Grilled S’mores Pizza recipe

It’s always a delightful surprise when a classic treat gets a fun and unexpected twist. That’s precisely what happened when we decided to take the beloved campfire s’more and transform it into a grilled pizza. Initially, it sounded a little unconventional, even a tad strange – s’mores on pizza dough? But the moment the first slice came off the grill, all doubts vanished. The smoky char of the grilled dough, the gooey, melted marshmallows, the rich, melty chocolate, and the satisfying crunch of graham crackers – it was a flavor explosion! My kids went absolutely wild for it, and honestly, the adults weren’t far behind. It’s become our go-to dessert for summer barbecues, casual get-togethers, and even just a fun family night at home. The grilling element adds such a fantastic depth of flavor that baking in the oven simply can’t replicate. Plus, it’s incredibly interactive and fun to make together, especially involving the kids in topping their own slices. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress, is incredibly easy to make, and delivers that nostalgic s’mores flavor in a novel and exciting way, you absolutely must try this Grilled S’mores Pizza. Get ready to become the dessert hero of your next gathering!

Ingredients

To create this irresistibly gooey and smoky Grilled S’mores Pizza, you’ll need a handful of simple, classic s’mores ingredients, along with the foundation of any great pizza – the dough! Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need, ensuring you have all the essentials for dessert pizza perfection:

For the Pizza Dough:

• 1 pound Pizza Dough (store-bought or homemade): The base of our s’mores pizza adventure! You have options here.
  • Store-bought Pizza Dough: For ultimate convenience, store-bought pizza dough is fantastic. You can find it fresh in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, often near the deli or bakery. Look for “pizza dough” or “Italian bread dough.” Brands like Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and many local supermarkets offer excellent pre-made dough. This is a time-saver and ensures consistent results, especially if you’re new to pizza dough.
  • Homemade Pizza Dough: For the more adventurous baker, or if you prefer complete control over ingredients, homemade pizza dough is incredibly rewarding. You can use your favorite pizza dough recipe. A classic Neapolitan-style dough, or even a simple no-knead dough, will work wonderfully. Homemade dough allows you to customize the thickness and texture to your preference. (If you’re making homemade, ensure you factor in proofing/rising time.)

For the S’mores Toppings:

• 1 cup Chocolate (chopped chocolate bars or chocolate chips): The rich, melty heart of any s’more! The type of chocolate you use makes a difference:
  • Chocolate Bars (Semi-sweet or Milk Chocolate): Chopping chocolate bars, especially semi-sweet or milk chocolate, will give you wonderful pools of melted chocolate across the pizza. High-quality chocolate bars will melt smoothly and deliver a richer flavor. Brands like Ghirardelli, Lindt, or Valrhona (for a splurge) are excellent.
  • Chocolate Chips (Semi-sweet or Milk Chocolate): Chocolate chips are convenient and melt well. Semi-sweet chips provide a balanced sweetness, while milk chocolate chips will make it sweeter. For a slightly richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips or a mix of semi-sweet and dark.
  • Variety of Chocolates (Optional): Get creative! You could use a mix of milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips for a more complex flavor profile and visual appeal.
• 4 cups Marshmallows (large or mini): The gooey, toasted cloud that defines a s’more!
  • Large Marshmallows: Large marshmallows are classic s’mores marshmallows. They create big, puffy, gooey pockets on the pizza. You can halve or quarter them for easier distribution and melting.
  • Mini Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows are incredibly convenient for even coverage and quick melting. They create a more uniformly marshmallow-y surface.
  • Gourmet Marshmallows (Optional): For a gourmet twist, consider using flavored marshmallows like vanilla bean, salted caramel, or even chocolate marshmallows. These add an extra layer of flavor sophistication.
• 1 ½ cups Graham Crackers (crumbled): The essential crunchy base and classic s’mores flavor!
  • Regular Graham Crackers: Classic graham crackers are perfect. You can use honey graham crackers for a touch more sweetness or cinnamon graham crackers for a warmer spice note.
  • Chocolate Graham Crackers (Optional): For an extra chocolatey pizza, use chocolate graham crackers.
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs vs. Larger Pieces: You can crumble the graham crackers finely into crumbs for even distribution, or leave them in slightly larger, more rustic pieces for a chunkier texture and visual interest. A mix of both is also great.

