S’mores Cupcakes
If you’re craving a delightful treat that combines the nostalgic flavors of a campfire classic with the comfort of a cupcake, these S’mores Cupcakes are exactly what you need. Imagine soft, moist chocolate cake nestled in a cupcake liner, topped with fluffy marshmallow frosting and a perfect crunch of graham cracker crumbs. It’s a mouthwatering explosion of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker goodness that’s easy to make and guaranteed to bring smiles at any gathering. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is an absolute must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic flavors in a new form: Brings the beloved campfire s’mores into an easy-to-eat cupcake version.
- Perfect balance of textures: Combines moist cake, gooey marshmallow, and crunchy graham crackers for a sensory delight.
- Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples that are easy to find, making this ideal for spontaneous baking sessions.
- Great for any occasion: Elevates parties, picnics, or just your everyday dessert with a fun and flavorful twist.
- Customizable: Ready to adapt to your preferences, whether you want extra chocolate or a lighter frosting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to perfecting your S’mores Cupcakes. Each component plays a key role, from providing the rich chocolate flavor and moist crumb to the signature marshmallow fluff and crunchy graham cracker topping.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the cupcakes and keeps them soft and tender.
- Cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate flavor that’s essential for a true s’mores experience.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Help cupcakes rise perfectly and become fluffy.
- Butter: Creates a rich, moist texture and buttery taste.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes just right without overpowering.
- Eggs: Bind ingredients and add moisture and richness.
- Milk (or buttermilk): Ensures a tender crumb and enhances flavor depth.
- Vanilla extract: Elevates chocolate and marshmallow flavors with warm notes.
- Mini marshmallows or marshmallow fluff: Adds the gooey, melty delight central to s’mores.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide authentic crunch and the classic s’mores taste on top and inside.
- Chocolate chips or chunks: Melt within the cupcakes for extra bursts of chocolate heaven.
Variations for S’mores Cupcakes
One of the best parts about S’mores Cupcakes is how easy it is to tailor them to your tastes or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations to make the recipe your own.
- Peanut butter twist: Add a swirl of peanut butter into the batter for a nutty surprise that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Gluten-free option: Swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend to suit gluten sensitivities without losing texture.
- Vegan adaptation: Use flax eggs, dairy-free milk, and vegan marshmallow fluff to make it plant-based.
- Extra chocolate lover’s: Top the cupcakes with a drizzle of melted chocolate or chocolate ganache alongside the marshmallow.
- Spiced s’mores: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the batter for a subtle warming twist.
How to Make S’mores Cupcakes
Step 1: Prepare Your Batter
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a cupcake tin with paper liners. In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter with sugar until light and fluffy, then beat in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the milk, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips gently for melty pockets inside the cupcakes.
Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling about two-thirds full for room to rise. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 3: Add Marshmallow Topping
For the marshmallow topping, you can use marshmallow fluff or mini marshmallows gently melted on top. If using marshmallow fluff, spread a generous layer atop each cooled cupcake. For melted mini marshmallows, place a handful on each and broil for a minute or two until toasted and gooey, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 4: Garnish with Graham Cracker Crumbs
Sprinkle a generous amount of crushed graham crackers over the marshmallow layer. This adds the signature crunch and ties all the flavors together beautifully.
Pro Tips for Making S’mores Cupcakes
- Use room temperature ingredients: Helps your batter mix evenly for a smooth, consistent texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Keeps cupcakes tender and prevents them from becoming tough.
- Watch marshmallow carefully: Toasting marshmallows is quick so keep an eye to avoid burning.
- Press graham crackers gently: Toasty crumbs work best when sprinkled lightly without crushing too finely.
- Chill frosting if too runny: Pop the marshmallow topping in the fridge briefly if it feels too soft for easy spreading.
How to Serve S’mores Cupcakes
Garnishes
Finish your cupcakes with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a small piece of chocolate on top for an extra visual and flavor boost. Fresh berries can also add a pop of color and a fruity balance to the sweet richness.
Side Dishes
Pair your S’mores Cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple glass of cold milk to complement the chocolate and marshmallow flavors perfectly. For a party, serve alongside fresh fruit skewers or salted nuts to create a delightful dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange cupcakes on a wooden platter decorated with whole graham crackers and chocolate bars to enhance the rustic, campfire vibe. You can even serve mini toasting forks as a fun way for guests to toast their marshmallows on the cupcakes if you’re feeling playful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover S’mores Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigeration is recommended, but be sure to bring cupcakes to room temperature before serving to restore softness.
Freezing
You can freeze cupcakes without frosting for up to three months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw completely before adding marshmallow topping and graham cracker crumbs for the freshest taste.
Reheating
Warm cupcakes briefly in the microwave (about 10-15 seconds) before serving to revive the melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you prefer toasted marshmallows, pop them under a broiler for a few seconds after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use homemade marshmallow fluff for S’mores Cupcakes?
Absolutely! Homemade marshmallow fluff works beautifully and adds a lovely personal touch to your cupcakes, making them taste even more special.
Are S’mores Cupcakes suitable for kids?
Yes, these cupcakes are a kid-friendly dessert packed with familiar flavors kids love, just be sure to check for any food allergies in your group.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Definitely. Using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour ensures delicious cupcakes without gluten.
How long do S’mores Cupcakes stay fresh?
They stay fresh for about two days at room temperature and up to a week refrigerated when stored properly.
Is it possible to make these cupcakes dairy-free?
Yes, swap out butter for a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil and use plant-based milk to make a dairy-free version.
Final Thoughts
These S’mores Cupcakes are more than just a dessert; they are a bite-sized celebration of fond memories and comfort food magic. Warm, gooey, and utterly irresistible, they’re perfect for sharing or treating yourself on any day. Dive in and start baking your batch of these delightful cupcakes—you won’t regret it!
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S’mores Cupcakes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
S’mores Cupcakes combine the nostalgic flavors of the classic campfire treat into a moist chocolate cupcake topped with fluffy marshmallow frosting and crunchy graham cracker crumbs. This easy-to-make dessert offers the perfect balance of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker textures, making it a delightful crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk or buttermilk
Mix-ins and Toppings
- ½ cup chocolate chips or chunks
- Mini marshmallows or marshmallow fluff (for topping)
- ½ cup graham cracker crumbs (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners. In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy, then beat in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the milk, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the chocolate chips for melty pockets inside the cupcakes.
- Bake the Cupcakes: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling them about two-thirds full to allow room to rise. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before adding toppings.
- Add Marshmallow Topping: Spread a generous layer of marshmallow fluff over each cooled cupcake or place mini marshmallows on top and broil for 1-2 minutes until toasted and gooey, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Garnish with Graham Cracker Crumbs: Sprinkle a generous amount of crushed graham crackers over the marshmallow topping to add the signature crunch and tie all flavors together beautifully.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for an even batter and smooth texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes tender.
- Watch marshmallows closely when toasting to avoid burning.
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs gently; avoid crushing them too finely.
- If marshmallow frosting is too runny, chill it briefly in the fridge for easier spreading.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: s'mores, cupcakes, chocolate, marshmallow, graham cracker, dessert, baking, campfire treat
