Today I’m taking a look at a microwave s’mores maker by Prep Solutions to see if it really works. This is a supplement to my video review posted on YouTube.
Where to Purchase
You can pick up the Microwave S’mores maker on Amazon for about $18.
The giveaway mentioned in my YouTube review of this product ended on July 1, 2020.
About the Microwave S’mores Maker
The Progressive Prep Solutions Microwave S’mores Maker makes two s’mores at a time, and there are a variety of other concoctions that can be created with this device. There does not appear to be a dedicated website, although some additional information can be found here.
Claims & Features
- Heats graham crackers, marshmallow, and chocolate evenly
- Makes s’mores in 30 seconds
- BPA free
- Water reservoir ensures even heating
- “Arms” prevent s’mores from falling over
Prep Solutions Microwave S’mores Maker Review
Products typically come across my radar via advertisements, viewer request, or from a vendor asking me to check out their offerings. This microwave s’mores maker, however, was merely discovered while browsing for gifts on Amazon. One look at this odd-looking device, and I knew I had to try it out for myself.
After unpackaging the item I found a relatively simple plastic housing that consists of a platform, two “arms”, and a water reservoir. The instructions state to first fill up the water reservoir with 7 ounces of cold water up to the fill line. Next, one or two graham crackers (or other items, discussed below) are to be placed on the platform, which will serve as the bottom of your s’mores concoction. This is followed by chocolate (I used a single row of a Hershey’s, then a single marshmallow, followed by the final graham cracker on top. The “arms” are lowered onto the stack in order to keep everything in place while cooking.
The next step is to simply place the device in the microwave and cook for 30 seconds. My years of testing iffy microwave gadgets led to a slight sense of nervousness as I awaited the final results. Fortunately, opening the microwave revealed a rather ordinary-looking s’mores creation. The instructions state to press down for a moment before consuming your s’mores, which allows the chocolate to cool slightly.
My first attempt went without a hitch and the s’mores turned out perfectly. My daughter and I ate that first batch and we agreed that they tasted exactly how a s’mores should taste. After that, I decided to try a couple of other recipes listed in the instructions.
The next recipe included Ritz crackers, cheese, and peanut butter. Some might assume they meant peanut butter Ritz crackers, but the recipe reads, “Ritz cracker, cheese, 1 tsp peanut butter, Ritz cracker.” Although this is certainly not something I would have created, it was an interesting idea. The instructions state to empty out the water after every other use, so I didn’t empty the water during this second attempt. After 30 seconds, the cheese had mostly melted all over the platform, although it was salvageable. The taste was interesting, but probably not something I’d eat again. For my final test, I tried out chocolate graham cracker, banana, and marshmallow. This was another interesting flavor, but the purist in me still prefers the original s’mores recipe.
Overall, this simple device worked to quickly create s’mores in the microwave, and I have no major complaints about it. It worked as expected and cleaned up easily. I wouldn’t say it’s made of high quality materials, but that should not be an issue with proper care.
I suggest perusing the numerous comments on Amazon to get a feel for the general consensus regarding this product.
Alternatives
I can’t say I’ve seen anything quite like this s’mores maker, although Sharper Image and Nostalgia both put out another interesting take on the idea. Theirs are a bit more expensive but also can be used as a standalone units.
Your S’mores Maker Reviews
Have you used something like this? Tell me what you think in the comments below.
Children would love this.
It does seem geared toward kids!
Hi james its John from Wichita Jordan sent you a Facebook private message
Great alternative to a campfire!
Yeah like here in Vegas where a fire in June doesn’t sound very appealing!
I know a big kid that would love that. Lol. Not me but my husband. Lol
Us big kids need our toys too!
Looks like a cool item for s’mores and kids would probably have fun with it too!
Yes, even if it’s something that you could do with everyday kitchen items, the cartoonish look to this could encourage kids to participate.
I would guess that you would be able to do that on just a plate
Perhaps that with a cup of water, but this might be more fun?
that would be great for all 7 grandchildren
What does the water do (if anything)?
The instructions didn’t state. I actually did some research on this and placing a cup of water in the microwave is a common practice with certain foods. I’ve read that it absorbs radiation to avoid overheating. I’ve also read that it helps prevent drying out. I’ll defer to anyone who actually knows the answer!
That mayu be correct. I’ve heard that microwaves need moisture to be absorbed and without that moisture it could mess up the oven.
I assume the steam melts the marshmallow & chocolate or it keeps it from burning
Possibly!
This would be great fun for kids visiting Grandma.
Grandmas always have fun things in their kitchen.
Well at least this Grandma does. 8 – )
I enjoy your reviews.
I never buy these gadgets without checking to see if you have reviewed it.
You haven’t steered me wrong yet.
That does seem well-suited to grandmas and grandkids! And thank you! I’m glad you enjoy my reviews!
Lol sorry don’t think I would like the ritz with both peanut butter and cheese lol
It wasn’t as bad as I feared, but I probably won’t try that again.
The item looks great. My daughter would love to have one of these. Being in vegas this time of the year you could leave it on a black surface for a little longer and cook them the same way. I’m is SW Vegas.
We must be neighbors!
I would love to have one…
My 3 kids would live to have that. We eat s’mores all the time.
Seems like the toastyness would be missed
Definitely for s’mores purists.
I’m disabled n can’t sit at a campfire with my Goods this is an awesome alternative
Hi James, Fun review. I make my s’mores in my toaster oven. With a little practice one can get some delicious Browning on the marshmallow.
As to the Curley Wurly bar, they are available in the US but it is hard finding a store willing to stock them. You might ant to locate a “Ladder Bar”. That was another name used for the Marathon Bar/Curly Wurly candy bar.
Thanks for the info. I’ll keep an eye out for the Ladder Bar!
Interested in trying it
Cute item, looks like a cartoon with white gloves on his hands . Like Justin Timberlake’s character on SNL.
Please keep up the great reviews. Very honest and thorough reviews on products, I hate the reviews that just yell at the camera the whole time.
That does look like that character! Very funny! And thanks for the comment!
Hi James! I LoVVVVe your videos! My Grand children would love to make ‘smores with one of these…. How do I sign up for your “giveaway?” as I am on disability and can afford to buy one?
Sarah
[email protected]
P.S I LoVVVVe Progressive Products!
I really want the produce keepers, can you review them too?
Hey Sarah! That giveaway has ended but I will be giving away more stuff soon!