What are the ingredients in S'mores Pop-Tarts?

November 10, 2025 •

2 min read

Over 500 million Pop-Tarts are sold annually, with the S'mores variety being a fan favorite. But beyond the chocolate and marshmallow flavor, many wonder exactly what are the ingredients in S'mores Pop-Tarts that create this nostalgic treat. This article provides a comprehensive look at the specific components used to make this popular toaster pastry.

Quick Summary

A detailed look at the ingredients comprising S'mores Pop-Tarts. The analysis covers the enriched flour crust, the sugar and syrup-based filling, and the various stabilizers and flavorings used to achieve its signature taste.

Key Points

Crust Composition: The graham-cracker-style crust is made from a blend of enriched flour, whole wheat flour, and a mix of soybean and palm oil.
Complex Fillings: The gooey center is created using a combination of sugars (high fructose corn syrup, dextrose), cocoa, and stabilizers.
Contains Beef Gelatin: The product uses beef-derived gelatin to achieve its marshmallow-like texture, which is relevant for dietary considerations.
Allergen Warning: S'mores Pop-Tarts contain wheat, milk, soy, and egg ingredients, so those with related allergies should be cautious.
Preservatives and Additives: To ensure a long shelf life and consistent taste, the pastries contain preservatives like TBHQ and various emulsifiers and stabilizers.
Processed vs. Traditional: The ingredients differ significantly from a traditional campfire s'more, relying on processed components to replicate the classic flavor.

A Closer Look at the S'mores Pop-Tarts Ingredients

S'mores Pop-Tarts are a classic flavor known for their graham-cracker-like crust, gooey marshmallow filling, rich chocolate flavor, and a final layer of sweet frosting. A full ingredient list reveals a complex combination of components that create this distinctive taste and texture. The following sections break down the main ingredient categories.

The Pastry Crust Ingredients

The crust is a formulated dough rather than simple graham crackers, utilizing enriched flour, whole wheat flour, and vegetable oils for texture.

The Chocolate and Marshmallow Filling

The center filling is a manufactured mix of sugars and flavorings, not roasted marshmallows and melted chocolate bars. It includes various sweeteners, cocoa processed with alkali, dairy components, and gelatin to achieve its taste and texture. Kellanova confirms that beef-derived gelatin is used in some markets, making it unsuitable for vegetarians.

The Frosting and Final Touches

The frosting adds more sugar, milk chocolate, and flavors. Ingredients like soy lecithin, xanthan gum, and modified corn starch serve as emulsifiers and stabilizers. Leavening agents like baking soda help the crust rise, and the antioxidant TBHQ is used as a preservative in the oils.

Comparison of S'mores Pop-Tarts Ingredients to Homemade S'mores


Feature	S'mores Pop-Tarts Ingredients	Traditional Homemade S'mores Ingredients
Crust Base	Enriched flour, whole wheat flour, soybean and palm oil.	Graham crackers (whole grain wheat flour, sugar, oil, honey, etc.).
Marshmallow Source	Gelatin, corn syrup, cornstarch, natural & artificial flavors.	Roasted marshmallows (sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, etc.).
Chocolate Source	Cocoa processed with alkali, milk chocolate.	Hershey's milk chocolate bar.
Texture	Soft, baked pastry with a gooey, uniform filling.	Crunchy crackers with a warm, melty, sticky center.
Additives	Contain preservatives (TBHQ), emulsifiers (soy lecithin), and stabilizers (xanthan gum).	Generally contain fewer additives, depending on the marshmallow and cracker brand.
Preparation	Ready-to-eat, or toasted in a toaster or microwave.	Requires assembly and heating over a fire or other heat source.

Potential Allergen Information

S'mores Pop-Tarts contain common allergens including wheat/gluten from the flour, milk from whey and chocolate, soy from oil and lecithin, and egg from dried egg whites. The gelatin is beef-derived.

The Role of Additives

Additives help ensure shelf stability and consistent taste. TBHQ prevents oil rancidity. Natural and artificial flavors mimic the s'mores taste.

Conclusion

S'mores Pop-Tarts contain a complex mix of ingredients, differing significantly from traditional s'mores. The list includes enriched and whole wheat flours, various sugars and syrups, cocoa, whey, and beef gelatin. Preservatives, emulsifiers, and flavors contribute to stability and taste. Understanding these ingredients is important, especially for those with allergies to wheat, milk, soy, egg, or sensitivities regarding gelatin. For a complete list of ingredients, visit the {Link: Kellanova SmartLabel website https://smartlabel.kelloggs.com/}.

Frequently Asked Questions

S'mores Pop-Tarts contain a chocolate filling made from cocoa processed with alkali, as well as milk chocolate.

Yes, S'mores Pop-Tarts contain gelatin, which is used to create the marshmallow-like texture of the filling. In some markets, this is specified as beef-derived gelatin.

No, S'mores Pop-Tarts are not suitable for vegetarians because they contain gelatin, which is an animal-derived ingredient, specifically beef gelatin in certain formulations.

The main allergens in S'mores Pop-Tarts are wheat, milk, soy, and egg. The product's ingredients include enriched flour, milk chocolate, whey, soybean oil, soy lecithin, and dried egg whites.

The graham cracker flavor is achieved by using a combination of whole wheat flour in the crust, along with other ingredients and natural and artificial flavorings that mimic the taste.

TBHQ (tertiary butylhydroquinone) is a commonly used food preservative added to the oils in S'mores Pop-Tarts to prevent spoilage. It is an FDA-approved food additive, but some consumer advocacy groups raise concerns about its use.

S'mores Pop-Tarts use processed ingredients such as enriched flour, corn syrups, and stabilizers to achieve their flavor and long shelf life, whereas a traditional s'more uses simple ingredients like graham crackers, roasted marshmallows, and a chocolate bar.