremely hot. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, sweet goodness!
Variations of the Recipe:
- Sweet Potato Casserole: If you want a more traditional casserole, layer cooked and mashed sweet potatoes under the marshmallows before adding the butter and sugar mixture. This creates a comforting, sweet side dish that’s perfect for holidays or fall meals.
- S’mores Casserole: Add a layer of chocolate chips or chocolate bars between the marshmallows and the butter mixture, and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers for a twist on s’mores.
- Fruit Casserole: Add fresh or canned fruit (like peaches, apples, or berries) under the marshmallows for a fruit-filled dessert.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Gooey and Sweet: The marshmallows puff up and become soft and gooey, creating a delicious contrast with the buttery, caramel-like sauce.
- Easy to Make: With only a few ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe is quick and easy to throw together—perfect for campfire cooking or a quick dessert at home.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding fruits, nuts, or other toppings to create different versions of this sweet treat.
Tips for Success:
- Watch the Marshmallows: Keep a close eye on the marshmallows as they cook to prevent them from burning. They should be golden brown and slightly toasted, but not overly dark.
- Even Layer: Make sure the marshmallows are evenly spread in the dish so they cook uniformly. If they’re too close together, they may not toast evenly.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best served warm, as the marshmallows will be gooey and the flavors will be at their best.
Perfect for Camping or Home:
This dessert is versatile enough to be cooked over a campfire or baked in an oven at home. If you’re at camp, it’s a fun treat that can be easily thrown together with minimal ingredients. At home, it’s an indulgent dessert that both kids and adults will love.
This Campfire Marshmallow Casserole is a fun, sweet treat that’s perfect for Boy Scout camps, family gatherings, or even just a casual dessert at home. With a simple combination of marshmallows, butter, and sugar, you can create a warm and gooey dessert that everyone will enjoy. Customize it with your favorite toppings or keep it simple—either way, it’s bound to be a hit!