Optional Ingredients (For Extra Flair):

• Sea Salt Flakes: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the finished pizza enhances the sweetness and chocolate flavors.
• Cinnamon Sugar: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on the dough before grilling adds a warm, subtle spice.
• Espresso Powder: A tiny pinch of espresso powder in the chocolate layer can deepen the chocolate flavor.
• Caramel Sauce (for drizzling): A drizzle of caramel sauce after grilling adds extra sweetness and gooeyness.
• Peanut Butter (for drizzling or swirls): Peanut butter drizzle or swirls incorporated with the chocolate layer add a classic s’mores variation.
• Fresh Berries (strawberries, raspberries): Fresh berries, especially strawberries or raspberries, add a touch of freshness and tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully. Add them after grilling the pizza.

Equipment:

• Grill (gas or charcoal): Essential for that smoky grilled flavor.
• Pizza Peel (or large spatula/baking sheet): For transferring the pizza to and from the grill. A pizza peel is ideal but a large spatula or even the back of a baking sheet can work.
• Large Cutting Board or Clean Surface: For shaping and assembling the pizza.
• Pastry Brush (optional): For brushing the dough with oil (if desired).
• Pizza Cutter or Large Knife: For slicing the pizza.
• Small Bowls: For holding toppings (chocolate, marshmallows, graham crackers).
• Parchment Paper (optional): For easier handling of the dough, especially if using homemade dough.

Instructions

Let’s get grilling! This Grilled S’mores Pizza recipe is surprisingly simple and quick, especially if you’re using store-bought dough. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own smoky, sweet dessert masterpiece:

Step 1: Prepare the Grill and Dough

1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). For a gas grill, this is usually medium setting. For a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are mostly covered in white ash and the heat is moderate. You want a temperature that will cook the dough without burning it too quickly, but hot enough to melt the marshmallows and chocolate.
2. Prepare Dough: If using store-bought dough, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling to allow it to come to room temperature. This makes it easier to stretch and shape. If using homemade dough, ensure it’s ready for shaping after its final rise.
3. Shape Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface. Gently stretch or roll out the pizza dough into a large circle or oval, about 12-14 inches in diameter and about ¼ inch thick. You can aim for a rustic, free-form shape – it adds to the charm! If using homemade dough, be careful not to deflate it too much. If the dough is sticky, use a little more flour.
4. Optional: Brush with Oil (for Flavor and Texture): Lightly brush one side of the dough with olive oil or melted butter. This is optional but can enhance the flavor and prevent sticking to the grill grates. It also promotes better browning and a slightly crispier crust.

Step 2: Grill the Pizza Dough

1. Grill First Side: Carefully transfer the dough to the preheated grill, oiled side down if you brushed it. If using a pizza peel, dust it with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking and slide the dough onto the grill. If using a spatula or baking sheet, gently lift and place the dough on the grates.
2. Grill for 2-3 Minutes: Grill for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom is lightly golden brown and has grill marks. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, as grill temperatures can vary. You want the dough to be set and slightly cooked but not fully cooked through at this stage.
3. Flip Dough: Using tongs or a spatula, carefully flip the dough over to the uncooked side.

Step 3: Assemble the S’mores Pizza Toppings

1. Add Chocolate: Immediately after flipping the dough, quickly and evenly distribute the chocolate (chopped chocolate or chocolate chips) over the grilled side of the dough. Ensure the chocolate is spread relatively evenly to cover most of the surface area.
2. Add Marshmallows: Arrange the marshmallows over the chocolate layer. If using large marshmallows, you can halve or quarter them for better coverage. If using mini marshmallows, sprinkle them generously. Aim for a good layer of marshmallows, as they will melt down a bit.
3. Optional: Cinnamon Sugar (if using): If using cinnamon sugar, lightly sprinkle it over the marshmallows at this stage.

Step 4: Grill to Melt Toppings

1. Cover Grill (if using gas grill): If using a gas grill, close the grill lid. This will help to create a convection effect, melting the marshmallows and chocolate more evenly without burning the bottom crust. If using a charcoal grill, you can loosely tent the pizza with foil to help trap heat.
2. Grill for 2-4 Minutes: Grill for another 2-4 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffed, golden brown, and gooey, and the chocolate is melted and softened. Watch carefully to prevent the marshmallows from burning – they can go from golden to burnt quickly. The grilling time will depend on the heat of your grill and the thickness of your toppings.
3. Check Doneness: The pizza is ready when the marshmallows are nicely toasted and gooey, the chocolate is melted, and the crust is cooked through but still slightly soft in the center.

