When the evening air grows crisp, a certain nostalgia calls for that beloved classic – the s'more. Whether gathered around a crackling campfire or cozied up in a warm kitchen, this elevated version transforms a childhood treat into an elegant dessert experience. This reimagined Salted Caramel S'more presents a harmonious blend of dark chocolate, golden marshmallow, and buttery caramel, finished with a sprinkle of sea salt that takes this treat from simple to sublime. Paired with carefully selected wines, this elevated classic becomes perfect for any setting, from outdoor soirées to intimate indoor gatherings.

The Perfect Salted Caramel S'more 

Creating the perfect gourmet s'more is an art that balances flavors and textures. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a sophisticated dessert that will impress even the most discerning palates, with methods for both outdoor and indoor preparation.

Ingredients:

• 8 graham cracker squares
• 4 squares dark chocolate (70% cocoa content recommended)
• 4 high-quality caramel squares (such as Werther's)
• 4 large marshmallows
• Sea salt flakes (Maldon recommended)
• Optional: additional caramel sauce for drizzling

Campfire Instructions:

1. Arrange graham crackers in pairs on a clean surface or plate.
2. Place one square of dark chocolate on one half of each graham cracker pair.
3. Position a caramel square directly on top of the chocolate.
4. Toast the marshmallow over the fire until golden brown, rotating slowly for even caramelization.
5. Place the hot marshmallow directly onto the caramel square, allowing its heat to gently melt both the caramel and chocolate beneath.
6. Sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt over the marshmallow.
7. Gently press the second graham cracker on top, allowing the heat to distribute the melted elements.
8. If desired, drizzle with additional warm caramel sauce.

Oven Method:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, place four graham cracker halves.
3. Layer each with one square of dark chocolate followed by a caramel square.
4. Place in oven for 2 minutes to begin melting the chocolate and caramel.
5. Remove from oven and place one marshmallow on top of each caramel square.
6. Return to oven and broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully until marshmallows are golden brown.
7. Remove from oven, sprinkle with sea salt, and top with remaining graham crackers.
8. Let rest for 30 seconds before serving to allow for optimal melting.

Pro Tips for Indoor Preparation:

• Position the oven rack in the middle position for initial melting, then move to top position for broiling
• Keep the oven door slightly ajar while broiling to watch for perfect marshmallow toasting
• For extra decadence, warm the remaining graham cracker halves in the oven for 30 seconds before topping.

The result? A perfectly balanced treat where bitter meets sweet, crunchy meets gooey, and a touch of salt elevates every flavor, regardless of preparation method.

Elevating the S'more: Wine Companions

While s'mores might traditionally be paired with hot chocolate or coffee, this treat enters sophisticated territory with two exceptional wine pairings that transform this campfire classic into an elegant dessert experience.

First comes the Château La Fleur de Boüard Lalande-de-Pomerol, a wine that might surprise many with its ability to complement this upscale s'more. Its rich plum and chocolate notes create a beautiful harmony with the dark chocolate, while its subtle minerality enhances the sea salt's complexity.

For those seeking an even more decadent experience, the Royal Oporto 2017 LBV Port offers a different but equally enchanting pairing. This port's concentrated dark fruit flavors and velvety texture mirror the caramel's richness while creating a luxurious bridge between all elements of the s'more.

Why It Works 

The key to these pairings lies in the balance of flavors. Chateau La Fleur’s structured tannins cut through the sweetness of the marshmallow and caramel, while its fruit-forward profile complements the dark chocolate's complexity. Meanwhile, the port's natural sweetness creates a seamless transition between the dessert's various elements, while its deep flavors stand up beautifully to the robust combination of chocolate and caramel.

The Perfect Evening Moment

Whether fireside or tableside, the scene unfolds with equal charm. As the salted caramel s'more comes together with careful precision, a glass of chosen wine stands ready. The first bite reveals layers of flavor – the crunch of graham cracker giving way to melting chocolate and caramel, the pillowy marshmallow adding its sweet warmth, and that perfect touch of salt bringing everything into focus. Follow with a sip of wine, and the taster discovers a pairing that transforms a casual treat into a memorable dessert experience.

This sophisticated take on s'mores proves that beloved childhood favorites can evolve into elegant adult indulgences, whether prepared outdoors under the stars or in the comfort of one's kitchen. The next time a gathering is being planned, a bottle of Château La Fleur de Boüard or Royal Oporto Port alongside the s'mores ingredients will create a combination that's sure to spark joy and create lasting memories, regardless of setting.