The ooey, gooey goodness of a perfectly roasted marshmallow and a chunk of chocolate sandwiched between graham crackers is a delicacy that often evokes wonderful memories of childhood summers past. But who said s’mores are only for kids? Jodi Wegge, Group Sales Manager at Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge in the Brainerd Lakes Area of Minnesota, has some fun, non-traditional, and delicious ideas for teambuilding activities involving these decadent treats.
IDEA 1 — The Classic
A fire, s’more fixins’, and a lake are all you need for a great teambuilding activity. Add a guitarist playing campfire sing-along songs and it becomes magic.
If it rains, don’t stress. Move the party inside and use food safe, indoor Sternos to toast your marshmallows.
IDEA 2 — Iron Chef - S’mores Edition
The old tried-and-true s’more is spectacularly tasty, but we’re adults here, and there is a world of flavors beyond the basics. Go next level.
Put out an assortment of ingredients and let your crew create to their heart’s content. Or, form teams and compete to see who can produce the perfect s’more. You’ll be surprised how much fun you’ll have. And win or lose, you get to eat crazy, good s’mores.
Try a variety of cookies instead of graham crackers (fudge striped cookies are my favorite.) Or, if you’re adventurous, try donuts, Rice Crispy bars, or cupcakes.
There are endless substitutes for the classic Hershey bar, including a variety of Ghirardelli squares, peanut butter cups, or peppermint patties. Those who don’t mind throwing caution to the wind could try a brownie, peanut butter, Nutella or gasp…bacon!!!
It’s not a s’more without a marshmallow, but not all marshmallows are created equal. Use the best. I recommend Minnesota’s own North Mallow Artisan Marshmallows as a fantastic substitute for the traditional. These all-natural, no-preservative nuggets of deliciousness come in three flavors – vanilla, caramel swirl, and chocolate. As a bonus, they are gluten-free, and because they contain no high fructose corn syrup, they won’t catch fire.
IDEA 3 — S’mores Cruises
The only thing better than s’mores by a bonfire is s’mores on a boat. I know what you’re thinking --you can’t have a bonfire on a boat! Of course not, but you can have the next best thing--s’mores in a glass.
Before you load up the crew and head out on the pontoon for a relaxing spin around the island, have your team make a delicious s’mores drink.
Here’s the recipe for a classic. In a mason jar, combine:
• 3 Tbsp crushed graham crackers
• A small handful of mini marshmallows
• 4-6 toasted marshmallows
• 3-4 Tbsp of chocolate sauce
• Cream Liqueur
You can substitute marshmallow-flavored vodka for cream liqueur. For non-drinkers, substitute hot cocoa.