Experience the nostalgic joy of a classic campfire treat reimagined into a delightful portable dessert! These S’mores Cupcakes are packed with all the beloved flavors – rich chocolate cake, crunchy graham crackers, and gooey toasted marshmallows – making them an irresistible twist on a traditional favorite.
Ultimate S’mores Cupcakes: Your Favorite Campfire Treat in a Portable Form
Summer often brings to mind cozy evenings spent around a crackling campfire, where the comforting ritual of roasting marshmallows and assembling classic s’mores creates lasting memories. But what if you could capture that exact essence – the perfect harmony of melted chocolate, fluffy marshmallow, and crisp graham cracker – and enjoy it without the need for an outdoor adventure? Look no further than these sensational S’mores Cupcakes! They encapsulate every cherished flavor of your beloved outdoor treat, transformed into an elegant yet playful cupcake, perfect for any occasion.
This recipe thoughtfully elevates a simple boxed chocolate cake mix into a surprisingly gourmet delight. Each cupcake begins with a firm, buttery graham cracker crust, providing that essential s’mores base. This is then layered with a moist and flavorful chocolate cake, creating a substantial and satisfying foundation. The crowning glory is a cloud of homemade marshmallow chocolate buttercream, light, airy, and bursting with sweet, cocoa goodness. For the final touch, each cupcake is beautifully adorned with a scattering of crushed graham crackers and, the pièce de résistance, a perfectly golden-brown toasted marshmallow. These S’mores Cupcakes aren’t just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavor and a delightful way to bring the magic of the campfire right into your kitchen, any time of year.
Why These S’mores Cupcakes Are an Absolute Must-Try
Beyond their undeniable deliciousness, these S’mores Cupcakes offer a myriad of reasons to become your new go-to dessert:
- Campfire-Free Enjoyment: Relish the authentic s’mores experience anytime, anywhere. No need to worry about building a fire, finding sticks, or dealing with smoky clothes. They’re ideal for urban dwellers, apartment living, or those days when the weather just isn’t cooperating for an outdoor bonfire.
- Effortless Preparation: Beginning with a convenient boxed cake mix streamlines the baking process, making this recipe approachable and enjoyable for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. It cuts down on prep time without compromising on flavor.
- Perfectly Portioned & Portable: Each cupcake is a self-contained serving of s’mores bliss. This makes them incredibly convenient for sharing at parties, packing for picnics, taking to potlucks, or simply enjoying as an individual treat without any sticky mess.
- Universal Appeal: The familiar and deeply loved combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker ensures these cupcakes will be an instant hit. They appeal to both nostalgic adults and excited children, guaranteeing smiles all around.
- Elevated Classic: This recipe takes the simple charm of a traditional s’more and transforms it into a more refined, yet equally fun, dessert. It’s a fantastic way to impress guests with a treat that feels both classic and innovative.
- Customization Opportunities: While the recipe is fantastic as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate cake, vary the intensity of your marshmallow toasting, or even explore alternative topping ideas to suit your personal taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crafting S’mores Cupcakes
To ensure your S’mores Cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, we’ve compiled answers to some common inquiries:
Which type of chocolate cake mix is best suited for this recipe?
I typically opt for a Devil’s Food cake mix, as its rich and intense chocolate flavor wonderfully complements the sweetness of the marshmallow. However, the beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! You can certainly use any chocolate cake mix you prefer. Whether it’s a classic milk chocolate, a decadent chocolate fudge, or a luxurious triple chocolate mix, choose the one that you and your family enjoy most. The goal is a delicious, moist chocolate base that pairs well with the other s’mores components.
Can I use my own homemade chocolate cake recipe instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! If you have a tried-and-true chocolate cake recipe that you adore, feel free to substitute it for the box mix. Simply prepare your scratch-made chocolate cake batter according to your recipe’s instructions, then follow our guide for integrating it with the graham cracker crust and baking the cupcakes. Using a homemade cake will add an extra layer of personalized charm and flavor to your S’mores Cupcakes, making them even more special.
Are these S’mores Cupcakes adaptable for mini sizes?
Indeed! Mini S’mores Cupcakes are a delightful option for bite-sized treats and party platters. When making mini versions, reduce the amount of graham cracker crust mixture to approximately 1-2 teaspoons per mini cupcake liner. It’s crucial to adjust the baking time significantly as well; mini cupcakes typically bake much faster, usually requiring only about 15-19 minutes. Keep a close watch on them to prevent overbaking and ensure they remain moist.
Can I use store-bought canned frosting to save time?
