S’mores Cupcakes

The S’mores Cupcakes are a dreamy twist on the classic campfire treat. Each bite is layered with a buttery graham cracker base, moist chocolate cupcake center, and topped with a cloud of marshmallow frosting that’s lightly toasted to golden perfection.

Whether you’re throwing a summer party, indulging in a late-night sweet tooth, or simply reminiscing about cozy campfires, these cupcakes bring the perfect balance of nostalgia and indulgence. They’re easy enough for beginner bakers, but elegant enough to wow at your next gathering.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the chocolate cupcakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup buttermilk

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup hot water

For the marshmallow frosting:

• 4 large egg whites

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 tsp cream of tartar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.

2. In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Spoon 1 tbsp into each liner and press down firmly. Bake for 5 minutes and remove.

3. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, oil, eggs, vanilla, and sugar. Add dry ingredients and stir until combined.

5. Slowly add hot water, whisking until smooth. Batter will be thin.

6. Pour batter into liners, filling 3/4 full. Bake for 16–18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

7. For frosting, combine egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar in a heatproof bowl. Set over simmering water and whisk constantly until sugar dissolves and mixture reaches 160°F (71°C).

8. Transfer to stand mixer. Beat on high for 5–7 minutes until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla and mix just until incorporated.

9. Pipe frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Toast with a kitchen torch or under the broiler for a few seconds.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes | Total Time: 38 minutes
Kcal: 295 kcal | Servings: 12 cupcakes

S’mores Cupcakes: The Ultimate Campfire-Inspired Dessert

There’s something magical about the nostalgic flavors of a classic s’more. The warm, toasty marshmallow, the gooey melted chocolate, and that perfect crunch of graham cracker, all wrapped together in a bite of childhood joy. But what if you could capture all that goodness in a single, show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion? Introducing the S’mores Cupcake, an elevated twist on a beloved campfire treat that combines the comfort of tradition with the flair of a bakery-style dessert.

Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ, birthday celebration, or simply want to indulge in a rich and flavorful treat, these cupcakes deliver big on taste and presentation. They’re not just cupcakes, they’re a triple-layered flavor experience: starting with a buttery graham cracker crust, followed by a moist and fluffy chocolate cake, and topped with a light and billowy marshmallow frosting that’s beautifully toasted. Each component plays a crucial role in mimicking the iconic s’more, but with a gourmet edge that elevates this dessert to a whole new level.

The Origin of S’mores and Why They Inspire Desserts

The term “s’mores” is a contraction of the phrase “some more,” because once you have one, you just can’t resist another. The original recipe was first published in a 1927 Girl Scouts handbook, and ever since, this gooey treat has been a symbol of summer nights, laughter around the fire, and sweet, simple pleasures.

Over time, the flavors of s’mores have found their way into countless desserts, from cookies and pies to cheesecakes and milkshakes. The reason? The combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker is timeless and universally loved. It taps into something warm and familiar while offering plenty of room for creativity. That’s where S’mores Cupcakes shine, taking everything you love about the classic, and transforming it into a bakery-worthy delight.

Why You’ll Love These S’mores Cupcakes

1. Layers of Texture:
From the slightly crunchy graham cracker crust to the moist chocolate cupcake and fluffy meringue topping, every bite is a textural adventure. That balance is key to making these cupcakes feel indulgent but not overwhelming.

2. Real Marshmallow Frosting:
Unlike using store-bought marshmallows, this recipe features a homemade marshmallow frosting made from whipped egg whites, sugar, and a dash of vanilla. It’s soft, shiny, and perfectly toastable, just like a marshmallow roasted over a fire.

3. Moist Chocolate Cake Base:
The chocolate cupcake portion is made with cocoa powder, buttermilk, and hot water to ensure it’s rich and moist. It holds its own even under the sweetness of the marshmallow topping.

