
This hearty campfire treat has become my family's summer dessert tradition, combining the classic flavors of s'mores with the irresistible addition of Reese's peanut butter cups and pieces. The waffle cone creates the perfect crispy vessel for melty marshmallows and chocolate, making each bite a wonderful mix of textures and flavors.
I first made these during a lakeside camping trip when my kids were getting bored with traditional s'mores. The excitement on their faces when they unwrapped these melty, gooey treats convinced me this would become our new tradition.
Ingredients
- Waffle cones: sturdy and crispy shells that hold everything together while adding a wonderful crunch
- Mini marshmallows: they melt faster and more evenly than large ones making for perfect gooey pockets
- Chocolate chips: classic melting chocolate that creates smooth ribbons throughout
- Reese's Mini Peanut Butter Cups: the star ingredient adding that signature peanut butter chocolate combination
- Reese's Pieces: add color extra peanut butter flavor and a slight candy shell crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start with the Base:
- Fill the bottom quarter to third of each waffle cone with mini marshmallows. This creates a solid foundation and ensures you get that stretchy marshmallow pull with every bite.
- Create Delicious Layers:
- Alternate adding chocolate chips, Reese's Mini Peanut Butter Cups, Reese's Pieces, and more mini marshmallows until the cone is completely filled. Pack the ingredients down gently as you go so you can fit more goodness inside without crushing the cone.
- Wrap Securely:
- Wrap each cone individually in aluminum foil with special attention to the top opening. First cover the filled top to keep ingredients from spilling, then fold up from the bottom and secure the sides. Make sure they're sealed tightly to prevent any delicious fillings from escaping.
- Heat Until Melty:
- For campfire cooking, place the wrapped cones near hot coals, not directly in flames, and turn occasionally for 5 to 7 minutes. For home cooking, bake in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. You'll know they're ready when everything inside has melted into a glorious combination.
- Cool Slightly and Enjoy:
- Let the cones cool for a minute or two after removing them from heat so you don't burn your mouth on the molten filling. Carefully unwrap and prepare for a magnificent dessert experience.
The mini Reese's peanut butter cups are truly the magical ingredient in these cones. The way they melt creates pockets of smooth peanut butter chocolate that make these so much more special than regular s'mores. My daughter actually declared these better than birthday cake after trying them at our last beach bonfire.
Make Ahead Options
These cones can be assembled and wrapped up to 24 hours before your event. Store them in a cooler or refrigerator until you're ready to heat them. This makes them perfect for camping trips or backyard parties where you want to minimize prep work during the actual gathering. The ingredients won't get soggy in the cone as long as they remain unheated.
Indoor Cooking Method
No campfire available? These treats work beautifully in a home oven set to 350°F. Place the wrapped cones upright on a baking sheet, perhaps nestled between muffin cups to keep them from tipping over. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until everything is melted. You can also use a gas grill with the lid closed for a similar effect.
Endless Variations
While Reese's products make these cones special, you can customize them with nearly any sweet filling. Try caramel chips, butterscotch morsels, crushed cookies, sliced strawberries, or banana pieces. The basic technique remains the same create layers of ingredients that will melt together into something more delicious than the sum of their parts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cones with napkins or even inside a second paper bowl to catch any potential drips. For an extra special presentation, unwrap the cones and immediately roll the melty top in sprinkles, crushed nuts, or mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. These are best enjoyed immediately after cooking while everything is still warm and gooey.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows?
Yes, you can cut regular marshmallows into smaller pieces to fit better into the cones.
- → What other fillings can I use?
You can try adding chopped nuts, caramel bits, white chocolate chips, or any candy of your choice.
- → How do I prevent the ingredients from spilling out?
Wrap the cones tightly with aluminum foil, covering the top first before folding up the bottom and sides.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the cones, wrap them in foil, and refrigerate for up to a day before cooking.
- → What’s the best way to cook these cones?
For a classic experience, cook over campfire coals. Alternatively, bake in the oven or grill for similar results.