For those times when you need a quick shortcut, canned chocolate frosting can definitely be used. To infuse it with that distinctive s’mores marshmallow essence and achieve a lighter, fluffier texture, I highly recommend whipping the canned chocolate frosting with about one cup of marshmallow fluff. Beat them together until the mixture is light, airy, and smooth. This simple step will elevate your store-bought frosting, making it taste much closer to a homemade marshmallow buttercream.
Where can I purchase the square marshmallows often seen in S’mores Cupcake photos?
The square marshmallows, often branded as “Smash Mallows” or similar gourmet types, have become increasingly popular and are now quite accessible. I’ve found them readily available at most major grocery stores, particularly in larger chains and superstores like Walmart, usually in the baking or candy aisle. For broader selection or if local stores don’t carry them, you can also easily order them online from retailers such as Amazon, ensuring you get exactly what you need for that perfect aesthetic.
How can I toast the marshmallows if I don’t own a kitchen torch or heat gun?
No specialized equipment is needed to achieve beautifully toasted marshmallows! Your oven’s broiler is an excellent alternative. Simply arrange the marshmallows on a baking sheet and place them under the broiler. It is absolutely vital to watch them continuously and very closely, as they can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. As soon as they reach your desired level of golden toastiness, remove them immediately. Using parchment paper or a non-stick baking sheet is advisable to prevent them from sticking if they get overly gooey.
What is the best way to store leftover S’mores Cupcakes?
To maintain their freshness and flavor, store your S’mores Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature. They will typically remain delicious for 4 to 5 days. If you plan to make them further in advance, you can bake the cupcakes (without frosting or decorating) and freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply transfer them from the freezer to the countertop to thaw, then proceed with frosting and decorating. It’s generally not recommended to freeze already decorated cupcakes, as the frosting and toasted marshmallows may not retain their optimal texture or appearance upon thawing.
Essential Ingredients for Your Ultimate S’mores Cupcakes
To embark on this delightful baking adventure, gather these key components. Exact measurements can be found in the detailed recipe card below.
- For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- Graham cracker crumbs: Finely crushed, these form the essential crunchy base.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
- Butter: Melted, it binds the crumbs together to create a firm crust.
- For the Chocolate Cake:
- Chocolate cake mix: Your preferred variety (e.g., Devil’s Food, milk chocolate).
- Cake mix ingredients: The specific amounts of eggs, oil, and water as directed on your chosen cake mix box.
- For the Fluffy Chocolate Marshmallow Buttercream:
- Salted butter: At room temperature for easy creaming and a smooth frosting.
- Shortening (Crisco): Contributes to the frosting’s stability and airy, fluffy texture.
- Marshmallow fluff: The star ingredient for that unmistakable s’mores marshmallow flavor and delightful chewiness.
- Powdered sugar: Confectioners sugar, essential for a smooth, sweet, and lump-free buttercream.
- Cocoa powder: Unsweetened, for a rich and deep chocolate flavor in the frosting.
- Milk: Used to adjust the consistency of the buttercream to perfect piping consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances and balances all the sweet flavors in the frosting.
- For Decorating & Topping:
- Additional graham cracker crumbs: For a decorative sprinkle and extra crunch on top.
- Regular-sized marshmallows: To be toasted and placed atop each cupcake, providing the signature s’mores element.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Perfect S’mores Cupcakes
Follow these detailed instructions to create stunning and delicious S’mores Cupcakes that will impress everyone. Remember, preparation is key for a smooth baking process!
1. Prepare Oven and Crust Mixture
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two standard 12-cup cupcake pans with paper liners, as this recipe yields approximately 24 cupcakes. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and the melted butter. Stir these ingredients thoroughly with a spoon or fork until the graham cracker crumbs are evenly moistened and resemble wet sand. This mixture forms the delightful crunchy base for your cupcakes.
2. Form and Bake the Graham Cracker Crusts
Carefully spoon about one tablespoon of the prepared graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each lined cupcake well. Using the back of a spoon, your fingertips, or a small tamper, gently but firmly press the mixture down to create a compact and even flat crust at the base of each liner. Bake these assembled crusts in your preheated oven for precisely 6 minutes. This short baking time helps the crusts set and become sturdy. Once baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pans on a wire rack before proceeding to the next step. A cool crust prevents the cake batter from seeping through.
3. Prepare Your Chocolate Cake Batter
While the graham cracker crusts are cooling down, prepare your chosen chocolate cake mix. Follow the package directions precisely, adding the specified amounts of eggs, oil, and water. Mix the ingredients using an electric mixer until the batter is smooth and any lumps are gone. Be careful not to overmix, as overbeating can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher, less tender cupcake. A well-prepared cake mix will yield a moist and delicious chocolate base for your s’mores creation.