Step 5: Add Graham Crackers and Serve

1. Remove from Grill: Using a pizza peel or large spatula, carefully slide or lift the Grilled S’mores Pizza off the grill and onto a cutting board or serving platter.
2. Sprinkle Graham Crackers: Immediately sprinkle the crumbled graham crackers evenly over the melted marshmallows and chocolate. The heat from the pizza will slightly warm the graham crackers.
3. Optional: Sea Salt, Caramel, Peanut Butter, Berries (if using): If using any optional toppings like sea salt flakes, caramel sauce drizzle, peanut butter drizzle, or fresh berries, add them now. Drizzle sauces artfully and arrange berries for visual appeal.
4. Slice and Serve: Slice the Grilled S’mores Pizza into wedges using a pizza cutter or large knife. Serve immediately while it’s warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible! The contrast of warm, melted toppings and the slightly charred crust is best enjoyed fresh off the grill.

Nutrition Facts

Indulging in a Grilled S’mores Pizza is definitely a treat! Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information to be mindful of as you enjoy this delicious dessert. Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, dough thickness, topping amounts, and serving sizes.

Serving Size: Approximately 1 slice (assuming the pizza is cut into 8 slices)
Approximate Servings per Pizza: 8

Approximate Nutrition Information per Serving (1 slice):

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Total Fat: 12-15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6-8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5-7g
• Cholesterol: 5-10mg
• Sodium: 200-250mg (can vary based on dough and graham crackers)
• Total Carbohydrates: 45-50g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
  • Sugars: 25-30g (primarily from chocolate and marshmallows)
• Protein: 4-5g

Key Nutritional Considerations:

• High in Sugar: As expected with a s’mores-inspired dessert, this pizza is high in sugar, primarily from the chocolate and marshmallows. Enjoy in moderation as a treat.
• Moderate in Fat: The chocolate and dough contribute to the fat content. While some fats are necessary, saturated fat intake should be monitored as part of a balanced diet.
• Source of Carbohydrates: The pizza dough and graham crackers provide carbohydrates, which are the body’s primary energy source.
• Relatively Low in Fiber and Protein: Compared to main meals, this dessert pizza is lower in fiber and protein. It’s primarily a source of simple carbohydrates and fats for a quick energy boost and enjoyment.

Important Notes:

• These values are estimates. For more precise nutritional information, use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.
• Portion control is important when enjoying desserts. Consider smaller slices or sharing a pizza among a larger group.
• This is a dessert intended for occasional enjoyment and not a regular dietary staple.

Grilled S’mores Pizza is a fun and delicious treat, perfect for special occasions and gatherings. Enjoy it mindfully as part of a balanced lifestyle.

Preparation Time

One of the appealing aspects of Grilled S’mores Pizza is its quick preparation time, making it an ideal dessert for impromptu gatherings or when you need a sweet treat in a hurry. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved from start to finish:

• Prep Time: This includes gathering ingredients, shaping the dough (if needed), chopping chocolate (if using bars), and crumbling graham crackers. Approximately 10-15 minutes.
  • Gathering ingredients and equipment: 3-5 minutes
  • Shaping dough (stretching or rolling): 3-5 minutes
  • Chopping chocolate/crumbling graham crackers: 3-5 minutes
• Grill Time (Dough): Grilling the pizza dough on both sides. Approximately 4-6 minutes. (2-3 minutes per side)
• Grill Time (Toppings): Grilling the pizza with toppings to melt the marshmallows and chocolate. Approximately 2-4 minutes.

Total Time (Approximate): 16-25 minutes.

Active Time (Hands-On Time): Approximately 15-20 minutes.

As you can see, the total time from start to finish is very short – under 30 minutes! The active hands-on time is even less, making this a truly quick and easy dessert. Most of the time is spent grilling, which requires monitoring but is relatively hands-off once the dough is on the grill. This recipe is perfect when you need a dessert fast without sacrificing flavor or fun. The speed and simplicity make it a great option for grilling season and casual get-togethers.

