Can I use regular syrup instead of lite pancake syrup?

Absolutely. Any syrup with a similar consistency like pure maple syrup or agave works beautifully here. Just note that using standard syrup will slightly change the flavor and may add a bit more sweetness.

How do I prevent the granola from sticking too much to the parchment or pan?

Parchment paper is your best friend here! It helps release the sticky marshmallow-and-chocolate clusters with ease. Let the granola cool completely before breaking it up; if it sticks a little, a gentle flex of the paper usually does the trick.

Can I make this recipe without protein powder?

Yes! Omit the protein powder and add a little extra oats or puffed rice to maintain the balance of the mixture. The granola will still come out perfectly delicious and chunky.

Are there tips for getting extra-large clusters?

Press the granola together gently with a spatula right after the marshmallows and chocolate have melted, while everything is still warm. Also, avoid over-stirring once you start cooling this helps the pieces stick together for maximum cluster action.

S’mores Granola Recipe

Creating a batch of S’mores Granola is hands-down one of the most inviting ways to capture the magic of campfire s’mores right in your own kitchen no campfire required! This recipe delivers golden, crunchy clusters with sweet marshmallows and swirls of chocolate, all tossed together with a touch of wholesome oats and puffed rice. It’s lightning-fast to prepare, full of irresistible textures (think gooey, crisp, chewy, and melty, all in one bite), and the oven takes care of most of the work. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a fun, nostalgic treat that’s as easy as it is delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ridiculously Easy: Combine, bake, and a couple quick tosses—this recipe will be cooling on your countertop in less than 20 minutes.
Classic S’mores Flavors: Every bite brings together graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallow in the best possible way.
Customizable and Wholesome: There’s protein powder for a subtle nutrient boost, oats for fiber, and you can easily swap ingredients to suit your needs.
Snack Versatility: Enjoy it by the handful, over yogurt, with milk, or as a sweet topping for your favorite desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down each star player and what it brings to your granola bowl:

Old-Fashioned Oats: The heart of any granola, for a chewy and toasty base.
Puffed Rice Cereal: Delivers signature lightness and crunch.
Vanilla Protein Powder: Adds a touch of creaminess, sweetness, and subtle nutrition.
Graham Cracker Sheets (crumbled): The core s’mores note don’t skip this! For extra crunch and that unmistakable graham flavor.
Coconut Oil (melted): Helps everything crisp up while lending a light, pleasant flavor.
Lite Pancake Syrup: Binds the ingredients and gives a sweet, classic “campfire treat” taste with a lighter touch. Maple syrup is also fair game here.
Mini Marshmallows: The happy gooeyness that holds clusters together as it cools plus that iconic s’mores stretch.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Scattered on top to melt into dreamy pockets throughout the clusters. Use dark or milk chocolate if preferred.

Tip: For best results, use real mini marshmallows rather than standard size, so they melt and hold the clusters perfectly.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

It’s easy to put your own spin on this granola! Here are some playful ideas:

Go Nutty: Add a handful of chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts before baking for extra crunch.
More Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chips for dark, milk, or even white chocolate, or add cocoa nibs for a less-sweet twist.
Protein-Free: Leave out the protein powder if you want a more classic granola texture.
Allergy-Friendly: Use gluten-free graham crackers or dairy-free chocolate and marshmallows if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Yogurt Parfait Ready: Stir in some dried fruit after baking dried raspberries are fantastic.

Don’t be shy about making it your own. That’s part of the fun!

How to Make S’mores Granola

Baking this granola is truly as effortless as mixing and spreading. Here’s the sequence you’ll follow:

Step 1: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, toss together the old-fashioned oats, puffed rice, vanilla protein powder, and crushed graham crackers until evenly combined.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour the melted coconut oil and pancake syrup over the dry mix. Stir until every piece is glistening and nothing is left dry this helps the granola stick together for those craveable clusters.

Step 3: Spread and Bake

Scatter the mixture in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. No clumps space everything out so the granola can toast, not steam!

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes, until it starts to turn golden and smells amazing.

Step 4: Add S’mores Toppings

Remove the sheet from the oven and sprinkle the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips evenly across the granola.

Step 5: Finish Baking

Return it to the oven for an additional 2-4 minutes, just enough to melt the chocolate and marshmallows into oozy, toasty goodness.

Step 6: Create Clusters and Cool

Right after baking, gently mix and press the granola so the warm marshmallows and chocolate help form those iconic chunky clusters. It’s sticky now, but stay patient!

Let the granola cool completely on the tray; as it sets, the clusters become perfectly crisp and packed with s’mores flavor in every bite.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Even Layer, Always: Spreading the mix in a single, unclumped layer is the trick to crunchy granola no soggy bits allowed!
Watch the Marshmallows: Keep an eye on the second bake; your goal is melted (not burnt) marshmallows.
Immediate Clustering: Don’t wait too long before mashing it together after baking. That’s how you lock in those deliciously chunky clusters.
Cool Down Completely: Resist the urge to dig in right away. Cooling transforms the mix from gooey to perfectly crunchy and it’s worth the wait.

How to Serve

There are so many ways to enjoy S’mores Granola it’s almost too good to limit to just snacking by the handful! Here are a few delicious serving suggestions:

Breakfast Parfait: Layer granola with vanilla yogurt and fresh strawberries for a s’mores-inspired breakfast.
On-the-Go Snack: Pack into small zip-top bags for a sweet pick-me-up anywhere.
Milk & Spoon: Pour cold milk over a bowl for an “adult cereal” reminiscent of your favorite childhood treat.
Dessert Topping: Scatter over ice cream, brownies, or pudding for an instant upgrade.

Try crumbling some atop roasted bananas or grilled peaches for an unexpected, irresistible finish!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let granola cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Freezing

Granola can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place in a zip-top bag with as much air pressed out as possible. Thaw briefly at room temperature before eating.

Reheating

If clusters soften over time, spread them on a tray and briefly bake in a 325°F oven for 2-3 minutes to revive their crispness. Just be careful not to melt the chocolate and marshmallows too much.

FAQs

Can I use regular syrup instead of lite pancake syrup?

Absolutely. Any syrup with a similar consistency like pure maple syrup or agave works beautifully here. Just note that using standard syrup will slightly change the flavor and may add a bit more sweetness.
How do I prevent the granola from sticking too much to the parchment or pan?

Parchment paper is your best friend here! It helps release the sticky marshmallow-and-chocolate clusters with ease. Let the granola cool completely before breaking it up; if it sticks a little, a gentle flex of the paper usually does the trick.
Can I make this recipe without protein powder?

Yes! Omit the protein powder and add a little extra oats or puffed rice to maintain the balance of the mixture. The granola will still come out perfectly delicious and chunky.
Are there tips for getting extra-large clusters?

Press the granola together gently with a spatula right after the marshmallows and chocolate have melted, while everything is still warm. Also, avoid over-stirring once you start cooling this helps the pieces stick together for maximum cluster action.

Final Thoughts

Bringing the cozy, nostalgic flavors of s’mores into granola form is a stroke of genius and one that couldn’t be easier to whip up. This recipe is simple enough for hectic nights or fast snack prep, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to disappear quickly. So gather your favorite mix-ins, serve it however you like, and dive into the best mashup of sweet, crunchy, gooey goodness. S’mores Granola might just become your new favorite treat happy snacking!