4. Fill Liners and Bake Cupcakes
Once your graham cracker crusts are completely cool to the touch, it’s time to add the cake batter. Carefully fill each cupcake liner, aiming for approximately ¾ full. This ensures that the cupcakes have enough room to rise beautifully without overflowing the liners. Place the filled cupcake pans back into the preheated oven and bake according to the instructions provided on your cake mix box for standard cupcakes, typically around 18-22 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean. Allow the baked cupcakes to cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
5. Prepare the Fluffy Chocolate Marshmallow Frosting
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or using an electric hand mixer), combine the softened salted butter, shortening, and the entire container of marshmallow fluff. Beat these ingredients together on medium-high speed until they are thoroughly combined and visibly lighter in color and texture. Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until just incorporated to avoid a cloud of sugar dust. Finally, mix in the milk and vanilla extract. Increase the speed back to medium-high and whip the mixture for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the buttercream is incredibly light, airy, and wonderfully fluffy. This step is key for that perfect marshmallow cloud effect!
6. Pipe the Buttercream onto Cooled Cupcakes
Transfer your glorious, fluffy chocolate marshmallow buttercream into a piping bag fitted with a large straight piping tip (or any decorative piping tip you prefer for a unique flourish). Once your baked cupcakes have completely cooled down to room temperature – this is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting – pipe a generous swirl of frosting onto each one. Begin piping from the outer edge of the cupcake and spiral inwards, building up a beautiful, lofty peak of frosting. Ensure an even and substantial coating for a balanced flavor in every bite.
7. Add Graham Cracker Crumbs and Toast Marshmallows
To further enhance the s’mores experience, gently sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of graham cracker crumbs evenly over the frosted cupcakes. This adds a delightful textural contrast and an extra layer of graham flavor. For the signature toasted marshmallow topping, arrange your regular-sized marshmallows on a heat-safe surface. Using a kitchen torch or a heat gun, carefully toast the tops of the marshmallows until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and become slightly gooey. If you don’t have a torch, refer to the FAQ section for tips on using your oven’s broiler – but be vigilant!
8. Final Assembly and Savor Every Bite!
With the marshmallows perfectly toasted, carefully place one on top of each frosted cupcake. The slight warmth from the marshmallow might gently melt into the fluffy buttercream, creating an even more irresistible texture combination. Your magnificent S’mores Cupcakes are now complete and ready to be enjoyed! Serve them fresh, gather your loved ones, and prepare to savor every single, decadent bite of this amazing, campfire-inspired dessert. Enjoy the moment!
Expert Tips for S’mores Cupcake Perfection
To ensure your S’mores Cupcakes are nothing short of spectacular, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Achieve Room Temperature for Buttercream: For the smoothest, fluffiest buttercream, it’s absolutely essential that your salted butter and shortening are at true room temperature. This allows them to cream together effortlessly, incorporating air for a light texture and preventing a lumpy frosting.
- Mindful Cake Batter Mixing: Mix your chocolate cake batter only until the ingredients are just combined and smooth. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to a dense, dry, or rubbery cupcake texture rather than the moist crumb we desire.
- Cooling is Crucial: Patience is a virtue in baking! Ensure both your graham cracker crusts and your baked chocolate cupcakes are completely cool before you even think about applying frosting. Applying frosting to warm surfaces will inevitably cause it to melt, resulting in a runny, messy disaster.
- Firm and Even Crusts: When pressing the graham cracker mixture into the liners, make sure it’s packed firmly and evenly. This creates a stable and delicious base that won’t crumble excessively when the cupcake is handled or eaten.
- Vigilant Marshmallow Toasting: Whether you’re using a kitchen torch, a heat gun, or your oven’s broiler, never step away from the marshmallows during the toasting process. They can transform from perfectly golden to charred in seconds. Aim for a light golden-brown color for the best flavor and gooey texture.
- Piping Bag Mastery: If you’re new to using a piping bag, don’t be intimidated! Practice piping a few swirls on a piece of parchment paper or a plate first. You can easily scrape the frosting back into the bag. Also, avoid overfilling your piping bag; fill it about two-thirds full for easier handling and better control.
- Smart Storage Solutions: For optimal texture and appearance, decorated S’mores Cupcakes are best enjoyed within 2-3 days. If you plan to make them significantly ahead of time, bake the cupcakes, let them cool, and freeze them unfrosted. This prevents the frosting from becoming stale or the marshmallows from drying out or becoming chewy.