4. Visual Wow Factor:
With the golden-toasted frosting peaks, these cupcakes are a showstopper on any dessert table. They look sophisticated but still playful, a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

5. Easy to Prepare, Easier to Devour:
Even though the result looks like it came from a bakery window, this recipe is surprisingly simple and beginner-friendly. With a few standard ingredients and tools (like a mixer and piping bag), you can recreate this masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredient Highlights and Tips

Graham Cracker Crust
Use finely crushed graham crackers and melted butter, along with a touch of sugar, to create the base. Pressing it firmly into the cupcake liner is essential to keep it compact and allow it to bake into a stable crust. You can experiment with flavored graham crackers, such as cinnamon or honey, for subtle variations.

Chocolate Cupcake Batter
The key to ultra-moist chocolate cupcakes is a balance of acid (buttermilk) and a wet heat source (hot water). The batter may appear runnier than expected, but this ensures a soft, tender crumb. High-quality cocoa powder will intensify the chocolate flavor, so opt for a Dutch-processed cocoa if you want a deeper, less bitter result.

Marshmallow Frosting
This frosting is based on Swiss meringue. Egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar are gently heated over a double boiler until the sugar dissolves, then whipped into stiff peaks. The result is glossy and stable enough to pipe and toast, with none of the stickiness of melted marshmallows. A handheld torch works best for that perfect golden finish, but the broiler in your oven can also be used with careful attention.

Add-Ons and Variations

• Mini Chocolate Chunks: Fold into the batter or sprinkle on top before baking for added texture.

• Peanut Butter: Swirl a small dollop into the batter before baking for a peanut butter s’mores vibe.

• Salted Caramel: Drizzle on top of the finished cupcakes for a rich, buttery contrast to the sweet frosting.

• Graham Topping: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or crumbs over the frosting for visual appeal and added crunch.

Occasion Ideas

S’mores Cupcakes are highly versatile and can be served for many events:

• Summer Picnics: A less messy alternative to classic s’mores.

• Camping-Inspired Birthdays: Bring the campfire to your kitchen.

• Holiday Desserts: A break from the usual pies and cookies.

• Bake Sales: Eye-catching and nostalgic, these cupcakes fly off the table.

• DIY Dessert Bars: Let guests torch their own cupcakes for a fun interactive experience.

You can also bake these in mini cupcake tins for a bite-sized treat or double the batch to serve at large gatherings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Storage: These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, especially the marshmallow frosting. However, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Make Ahead: You can bake the cupcake, and crust layers a day in advance. Store them covered at room temperature and prepare and pipe the frosting just before serving or a few hours ahead.

Pro Tips for Perfect S’mores Cupcakes

• Torching Technique: Hold your kitchen torch about 2–3 inches from the frosting and move in small circles for even browning. Avoid staying in one spot for too long.

• Cool Cupcakes Completely: Don’t frost until the cupcakes are 100% cool, or the heat will melt the meringue.

• Don’t Overmix Batter: Stir just until ingredients are combined to avoid dense or chewy cupcakes.

• Use a Piping Bag for Frosting: For that professional swirl, use a star tip or round tip and pipe high for dramatic effect.

Nutritional Information

Each cupcake is approximately 295 calories, with a balance of carbs, fat, and a bit of protein from the egg whites. While not a “light” dessert, they offer a satisfying treat that’s far less sugary than many store-bought alternatives.

Conclusion

S’mores Cupcakes are the perfect fusion of a classic campfire treat and a gourmet dessert. They’re whimsical yet elegant, nostalgic yet novel. Whether you’re reminiscing about summers past or simply want to impress with something unique, these cupcakes are guaranteed to wow your guests and yourself. From the crunchy graham cracker base to the luscious marshmallow peaks, every layer tells a story of comfort, indulgence, and creativity.

So, fire up your oven, grab that kitchen torch, and get ready to turn simple ingredients into an unforgettable dessert. These cupcakes aren’t just food, they’re an experience.