If there’s one treat that instantly sparks warm memories of camping trips and cozy nights around a fire, it’s the classic s’more. This simple dessert (just marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers) has been popping up everywhere—at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, and even fancy dinner soirees.
However, consumers no longer have to make a campfire to enjoy s’ mores. They can now make this awesome snack in the comfort of their homes with a s’ mores maker. This creates the perfect opportunity for retailers to step in and offer these consumers what they need to make their favorite snack.
But like every other cooking item, s’more makers come in many variations. So, how do retailers pick the right models to stock? This article discusses the must-have features, safety considerations, and marketing angles to consider to select the best options in 2025.
Table of Contents
Why s’mores makers are hot right now
6 things to consider before stocking smores makers
1. Fuel type: Electric vs. gel vs. canned heat
2. Size
3. Materials and build quality
4. Don’t skimp on safety
5. Heat control and user-friendliness
6. Boost sales with accessories
Wrapping up
Why s’mores makers are hot right now
Before we dive into the different types of s’mores makers, let’s step back and see why they’re such a big hit. Beyond their longtime association with childhood campfires, s’mores have recently gotten a boost from social media. Half the fun of s’mores is watching that marshmallow turn golden (or charred, if that’s more their style). Capturing that gooey chocolate drip in a quick video or photo is a recipe for viral success.
Here’s a quick look at their stats: searches for s’mores makers saw a huge increase in January 2025, reaching 40,500 from an average of 5,400 the previous year—an amazing 250% surge. And it’s not just families with kids who are interested. Adults who want a fun, interactive dessert for their dinner parties love the idea, too—especially if it means no more messing with a big backyard fire or rummaging for firewood.
6 things to consider before stocking smores makers
1. Fuel type: Electric vs. gel vs. canned heat
Electric s’mores makers
These models are typically the simplest option. Consumers just plug them in and wait for the heating element to do its thing—there’s no separate fuel to buy or store. Electric s’mores makers also tend to be kid-friendly because there’s no open flame.
However, some customers will say it’s less “authentic.” Also, if the wattage isn’t high enough, they might not get that classic toasty brown on their marshmallows.
Retailer angle: Emphasize safety and ease of use for families. Also, point out that there’s no ongoing cost for gel or canned fuel.
Gel fuel s’mores makers
Gel fuel models create a real flame that feels like a mini campfire. They are also generally clean-burning and don’t add weird flavors. However, consumers will need separate fuel canisters, an added cost many won’t like. Some folks also worry about the flame if they have little kids running around.
Retailer angle: Promote this model using the “campfire experience” angle. If you carry gel fuel refills, that’s an extra sale waiting to happen.
Sterno or other canned heat
Canned heat options (such as Sterno) are widely recognized in catering or buffet setups. Like gel fuel, they produce a flame that brings an authentic roasting vibe. Nevertheless, they have the same safety and storage concerns as gel fuel—plus, some people don’t like dealing with flames indoors.
Retailer angle: Highlight familiarity and trust. Professionals always use Sterno, so remind consumers that if they handle it responsibly, it’s perfectly fine at home.
2. Size
Some s’mores makers are small enough to tuck away in a kitchen drawer when you’re done. Others are more like a party centerpiece, complete with multiple ingredient compartments.
- Compact models are great for buyers with smaller kitchens or who want something super easy to store. Most compact models are light and often feature trays consumers can take apart for easy storage.
- Family- or party-sized: These often have multiple sections for marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers, and extra skewers to keep everyone happy. They take up more space but are a hit for big gatherings.
A helpful hint for retailers is to carry at least one compact option for the space-conscious shopper and one bigger model for those who love to entertain. This will allow you to appeal to both ends of the market.
3. Materials and build quality
When looking at different s’mores makers, retailers will spot a few primary materials:
- Ceramic or porcelain: These are often stylish and good at retaining heat. However, remember to tell consumers to handle them carefully because they can chip or crack if knocked over.
- Stainless steel: These models are durable, easy to clean, and typically heat up quickly. However, users must monitor the temperature of the exterior.
- Mixed materials: Some designs combine a metal burner with ceramic trays for a more upscale look.
Retailer tip: Mention any dishwasher-safe or easy-to-clean features. People love hearing they won’t have to scrub marshmallow goo for an hour after dessert.
4. Don’t skimp on safety
Safety is a top priority, especially for families with younger kids. So, keep an eye out for:
- Flame guards to help keep fingers (and anything else) away from direct contact.
- Cool-touch bases. Nobody wants to burn themselves while moving the unit accidentally.
- Stable, weighted designs to reduce the chance of tipping over.
- Auto shut-off (electric models). A built-in safety measure that’s always a big selling point.
Ensure your packaging or product descriptions highlight these safety elements. If you can calmly address a parent’s biggest worry—“Is this going to burn my house down?”—you’ll win their trust (and likely their purchase).
5. Heat control and user-friendliness
S’ mores fans have different preferences. Some love a lightly toasted edge, while others want their marshmallows to look like they survived a minor explosion. A s’ mores maker with adjustable heat settings (electric dial or an adjustable flame for gel/canned heat) can handle both extremes.
- For electric models, a wattage control or similar dial can tweak how quickly marshmallows toast.
- Adjusting the distance between the flame and the marshmallow (or tweaking the canister’s flame height) can be just as important for flame-based units.
Retailer idea: Create an in-store or online display showing marshmallows in various stages of toastiness, from golden brown to “charcoal city.” This is a simple but effective way to showcase the product’s range.
6. Boost sales with accessories
Sometimes, it’s not just the main product that sells. All the extras also help round out the experience. Consider adding the following accessories to your store:
- Reusable skewers: Stainless steel or bamboo skewers can be a nice add-on.
- S’mores ingredient kits include a cute package of graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate. They’re perfect for gift-giving or as a one-stop shop.
- Storage bins or trays: A decorative tray that keeps everything neatly in one place is functional and appealing.
Tip for retailers: Position these accessories right next to the s’mores makers—whether in-store or suggested as “frequently bought together” items online. People are more likely to throw them in the cart if they’re convenient to grab.
Wrapping up
At first glance, a s’mores maker might seem like a niche gadget. But look deeper, and you’ll see how it ties together nostalgia, social bonding, and sweet indulgence—all in one compact device. Choose your inventory wisely by covering different fuel types, sizes, price ranges, and safety features. That way, you’ll have something to offer every s’mores lover who walks in (or browses your website).