Creative Variations to Try
While the classic S’mores Cupcake recipe is undeniably a winner, feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize your batch with these exciting variations:
- Experiment with Chocolate Bases: Instead of a standard chocolate cake mix, consider a dark chocolate mix for a deeper, more intense flavor profile. Alternatively, a fudgy brownie mix can create an incredibly dense and decadent s’mores cupcake, offering a different textural experience.
- Elevate Your Marshmallows: Beyond the traditional or square marshmallows, explore gourmet options! Try vanilla bean flavored marshmallows for an added layer of aroma, or even coffee-flavored marshmallows for a sophisticated adult twist. For the ultimate homemade touch, consider making your own marshmallows.
- Decadent Chocolate Drizzle: After frosting and before adding the toasted marshmallow, elevate your cupcakes with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a rich chocolate ganache. This adds another layer of chocolate intensity and a visually appealing finish.
- Introduce Mini Chocolate Chips: For an extra burst of chocolate in every bite, fold a handful of mini chocolate chips directly into your chocolate cake batter before baking. You can also sprinkle them lightly over the frosting before adding the graham cracker crumbs.
- Spiced Graham Cracker Crust: Add a warm and inviting depth of flavor to your graham cracker crust by incorporating a pinch of ground cinnamon or a tiny dash of nutmeg into the crumb mixture. This subtle spice complements the chocolate and marshmallow beautifully.
More Delicious Recipes to Explore
If you absolutely adored these S’mores Cupcakes and are eager for more sweet sensations, be sure to check out these other fantastic treats from our collection:
- Walking S’mores
- S’mores Magic Shell
- No-Bake S’mores Treats
- S’mores Cookie Cups
- Hostess Cupcakes
- Beach Party Cupcakes
- Banana Pudding Cupcakes
- Coca Cola Cupcakes
- Biscoff Cupcakes
S’mores Cupcakes Recipe
A fun twist on a classic, these S’mores Cupcakes are filled with all the flavors of your favorite campfire treat but in cupcake form!
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 24 minutes
Total Time: 54 minutes
Yields: 24 cupcakes
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
For the Cake:
- 15.25 ounce box chocolate cake mix
- Ingredients to make cake mix (eggs, oil, and water, as per package directions)
For the Chocolate Marshmallow Frosting:
- ½ cup salted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup shortening (Crisco)
- 7 ounce container marshmallow fluff (like Jet Puffed)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (confectioners sugar)
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Decorating:
- ¼ cup graham cracker crumbs (additional)
- 24 regular-sized marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two standard 12-cup cupcake pans with paper liners.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Spoon about one tablespoon of the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner. Press it down firmly to create a flat, compact crust.
- Bake the crusts for 6 minutes. Remove from oven and let them cool completely in the pans on a wire rack.
- Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the directions on the box, using the specified amounts of eggs, oil, and water.
- Once the crusts are cool, fill each cupcake liner with chocolate cake batter, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake the cupcakes according to the directions for cupcakes on the cake mix box (typically 18-22 minutes). A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting. In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using an electric hand mixer), combine the softened butter, shortening, and marshmallow fluff. Mix on medium-high speed until well combined and fluffy.
- Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly add in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Mix until just incorporated.
- Stir in the milk and vanilla extract. Increase the speed to medium-high and whip the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Transfer the chocolate marshmallow buttercream into a piping bag fitted with a large straight piping tip (or your preferred tip).
- Pipe the buttercream generously onto each cooled cupcake.
- Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of graham cracker crumbs evenly over the frosted cupcakes.
- Optional: Using a kitchen torch or heat gun, carefully toast the tops of the 24 marshmallows until golden brown. Alternatively, you can use your oven’s broiler (watch very closely!).
- Place one toasted marshmallow on top of each frosted cupcake. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
- You can easily substitute a homemade chocolate cake recipe for the box mix if you prefer.
- For mini cupcakes, use 1-2 teaspoons of crust per liner and reduce baking time to 15-19 minutes.
- To use canned chocolate frosting as a shortcut, simply whip it together with about a cup of marshmallow fluff to achieve a similar flavor and texture.
- Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and decorating. Do not freeze cupcakes that have already been frosted and decorated.
Categories
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Nutrition Information (Estimated Per Serving)
| Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat | Sodium | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 303 kcal | 47 g | 2 g | 14 g | 230 mg | 1 g | 34 g |
Nutritional Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided here is an estimate. It can vary significantly based on the specific brands of ingredients used and exact measurements. If precise nutritional values are important for your dietary needs, we strongly recommend calculating them with your exact ingredients and preferred online nutritional calculator.
Did you bake this delightful S’mores Cupcakes recipe? We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos on Instagram by tagging @thecountrycook and using the hashtag #thecountrycook!