How to Serve

Grilled S’mores Pizza is inherently fun and delicious, but thoughtful serving suggestions can elevate the experience and make it even more memorable. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dessert pizza:

Classic & Simple Servings:

• Warm Slices Immediately: The best way to enjoy Grilled S’mores Pizza is to slice it and serve it immediately while it’s warm and gooey, straight off the grill. The contrast of warm toppings and slightly charred crust is at its peak right away.
• Casual Platter: Place the whole pizza or sliced wedges on a large platter or cutting board in the center of the table or serving area. Let everyone help themselves to slices. This encourages a relaxed and communal dining experience.
• Dessert Plates or Napkins: Provide dessert plates or sturdy napkins for easy handling, as the melted marshmallows and chocolate can be a bit sticky (in the best way!).

Elevated Serving Ideas:

• Individual Slices on Dessert Plates: For a slightly more formal setting, plate individual slices on dessert plates. Garnish each slice with a fresh berry (strawberry or raspberry) or a sprig of mint for an elegant touch.
• With Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: Serve warm slices of Grilled S’mores Pizza alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, chocolate ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold ice cream or cream provides a delicious temperature and texture contrast to the warm pizza.
• Drizzles and Sauces on the Side: Offer small bowls of extra toppings for guests to customize their slices. Options include:
  • Caramel sauce
  • Chocolate sauce
  • Peanut butter sauce
  • Marshmallow fluff
• S’mores Bar Concept: For a party or gathering, set up a “S’mores Pizza Bar.” Grill the pizza dough base and then let guests customize their own slices with a variety of toppings: different types of chocolate, marshmallows, graham crackers, candies, fruits, sauces, etc. This is a fun and interactive approach, especially for kids and groups.

Occasion-Based Serving Suggestions:

• Summer BBQ Dessert: Perfect for casual summer barbecues and cookouts. Serve it as a fun and unexpected dessert after grilling savory dishes.
• Campfire or Outdoor Gathering: Ideal for campfire nights, outdoor parties, or backyard gatherings. The grilled element fits perfectly with an outdoor setting.
• Family Dessert Night: A fun and easy dessert for family movie nights, game nights, or weekend treats. Get the kids involved in topping the pizza.
• Potlucks and Parties: A crowd-pleasing dessert to bring to potlucks, picnics, or parties. It’s easy to transport and always a hit.

Drinks to Pair With:

• Milk: Classic pairing for s’mores – cold milk is refreshing and complements the sweetness.
• Hot Chocolate: For a cozy and indulgent pairing, serve with hot chocolate, especially on cooler evenings.
• Coffee or Espresso: The slight bitterness of coffee or espresso balances the sweetness of the dessert.
• Sweet Wine (like Moscato or Dessert Wine): For adult gatherings, a light, sweet wine can complement the dessert without overpowering it.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Grilled S’mores Pizza is meant to be enjoyed and shared. Its fun, nostalgic flavors and interactive nature make it a dessert that brings smiles and happy memories.

Additional Tips for Baking Success

To consistently create amazing Grilled S’mores Pizza and avoid common pitfalls, here are five additional tips to ensure grilling success every time:

1. Control Grill Heat: Grilling dessert pizza requires moderate, consistent heat. Avoid grilling over high heat, as this can burn the dough and marshmallows before the chocolate melts properly. Aim for medium heat (350-400°F). If using charcoal, ensure the coals are well-distributed and not too hot. If you notice the crust browning too quickly, move the pizza to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat.
2. Par-Grill Dough First: Grilling the dough on both sides before adding toppings is crucial. This par-grilling ensures the dough is cooked through and has a slightly crispy base that can support the weight of the toppings. If you add toppings to raw dough directly on the grill, the bottom may burn before the dough cooks through.
3. Watch Marshmallows Closely: Marshmallows can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly under grill heat. Keep a close eye on them during the final grilling stage. Once they start to puff up and turn golden brown, they are likely done. Don’t walk away from the grill during this step! If they are browning too fast, you can lift the lid briefly to reduce the heat or move the pizza to a cooler zone.
4. Use a Pizza Peel (or Improvisation): A pizza peel makes transferring the dough and pizza to and from the grill much easier and safer. If you don’t have a peel, use a large, thin spatula or even the back of a baking sheet to carefully slide the pizza onto the grill and remove it. Dust the peel or spatula with flour or cornmeal to prevent sticking.
5. Don’t Overload Toppings: While it’s tempting to pile on the chocolate and marshmallows, resist the urge to overload. Too many toppings can make the pizza difficult to handle, prevent even cooking, and potentially make the crust soggy. A moderate, even layer of toppings will grill more effectively and result in a better overall pizza. You can always add a drizzle of extra sauce or a sprinkle of extra graham crackers after grilling if desired.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to grill perfect Grilled S’mores Pizza every time, impressing your friends and family with this fun and delicious dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Got questions about grilling up your own S’mores Pizza? You’re in the right place! Here are answers to five frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot and become a Grilled S’mores Pizza pro:

Q1: Can I bake this S’mores Pizza in the oven instead of grilling?

A: Yes, you can definitely bake it in the oven if you don’t have a grill or the weather isn’t cooperating. To bake in the oven:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Shape your pizza dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake the dough for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. This par-baking is similar to par-grilling.
4. Remove from the oven and top with chocolate and marshmallows.
5. Return to the oven and bake for another 3-5 minutes, or until marshmallows are puffed and golden and chocolate is melted.
6. Remove from oven, sprinkle with graham crackers, and serve.

While baking in the oven will still be delicious, you will miss out on the smoky flavor that grilling imparts to the crust, which is a signature element of Grilled S’mores Pizza.

Q2: Can I use pre-made pizza crust instead of pizza dough?

A: Yes, you can use pre-made pizza crusts, like those found in grocery stores (often in flatbread or pizza crust form). This is an even quicker option than using store-bought dough. If using pre-made crust:
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Lightly grill the pre-made crust on both sides for a minute or two per side to warm it through and add a slight grill char.
3. Remove from grill, top with chocolate and marshmallows.
4. Return to grill (or oven, if preferred) and grill until marshmallows are melted and toasted, and chocolate is melted.
5. Sprinkle with graham crackers and serve.

Using pre-made crust is a great shortcut for a super-fast dessert pizza.

Q3: What if I don’t have a pizza peel? What can I use to transfer the pizza to the grill?

A: If you don’t have a pizza peel, don’t worry! You can use several alternatives:
* Large Spatula: Use a large, thin spatula to carefully lift and transfer the dough and pizza. You might need two spatulas for larger pizzas.
* Baking Sheet (Inverted): Invert a large, rimless baking sheet. Dust it with flour or cornmeal. Shape the dough on the baking sheet, then slide it onto the grill by tilting the baking sheet. To remove the pizza, slide it back onto the baking sheet.
* Cutting Board (Thin and Flat): A thin, flat cutting board (wood or plastic) can also work similarly to an inverted baking sheet. Dust it well to prevent sticking.
* Parchment Paper (for shaping and transferring): Shape the dough on a piece of parchment paper. Then, carefully lift the parchment paper with the dough and place it on the grill. The parchment paper will char slightly but will help with transfer. You can peel it off after grilling the dough for a minute or two.

Q4: Can I make this Grilled S’mores Pizza ahead of time?

A: Grilled S’mores Pizza is best enjoyed fresh and warm right off the grill. The marshmallows and chocolate are at their gooey best when served immediately. However, you can do some prep ahead:
* Prepare Dough Ahead: If making homemade dough, you can make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
* Chop Chocolate and Crumble Graham Crackers: You can prepare the toppings (chop chocolate, crumble graham crackers) ahead of time and store them in airtight containers.

Grilling and assembling the pizza is very quick, so it’s best to do that just before serving for the optimal texture and flavor. Reheating a fully assembled s’mores pizza can be tricky as the marshmallows can become rubbery.

Q5: Can I add other toppings besides the classic s’mores ingredients?

A: Absolutely! Get creative and customize your Grilled S’mores Pizza with other delicious toppings. Some fun additions include:
* Fruits: Sliced bananas, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or peaches (add after grilling).
* Nuts: Toasted pecans, walnuts, almonds, or peanuts (sprinkle on with graham crackers).
* Sauces: Caramel sauce, peanut butter sauce, chocolate sauce, marshmallow fluff (drizzle after grilling).
* Candies: Sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, toffee bits (sprinkle on with graham crackers).
* Spices: Cinnamon sugar, a pinch of sea salt (sprinkle on before or after grilling).

Experiment and find your favorite combinations to make your Grilled S’mores Pizza truly unique!

Print