Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters Recipe
If you’re obsessed with those decadent, gooey, and utterly addictive treats from the big-box bakery section, you’re in for a mouthwatering adventure! These Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters layer crispy cereal, fluffy marshmallows, rich caramel, and creamy chocolate for an irresistibly shareable bite. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few simple steps, you can recreate the magic of each chewy, crunchy, chocolate-drenched morsel right at home—no membership required!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a small lineup of everyday ingredients transforms into something extraordinary. Each element brings texture, richness, and that classic s’mores flavor you crave, making your Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters stand out in taste and presentation.
- Golden Grahams cereal: Offers the sweet crunch and honey graham flavor reminiscent of classic campfire s’mores.
- Mini marshmallows: The quintessential s’mores goo, melts just slightly for softness and stretch.
- Caramel dip: Acts as the decadent “glue” that unites the cluster, adding a buttery richness and chewy texture—choose a dip that’s thick and spoonable.
- Dipping chocolate (10 oz bag): The finishing touch, giving you that glossy, snappy shell and a deep chocolatey finish—dark, milk, or semisweet all work beautifully.
- Parchment paper or silicone mat: Not edible, but essential! Keeps clusters from sticking and makes cleanup a total breeze.
How to Make Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters
Step 1: Portion the Golden Grahams
Start by lining a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, which keeps your clusters from sticking and makes transferring them a snap. Measure out the Golden Grahams into 24 even little piles right on your baking sheet. Spacing them out now will give each cluster its own little stage for maximum flavor and minimum mess.
Step 2: Add the Marshmallows
Top each cereal pile with about three mini marshmallows. This extra step ensures every bite delivers that gooey marshmallow magic. Don’t worry if your marshmallows aren’t perfectly placed—they’ll stick together wonderfully once the caramel goes on.
Step 3: Warm the Caramel Dip
Slightly warm your caramel dip to loosen it up, just enough so it’s easy to spoon yet remains thick and spreadable. A few seconds in the microwave or a warm water bath will do the trick. This will help you generously drape each mound in luscious caramel without it running everywhere.
Step 4: Glue It All Together with Caramel
Now comes the gooey fun: spoon about one tablespoon of warm caramel right atop each pile. The caramel acts as the “glue,” enveloping the cereal and marshmallows into one cohesive, chewy treat. Repeat with all the clusters, ensuring they’re well-covered but not swimming in caramel.
Step 5: Freeze the Clusters
Pop your whole pan into the freezer for at least one hour. This firming step helps the caramel set, making each cluster easy to lift off the sheet and dip later. If you’re in a hurry, even 45 minutes works, as long as the caramel is no longer sticky to the touch.
Step 6: Melt the Dipping Chocolate
While your clusters chill, melt the dipping chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir every 20–30 seconds so it’s smooth and glossy, being careful not to scorch it. Follow the package instructions for best results, and have your setup ready for the dipping fun ahead!
Step 7: Dip Each Cluster in Chocolate
Using a fork or a small spatula, dip each frosty cluster into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Let the excess drip off, then place them back on the prepared sheet. Watching that glossy shell form is deeply satisfying—and a big part of what makes these Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters so irresistible!
Step 8: Set and Serve
Once all the clusters are beautifully enrobed, let them sit until the chocolate sets. You can speed things along by putting the pan back in the freezer for just 10–15 minutes. That’s it—you’re ready to experience homemade s’mores bliss in a completely new way!
How to Serve Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters
Garnishes
If you want to elevate your Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters even more, try a delicate drizzle of white chocolate, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or a dusting of crushed graham crackers on top before the chocolate sets. Each garnish adds a hint of flair and extra flavor, making these already-amazing clusters even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Pairing these clusters is all about balancing richness. Try serving with fresh strawberries or a tangy fruit salad—the tartness complements the clusters beautifully. For a cozy evening, a mug of hot cocoa or coffee makes the perfect pairing, enhancing the chocolatey experience while keeping the s’mores theme strong.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifting, arrange Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters in cute mini cupcake liners, stack them in mason jars with a ribbon, or pile them high on a rustic wooden platter. They’re also perfect tucked into gift boxes or layered with parchment for a homemade touch. No matter your presentation, they’re sure to steal the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They actually get even better after a day or two as the flavors mingle and the texture softens just slightly. If your kitchen runs warm, keep them in the fridge to maintain the chocolate shell.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the clusters in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
While you don’t need to reheat these treats, if you adore ultra-gooey marshmallow, you can microwave a cluster for about five seconds—just long enough to soften things a bit. Be careful, as the chocolate and caramel can heat up quickly!
FAQs
Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought dip?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade caramel, feel free to use it. Just make sure it’s thick enough to “glue” the clusters together without running everywhere, and cool it slightly before assembling.
What kind of chocolate is best for dipping?
It’s totally up to your preference—semisweet, dark, or milk chocolate all work wonderfully for Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters. Dipping chocolate or melting wafers are easiest for a snappy, glossy shell, but you can also melt chocolate chips with a bit of coconut oil if you like.
How do I prevent the clusters from sticking to the pan?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This nonstick surface makes lifting and dipping the clusters effortless and avoids a sticky mess later on.
Are there nut-free or gluten-free options?
Definitely! Golden Grahams are not gluten free, but you can substitute your favorite gluten-free graham cereal or crackers. All the main ingredients are nut-free, but always check labels if allergies are a concern. You can also experiment with plant-based caramel or chocolate for dietary needs.
Can these be made in advance for parties or gifts?
They’re perfect for making ahead! Assemble and dip the clusters a day or two before your event. Store them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh and delicious—great for party trays or sweet homemade presents.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters is so much easier (and more fun!) than you might think, and every bite tastes like a celebration. Whether you’re craving a quick treat, prepping party snacks, or looking to wow friends and family with a homemade edible gift, these clusters deliver every time. Don’t just take my word for it—give them a try, and watch them disappear!
Print
Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 clusters 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Copycat Costco Caramel S’mores Clusters are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of golden grahams cereal, mini marshmallows, caramel dip, and dipping chocolate. Perfect for any sweet craving!
Ingredients
Golden Grahams Cereal:
- 3 cups
Mini Marshmallows:
- 1 1/2 cups
Caramel Dip:
- 1 1/2 cups
Dipping Chocolate:
- 10 oz (bag)
Instructions
- Prepare Golden Grahams: Portion out the Golden Grahams cereal into 24 portions on a lined cookie sheet.
- Add Marshmallows: Place 3 marshmallows onto each portion of Golden Grahams.
- Warm Caramel Dip: Slightly warm the caramel dip for easy stirring, then spoon 1 tbsp onto each serving of Golden Grahams and marshmallows, using it to stick them together. Repeat for all servings.
- Freeze: Place the pan in the freezer for about an hour until the caramel sets.
- Melt Chocolate: Melt the dipping chocolate following package instructions.
- Dip Clusters: Dip each s’mores cluster into the melted chocolate, coating them completely. Set them back on the pan to set up.
- Repeat and Serve: Repeat the coating process for all clusters. Enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize these clusters by adding nuts or drizzling with extra caramel or chocolate.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing, Melting, Dipping
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cluster
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Costco, Copycat Recipe, S’mores Clusters, Dessert, Snack, Caramel, Chocolate
